Boxing world mourns the passing of Gary Russell Sr.
The boxing world was left reeling at the news of boxing trainer Gary Russell Sr's untimely death on Monday, May 23, aged just 63.
Father of four boxing champions, he had struggled greatly in recent years due to complications with Type 2 diabetes.
Only last December, he had to have his left foot amputated, which hindered his role as a trainer to sons, Gary Russell Jr, Gary Antuanne Russell, Gary Antonio Russell. There is another son, Gary Antonio Jones, who amassed a pro record of 22-2 during 1996-2011, but wasn't trained by his father.
He also had two sons that tragically died before him – Devaun Drayton, a promising amateur, who was murdered at just 17 in Washington DC, and Gary "Boosa" Russell was only 25 when he suffered a heart attack in December 2020.
WBC released this following statement: "The President of the World Boxing Council, Mauricio Sulaimán Saldívar, and the entire WBC Family worldwide, paid tribute to the great man after the death of Gary Russell Sr. due to complications from diabetes.
"Mr. Russell was the trainer of his son Gary, former WBC featherweight champion, as well as his other sons, throughout his amateur and professional career.
"With his love, care help his sons became champions. The zenith of achievement and one of the many things he'll forever be remembered for. A great father and a great man.
"The entire WBC family mourns this irreparable loss, and we send our deepest condolences to the Russell family.
"Rest in peace."
Premier Boxing Champions also paid tribute, "The PBC Family mourns the loss of the patriach of the esteemed Russell family, Mr. Gary Russell Sr. Rest in Peace."
CEO of Mayweather Promotions shared his sentiments, "RIP Mr. Gary Russell Sr. always always been a solid dude. My condolences go out the entire Russell family."
BBN would also like to show their respects to the entire Russell family and friends during this very difficult time.
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