2009 has been a bad year for boxing. There have been many boxing related deaths including Alexis Arguello who took his own life, and Arturo Gatti who suffered the same fate. Vernon Forrest has now been added to that list.
What Happened to Vernon Forrest?
Vernon was pumping his Jaguar tyres up at a petrol station, who two theives (whose identities aren't known) tried to rob the car. Forrest, possessing a hand gun himself, chased these criminals, but unfortunately for him, they were also armed. Shots were exchanged, and Vernon was shot several times, with at least one bullet in his head which resulted in his death.
He was due to fight Sergio Martinez on August 1st, and apparently, Sergio will not have another opponent on this date.
What Will Vernon Forrest Be Remembered For?
Vernon will be remembered for many things. He was an accomplished amateur, who was the 1991 US Junior Welterweight Champion and won a silver medal in the World Championships that year. Despite being the Gold Medal favourite going into the 1992 Olympic Games, he was eliminated in round one because he had food poisoning. He then turned professional.
He claimed his first 'world' title by defeating Raul Frank in 2001 by unanimous decision to win the IBF welterweight crown. This was his second bout against Frank, as in the first contest, an accidental clash of heads caused the bout to be stopped in round three.
The Forrest vs. Mosley Fights
Perhaps what Forrest is most well known for is his two wins over 'Sugar' Shane Mosley. Despite Mosley being the favourite in both fights, and being considered to be the best fighter in the world, Forrest managed to pull of two unanimous decision wins. These helped contribute to his winning of the 'Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year' award in 2002.
The history between these two fighters didn't stop there though. In the amateurs, to get on the Olympic team, Forrest defeated Mosley. Despite Shane being an all time great, Forrest just seemed to have his number.
The Tail End of a Fantastic Career for Vernon Forrest
After these wins over Mosley, he fought Ricardo Mayorga and got knocked out in round three. This was his first loss, and when he tried to avenge it, he lost again, this time by a controversial majority decision.
He would then take two years off to let injuries heal, and his next big fight was when he captured the WBC light middleweight title from Carlos Baldomir by unanimous decision. This was another high point in his career.
He defended the belt once, but then lost it to Sergio Mora in a very close fight. However, he reclaimed the belt, and consequently died a champion.
Vernon was a fantastic fighter, and his wins over Shane Mosley were outstanding. He will be remembered as one of the good guys of the sport, and hopefully his legacy will live on.
