Michael Anthony Parris would retire from boxing without adding a Commonwealth title to his list of achievements. Parris saw his second attempt at a Commonwealth crown go up in smoke when Neil Swain won by TKO in the second round.
The battle for the vacant super bantamweight title was held on April 12, 1995 in Wales, United Kingdom and Parris was at the `ripe’ age of 37.
The Guyanese had first made an attempt at the Commonwealth belt in March 1989. Coming up against Bahamian Ray Minus, Parris went the full 12 rounds but lost via Unanimous Decision.
The diminutive but skillful orthodox boxer created history in 1980 when he won a bronze medal at the Moscow Olympics. The medal remains Guyana’s lone at the Games. Parris made his professional debut in November 1982.
In a 13-year career he fluctuated between the bantamweight and featherweight divisions.
He was crowned national bantamweight champion in November 1983 and would have epic battles with Ronald McBean, Darius Ford, Wayne Smith, Vincent Howard and Anthony `The Pearl’ Andrews, all of whom be fought twice. Glenn Forde is the only opponent he met three times.
Parris had two more fights after meeting Swain then departed the sport. His record includes 17 victories, 10 defeats and two draws.