In 1957, Carmen Basilio won the middleweight championship of the world with a split decision over Sugar Ray Robinson, who is still considered by many experts to be the greatest pound-for-pound fighter of all time. Angelo Dundee was Basilio’s trainer for that fight. I was only 9 at the time, but I remember listening to a live radio broadcast of that fight with my dad.
In 1964, challenger Cassius Clay outboxed heavyweight champion Sonny Liston, who quit after six rounds. Angelo Dundee was Clay’s trainer. I remember listening to the live radio broadcast of that one, too, also with my dad.
In 1981, Sugar Ray Leonard stopped Thomas Hearns in the 14th round of a world welterweight title fight. Angelo Dundee was Leonard’s trainer.
In 1994, George Foreman became the oldest to win the heavyweight title when he knocked out Michael Moorer in the 10th round. Angelo Dundee was Foreman’s trainer, as he had been Ali’s 20 years earlier when Foreman was knocked out in the eighth round in the Rumble in the Jungle.
Dundee trained many other champions, but the sheer historical significance of those mentioned here underscores the sweeping breadth of Dundee’s amazing career and influence.
Dundee died Wednesday at age 90.
Rest in peace, Angelo.
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