Tribute to the “Lioness”
The World of Boxing is opening its arms, to console Lennox Lewis in his time of acute grief, as God opens His arms to embrace and receive the soul of his adored Mother Violet, who has passed away.
A nurse by profession and a mum by instinct, Violet was Lennox`s most fervent supporter. Violet stood by her son was his Champion and shielded him during the troubled part of his childhood. She saw the potential of a superstar discarding the trite Rebel label. She sought work in Canada and brought him over to forever change their combined destinies. He defeated Riddick Bowe in the 1988 Olympics to win the Super Heavyweight Gold Medal and then his fabled pro career spanning 1989-2003. Three times heavyweight champion, twice Lineal Champion and Undisputed Champion.
The One And Only!
Lennox said: “My Mum prays for me before I step into the ring. She prays with me.” Violet smiled as she said: “I am often nervous. But I leave it in God`s hands. I know Lennox will be Ok.”
A strong women in every sense, Violet gave birth to a strapping boy who weighed in at ten pounds and ten ounces! She recalled the doctor who delivered him named him telling her he looked like a Lennox.
Lennox`s ring nickname was The lion. The matron of pride was of course his Mum, The Lioness. After the first fight with Evander Holyfield, she was mighty annoyed with the draw and the judging which led to it. And she spoke plainly to Evander commenting: “I told Evander, Lennox won. Why don`t you say it!? He didn`t say anything. He just smiled.”
Lennox`s Manager in the Little and Large Team Frank Maloney, called on the British Government to instantly sever diplomatic relations with Washington!
After his cut loss to Lennox, Vitali Klitschko, who was healing, was itching for a rematch. But Violet put her foot down to insure her pride and joy retired, healthy and wealthy with the secure love of his family. Richness far beyond financial wealth. Vitali ruefully smiles recalling: “Lennox and I talked for two hours. But his Mum was looking at me all the time, and she decided!”
Fate that both Lennox Mum and his Wife share the same name…Violet. He said: “They are the flowers who decorate my life with love, meaning and motivation.”
When he received his MBE and CBE awards at Buckingham Palace, Mum was dressed to the nines by his side. Together…A TEN!
It is fitting that the most poignanantly heartfelt tribute to the life and joy Violet brought to this world, comes from Lennox himself: “I`ve spent the greater part of my life doing my best to honor my Mother and repay her for the time, love, life and lessons she has given me.
“None of it could have ever been without you. Nor could anything have meant anything without you. I love you Eternally. Rest now.”
Article sponsored by HÖRFA