Top Rank Boxing publicist Lee Samuels announces retirement

Legendary publicist Lee Samuels, who has been with Top Rank Boxing for 40–plus years, recently announced his retirement.

A member of the International Boxing Hall of Fame, Samuels has worked with some of boxing’s very best fighters over his legendary career. Starting with Top Rank back in New Jersey in the early 80’s, he came out to Vegas when the company moved to Nevada, and he has been associated with the company ever since.

Samuels will always be remembered for his contributions to the world of boxing. However, his legacy in the sport, among his friends, co-workers, and associates, will be that of simply one of the nicest men you could hope to meet. Naturally, when his announcement was made public, the love for Lee came fast.

“A true legend in the world of boxing. The Top Rank family thanks Lee for his impact in the sport and the memories he created with staff and fighters” – Top Rank Boxing.

“Truly one of the kindest men I know! Thank you, Lee, for all you’ve done for this sport we love the last forty years. You have a heart of gold” – Crystina Poncher  

“Lee Samuels has always made family and friends a priority, and he has always treated fighters, managers, media, and Top Rank colleagues, as his family and his friends. How great would it be if the Boxing Writers Association of America renamed the "Good Guy" award for him. Thank you, Lee. End of an era” – Fred Sternburg 

“A great friend and great man. Happy Retirement, Lee” – Freddie Roach

“Great guy, great publicist” – Bruce Trampler

“Super nice guy. Very respectful and professional with all media”- Hugo Acosta

“Lee helped publicize the first boxing shows on ESPN. He was one of the key guys to Top Rank’s successful run with the four kings – Leonard, Hearns, Hagler and Duran. He was so close with Marvin Hagler. But, let’s be honest, anyone who knew Lee loved him” – Kevin Iole

“I have never met a better human than Lee Samuels. A boxing legend. Here’s to one amazing career” – Evan Korn.

“Wishing my long-time friend best wishes as he retires from Top Rank Boxing. Absolute legend” – Dan Rafael

“Simply a legend in the sport. One of the nicest guys you could meet. What a run. Viva Lee” – Sean Gibbons

“I have had the pleasure of knowing Lee for years. He was there from the early days at Top Rank. One of the nicest guys you could ever meet” – Pete Susens.

“Congratulations Lee. Thank you for 40 years. You are one of my favorite people at Top Rank. Enjoy your retirement brother. God bless you and your family” – Eric Brown.

“Lee was the best to ever do it” - King’s Promotions

“Always a pleasure to see him and talk with him. From all of us at WBC and boxing, Thank you. Enjoy retirement” – Chico Lopez

“The best” – Timothy Bradley Jr.

“Aww Lee, one of the kindest men I have met in the game. It was a pleasure to work alongside you for many, many events. God bless you Lee” – Michelle Joy Phelps

“I have my Top Rank family. I have worked for the best company in the world. I work with the best people. When I think of the great fighters, I have had the pleasure of working with - what a run. Bob Arum and Top Rank, it doesn’t get better than that. I owe everything to Bob. I’ve been very blessed in my career”- Lee Samuels

Congratulations on an amazing career, Lee. Enjoy your retirement. – MaxBoxing