Boxing World Mourns the Loss of British Legend and Gold Medalist at 63

It takes a tremendous amount of bravery and belief in oneself to participate in the sport of boxing. The ability to knock down an opponent while also protecting one’s own head from incoming punches is a display of true courage. While American boxers, such as Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, have a massive following, British boxer Hugh Russell was equally talented in his prime. It is with great sadness that the boxing community mourns the recent passing of Russell, sending shockwaves throughout the world.

The news was broken by sports editor Paul McConville, who paid tribute to the boxer. Upon hearing of Russel’s demise, he said: “Absolutely devastated by the loss of colleague Hugh Russell.” Let us learn more about the daredevil in the article.

More Than Just a Boxer

Hugh Russell won a bronze medal for boxing representing Ireland in the 1980 Olympics.The medal was the country’s only Olympic accolade since 1964. However, Russel was far from done, setting his sights on becoming a double British Champion after dominating the flyweight and bantamweight divisions. He parted ways with boxing around 1985.

The boxer was a hard worker, and his ambition made sure that continued even after his boxing career. The former champion, also known as ‘Little Red,’ switched lanes to become a photographer at Irish News. It is there that he struck up a relationship with McConville as the two would have worked in close quarters.

McConville wrote about Russell: “Champion boxer and top class photographer but a friend and colleague who was always on hand to lend some sage advice or lighten the mood with a wise crack and that cheeky grin. RIP Champ.” Plenty of others sent in a tribute to the British boxing legend.

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Fans Paid Tribute to Hugh Russell

Russel was well loved by many and that showed in the form of reactions and comments from his admirers around the world. Let us look at some of the comments from the post.

Northern Irish boxing great Carl Frampton said, “I’ve just heard the sad news that Hugh Russell passed away. As a BBBoC member and an ex-boxer, he always had the fighters’ best interest at heart.” In their tributes, people remembered Russel as “One of the nicest men you could meet.” They said Russel was a “great ambassador for boxing in Northern Ireland.” Fellow Irish News photographer Mal McCann honored Russell, saying, “Things won’t be the same without you. Rest in peace Champ.”

Russell was a legendary boxer and an award-winning photographer. But over and above this, he was a cherished person in the lives of his family and friends. Those who knew Russell remembered him as an endearing man with a cheeky giggle and a cheery greeting. We wish his loved ones the best as they grieve for the iconic figure.

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