On Tuesday, July 23rd, ex-welterweight and ex-middleweight champion Emile Griffith passed away in New York. He was 75.
Griffith was the first fighter ever from the U.S. Virgin Islands to ever become a world champion. As an amateur he won the New York Golden Gloves for the 147 pound division in 1958.
His career ended in 1985 and he finished with a record of 85W-24L-2D and recorded 23 KO’s.
Outside of boxing Griffith was known for his sexual preference. He was not gay as many claimed him to be but he was bi-sexual. His sexuality ended up causing someone to nearly beat him to death.
Later in life Griffith suffered from dementia and needed full-time care.
He will be missed and will be one of the most under-rated hall of famers to have ever laced up the gloves.