Boxing world mourn death of Enzo Calzaghe
The BBBofC released the following statement on September 18: "It is with great sadness that the British Boxing Board of Control have learned of the death of Enzo Calzaghe MBE. Enzo was one of British Boxing’s most successful trainers and a unique character who enhanced many young Boxers’ lives. The Board send their condolences to the Calzaghe family."
Enzo Calzaghe MBE was born January 1 1949 and is aged 69. The Italian-born boxing trainer, based in Wales, was father to Joe Calzaghe and head trainer for Team Calzaghe at the Newbridge boxing club. He, along with son Joe, was the founder of Calzaghe Promotions, which led his son through a glittering 46-fight career that saw him win the WBO, WBC and WBA super-middleweight crowns.
He was born and raised in Bancali, a hamlet of Sassari, in the Italian island of Sardinia. Enzo helped Joe retire as Britain’s only undefeated world champion back in 2012. His decision to retire ended a successful partnership with his father and the pair were unbeaten in 18 years together as amateur and professional. He also coached other big names in the sport including Enzo Maccarinelli and Gavin Rees during his long career as a corner man.
Father and son legends Enzo and Joe Calzaghe were the closest team in boxing history. His relationship with his son was very close, but, as a trainer, it was also very different, making him train in the snowy Welsh hills even on Christmas Day, he was once quoted saying, "I was never Joe's father in the ring and that's what made him a champion".