After a morning and early afternoon of confusion on boxing websites and social media outlets, the passing of legendary trainer, Emanuel Steward has been confirmed by members of the Steward family. He was 68.
Friends and colleagues are already issuing statements on the death of the beloved trainer and broadcaster:
Bob Arum: “We are all grieving the passing of our friend Emanuel Steward. His founding and leadership of the Kronk Gym in Detroit was outstanding. His efforts produced many world class fighters and champions including Tommy Hearns, Milt McCrory, Michael Moorer and many more.
“Emanuel Steward always stood for the best that boxing could offer. He will be missed by all of us.”
Wladimir Klitschko: “Boxing has suffered a tremendous loss with the passing of Emanuel Steward.
Vitali and I, along with the entire Team Klitschko, send our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to Emanuel’s family and friends.
It is not often that a person in any line of work gets a chance to work with a legend, well I was privileged enough to work with one for almost a decade.
I will miss our time together. The long talks about boxing, the world, and life itself. Most of all I will miss our friendship.
My team and I will carry on with the goals we had set while Emanuel was with us because that is exactly what Emanuel would have wanted. I know he will be with us in spirit along the way and we will accomplish these goals in his honor.
Rest in peace Emanuel. You will be greatly missed.
Until we meet again my friend.”
Johnathan Banks: “He’s gone, but NEVER will be forgotten. You fought a good fight, you finished your course. With tears I’m saying, R.I.P Emanuel Steward.”
There will surely be many more tributes to come as the boxing world learns of its great loss today. The Boxing Tribune will be posting links to some of the better tributes in our Boxing Buzz section as our way of paying respect to someone who has given so much to the sport.
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