THE name Lennox Blackmoore will always be remembered when the best pugilists from the Caribbean are being mentioned. Equipped with one of the best defence in the business and counter punching skills to be envied, Blackmoore ruled the regional lightweight division with stern gloves in the 1970s.His record was an excellent 9-1 when the Guyana lightweight champion met Trinidadian Fitzroy Giuseppe on February 8, 1976. Twenty-five years old at the time, the local champion pleased home fans with a dominating display which earned him a TKO victory.
It was the seventh consecutive win for the crafty Blackmoore who only loss at the time came at the hands of `Tiger’ Green in May 1974. Four bouts after the stopping of Giuseppe Blackmoore earned Guyana’s first Commonwealth title.
The Guyanese proved not to be an honourable guest as he whipped Jonathan Dele in his hometown of Lagos, Nigeria in October 1977. Upon his return home the newly crowned Commonwealth champion was feted in unprecedented style and showered with gifts by the Forbes Burnham led government.