British boxing legend Alan Minter has sadly died aged 69
News broke on September 10th that British boxing legend Alan Minter had sadly lost his battle with cancer at the age of 69.
Born in Crawley in 1951, Alan Minter was a 1972 Olympic bronze medallist then, as a professional, became the world middleweight champion in 1980.
With an impressive 125 wins in 145 amateur contests, Minter made his pro debut on October 31, 1972 at the age of 21. However, it wasn't the start for which he'd hoped after such an amazing amateur career. 19 fights in and the media had almost written him off as his record stood at 14 wins, four losses and one no-contest. However, he went on to prove the doubters wrong.
That crowning glory of the world title came when Minter had already claimed British and European titles.
It was in March 1980 when Minter made his Las Vegas debut to challenge the reigning WBC, WBA and The Ring Magazine champion, Vito Antuofermo, which ended with a close points win. Second time around, in the rematch, Minter forced his opponent to retire in round eight.
'Boom Boom' Minter was then infamously beaten in three rounds at Wembley Arena by Marvin Hagler, who would go on to become one of the greatest middleweights in boxing history. The event is remebered for the crowd's upset at the result and raucous behaviour afterwards that saw bottles and other objects thrown at the American and his team, who all had to make a very sharp exit out of the arena.
Minter called a halt to his career in 1981 with an impressive 39-9 record and a full and illustrious trophy cabinet.
He died on Wednesday, September 9, after a long battle with cancer.
The British Boxing Board of Control led the tributes with: "The Stewards and staff of the British Boxing Board of Control are very saddened to hear of the passing of Former World Middleweight Champion Alan Minter. Our sincerest condolences are sent to his family at this time."
Sky Sports also paid homage: "Everyone at Sky Sports is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of British boxing great, Alan Minter, aged 69. Alan was an Olympian and unified middleweight champion who shared the ring with some of the very best our sport has ever seen. He'll be thoroughly missed."
Former cruiserweight world champion Enzo Maccarinelli tweeted: "So sad to hear the news Alan minter has passed away only 69 taken to young."
Close friend of Alan's son, Ross Minter, Spencer Oliver said: " Just heard the very sad news that boxing legend Alan Minter has passed away, one of my childhood hero’s growing up, my thoughts and prays are with the Minter family at this sad time."
BT Sport Boxing added: "British champion. European champion. Undisputed middleweight champion. Everyone at BT Sport is saddened to hear of the passing of British boxing legend and Olympic bronze medallist, Alan Minter."
MTK Global paid their respects: "Everyone at MTK Global sends their thoughts to the friends and family of boxing legend and former unified world champion Alan Minter after he sadly passed away."
Referee Marcus McDonnell said: "Just hearing sad news that Alan Minter has died after a long battle with cancer RIP Champ."
Hennessy Sports spoke: "Truly saddened to hear of the passing today of the great Alan Minter. He was a household name in the Golden Era of boxing. Everyone at Hennessy Sports send their sincere condolences to his family and friends."
The World Boxing Council, of which Alan was a champion, wrote: "The entire family of the World Boxing Council and its President Mauricio Sulaimán, extend their deepest sympathy and condolences to Alan’s family and friends. Rest in peace champion!"
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