Remembering a true champion: Ron Stander

Word came today that legendary heavyweight tough guy, Ron “The Bluffs Butcher” Stander had passed away. Ron had been in declining health and passed quietly at home with his long-time love Toddie by his side. Born in Fort Jackson, South Carolina, Ron had made Council Bluffs, Iowa his home and he was a legend there.

Turning pro in 1969, Ron would fight for 13 years and step in the ring 61 times in that span recording a 37-21- 3 (28 KO’s) record. His easy going, laid back southern charm, and razor-sharp wit, belied his almost unfathomable in-ring toughness. Ron became a local legend in Council Bluffs after squaring off in some classic hometown fights, not the least of which was a back-and-forth war with then heavyweight champion Smokin’ Joe Frazier. Stander would challenge Frazier for his WBA and WBC titles in Omaha, Nebraska, just down the road from his Council Bluffs home. Stander had attracted boxing’s heavyweight champion, and boxing’s biggest prize, to Midwest farm country and the locals loved him for it. While Stander, known to friends simply as “Butcher”, had already wowed locals by knocking out Hall of Fame puncher Ernie Shavers in only his 10th pro fight, the give and take war with Frazier cemented his legacy as an all-time heavyweight brawler. Butcher would fight on after and meet the likes of Gerry Coetzee, Ken Norton and James Tillis among other notables in the heavyweight division. A tremendous puncher, who could knock you out cold if he caught you, Stander was indeed as vicious in the ring as he was friendly, laid back and approachable out of it.

Toddy took to social media this morning to announce the passing of her beloved partner Ron.

“The BLUFFS BUTCHER has fought his last round here on earth and WON. As of 5:15 a.m., on this day March 8th, 2022, he is now in the arms of our HEAVENLY FATHER. We all are heartbroken to have to say goodbye to our husband, dad, grandpa our friend. His memory will live on forever. Services are pending. Thanking you in advance for all your prayers as we try to be strong during this most difficult time. GOD BLESS”.

Friends and fans loved the Butcher. He was a legendary tough guy in an era of true tough guys. He was a character through and through. In the ring - fearless and ferocious. Away from the lights - charming, funny and a friend to all who knew him; he will be missed by many.

Toddy, thank you for taking such good care of Ron all these years - you and Ron were indeed a true love story.

On behalf of everyone at MaxBoxing - Rest in peace, Champ! Gone but never forgotten.