DENNIS Andries secured the first draw of his career on November 14, 1978. At the end of the eight-round contest Andries was found equal on points with Englishman Les McAteer, who was a former Commonwealth middleweight champion. It was the fifth victory in six fights for the Guyanese orthodox boxer. Born on November 5, 1953, Andries started professional boxing on May 16, 1978. He became the European light heavyweight champion, the World Boxing Council (WBC) light heavyweight champion and later the Commonwealth cruiserweight champion.
He won the WBC title following a split decision victory over J. B. Williamson on April 30, 1986. Andries made one successful defence before meeting Thomas `Hitman’ Hearns in March 1987.
The `Hitman’ came with only live rounds and grabbed the crown via a 10th round TKO. However, Andries bounced back and was again named WBC champion when he TKOed Tony Willis on February 21, 1989 to take the vacant title.
Although born in Guyana, Andries never fought at home. His career spanned 18 years and Andries had his last fight on December 14, 1996. He left with a record of 49 victories (30 KOs), 14 defeats and two draws.