Rest in Peace - Tommy Brooks

I just completed a write-up on the passing of legendary New Jersey champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi when the news came that another east coast boxing legend has passed.

Tommy Brooks, who trained an incredible list of fighters throughout his era with Main Event promotions and the Duva family, has passed after a valiant battle with cancer at age 71.

Brooks was a talented amateur, capturing a national title before going pro in 1977. He would fight 10 times (7-3) as a pro before turning his attention to coaching. And what a coaching career it was. Brooks worked with Evander Holyfield, Mike Tyson, and the Klitschko brothers, among many other great champions. 

Close family friend, promoter Lou DiBella confirmed the news of Brooks’ passing on Tuesday, July 29. 

“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 family. This is now a real tough stretch of losing real boxing people. It’s getting to me.”

Another East Coast boxing icon, Staten Island trainer Teddy Atlas, also expressed his sadness at the news.

“I was saddened to hear of the passing of Tommy Brooks. He was a top amateur fighter, trainer and a gentleman who brought class to the sport. R.I.P.”

The boxing community will remember Brooks not only for his coaching acumen but also for his integrity and dedication to developing fighters, both in and out of the ring, as well as his qualities as an athlete and individual, which made him beloved throughout the sport.

Brooks leaves behind an extraordinary legacy in heavyweight boxing and the respect of all who knew him.

Rest in peace, Tommy.

Settings

Independent