TOMMY Brooks, former trainer to some of boxing’s biggest names, has passed away at the age of 71.
The Arkansas-born Brooks lost his battle with cancer, as confirmed by promoter Lou DiBella on X earlier today.
“Great boxing man and even better person,” DiBella wrote. “He was just a solid dude.
“Shared many memorable nights with Tommy and his wife, Donna Duva, during the glory days of Main Events. My love and prayers to Donna and all their fam…”
The news comes in the wake of the recent passing of former two-weight world champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi and promoter Don Elbaum. Earlier this year, the sport also lost hall-of-famer Mike McCallum and heavyweight legend George Foreman.
Brooks – one of boxing’s all-time great trainers – carved out an impressive amateur career, which included two victories over Michael Spinks. In 1982, however, he chose to move from the centre of the ring to the corner, dedicating his life to guiding some of the sport’s brightest talents.
“I always say in boxing: I got my AA and BA degrees from Archie Moore, my MA from George Benton, and my PhD from Eddie Futch,” Brooks once told the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame. “And Lou Duva taught me to stand up for your guy. It should be done more often. Fighters get screwed, so you’re just standing up for yourself.”
A look at the fighters Brooks worked with is a clear reminder of how highly his expertise was regarded. Evander Holyfield, Mike Tyson, Mike McCallum, Vinny Pazienza, Freddie Pendleton, and Junior Jones are just some of the world champions who benefited from his wisdom.
Brooks also trained both Klitschko brothers, and worked with British fighters Tony Jeffries and David Price as his career carried into the 21st century.
In 2011, speaking about his role in guiding Jeffries, Brooks said: “I don’t jerk around with people who don’t have a chance. I’m not going to waste my time or their time if they haven’t got it.
“I’m not about doing something just for the money. If I do, I’m doing myself a disservice as well as them. It’s not just about the money.
“He has the potential and the will and ability. He has made all kinds of sacrifices—this kid left Sunderland to come to Los Angeles just to learn. It’s not all about money; it’s about getting to where you need to be.”
Everyone at Boxing News extends heartfelt condolences to the Brooks family and to all those who loved him.
