LEGENDARY boxing trainer Tommy Brooks has died aged 71 after a fight with cancer.
Brooks was a national amateur champion in America before turning professional in 1977.
ReutersTommy Brooks and Mike Tyson pictured in 1999[/caption]
He only had a brief boxing career, winning his first seven bouts before losing three on the spin to retire and focus on training fighters.
Brooks shot to recognition as a coach first with Evander Holyfield.
But after Mike Tyson was twice beaten by Holyfield, he also turned to Brooks during his comeback trail.
And Brooks coached Tyson up until his 2002 loss to Lennox Lewis – parting ways afterwards.
Brooks also coached Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko as well as 2008 British Olympic bronze medalist David Price.
But in retirement, the American cornerman fell ill in a battle with cancer and has sadly lost his brave fight.
Hall of Fame promoter Lou DiBella paid tribute, posting: “Got more bad news a little while ago.
“It was just confirmed by his family that esteemed boxing trainer Tommy Brooks died tonight, after having fought a very aggressive cancer.
“Too young. Great boxing man and even better person, 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.”
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