Ghanaian boxing legend Azumah Nelson offered a glowing tribute to his former opponent, Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker, following the news of the American’s death after being hit by a vehicle.
Whitaker, widely regarded as the best defensive fighter of all time, retired in 1997 with a professional record of 40-4-1 (17 KOs) and held world titles in four weight divisions.
Nelson, who lost to Whitaker in 1990, praised his fighting style and character: “He’s a good fighter. I liked the way he moves. He’s a great champion.”
Nelson shared that he had tried to secure a rematch, but Whitaker declined, reportedly saying, “It is only a fool who will give you (Nelson) a rematch,” indicating the American did not wish to face Nelson again.
Nelson expressed his shock and sorrow over Whitaker’s passing, lamenting that the champion did not have the chance to train a successor to inherit his unique fighting style and immortalize his memory. Nelson also offered his deep sympathy to Whitaker’s family.
