IT CAN be argued that Michael Benjamin was one of Guyana’s bravest warriors. `Benjie’ would jump into the ring with gusto against a lion just as he would against another human being.

The tenacious, courageous and ferocious warrior had his first pro fight in 1986 at age 20.
Benjamin had only one defeat in 13 fights when he met Frenchman Phillipe Binonte on April 29, 1988 in Cayenne, French Guiana. The Frenchman’s hopes ended in the fourth round as Benjamin won by TKO and improved his record to 13-1.
Three fights earlier Benjamin was crowned Guyana lightweight champion following a win by majority decision over Jeff Roberts.
The stocky boxer added the World Boxing Council Continental Americas lightweight title to his collection when he defeated, via unanimous decision, former World Boxing Association lightweight champion Ernesto Espana of Venezuela. The fight was held in Guyana in August 1988.
Benjamin scaled two divisions and took the local welterweight title following an eighth round TKO of compatriot Barrington Cambridge in May 1990.
Two years later, the orthodox fighter shocked the local boxing fraternity with a stunning fourth-round TKO of skilful Anthony `The Pearl’ Andrews.
He ended a 14-year career in 2000 with 23 victories, eight losses and two draws.