Boxing loses another legend in Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker!
According to Domonique Whitaker, son of four-division Hall of Fame legend Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker has announced the passing of his father on Facebook in the early morning hours of July 15!
Additionally, according to TMZ.com, the legend was a victim of a horrible car accident.
Therefore, we here at 3kingsboxing.com reports with great sadness the surprise passing of one of boxing’s all time greats at the age of 55.
Amateur Career
Before turning pro Whitaker amassed an amateur record of 201-13 in 214 bouts. He cemented his amateur legacy with a gold medal at the 1984 Olympic Games where he defeated Luis Ortiz.
Professional Career
Known as a defensive wizard, Whitaker dazzled fans for 17 years as he would win titles in four different weight classes. He faced some of boxing’s best in James McGuirt, Roger Mayweather, Julio Cesar Chavez Sr, Oscar De La Hoya and Felix Trinidad, to name a few.
The Norfolk, Virginia native is credited as one of the best defensive fighters of all time, with blistering hand-speed and phenomenal footwork that has been rivaled by few if any fighters throughout the history of the sport.
One Of Boxing’s Most Controversial Decisions
In 1993 he would be the underdog in arguably the biggest fight of his career! He traveled to the Alamodome in San Antonio, TX to take on the Mexican legend who at the time had a ridiculous record of 87-0, Julio Cesar Chavez.
He put on one of the best performances of his career in front of thousands of Mexican fans. The slick southpaw virtually dominated the entire fight and had Chavez confused and out-classed.
A performance in which many people thought he clearly won, he was forced to settle with a draw. This result has become one of the most controversial decisions in boxing history and is often referred to as the perfect example of a “robbery!”
After retiring from boxing in 2001, Whitaker was elected to the international boxing hall of fame in 2007 as a first ballot candidate.
We here at 3kingsboxing.com would like to extend our sincere condolences to the family of Pernell Whitaker.
May the champ rest in peace!
By: Jerrell Fletcher
