FORMER super lightweight champion of Guyana, Lennox Beckles, has passed away in Trinidad and Tobago (T&T), the Guyana Boxing Board of Control (GBBC) announced yesterday.

In a statement to the media, GBBC said it “deeply mourns the loss of arguably, one of the most gifted fighters who have ever graced our land”.
His career spanned a period from 1960, when he debuted against David Ralph on September 26 at the GFC ground, to his final fight on May 27, 1979 against Brian Muller, an overseas-based Guyanese, fighting out of the U.S. In the 19 years he compiled a total of 45 fights, which included 34 wins and seven knockouts.

Not known for his punching power, Beckles’ ring craft was similar in style to that of ‘Sugar’ Ray Leonard, Pernell ‘Sweet Pea’ Whitaker and Floyd ‘Money’ Mayweather and had in common with these famous fighters, blistering hand speed and the best footwork ever seen from a Guyanese fighter.

Lennox Beckles epitomised boxing’s nickname “the sweet science”. His mastery of the craft attracted hundreds of spectators every time he fought and he was truly “poetry in emotion”. His extraordinary skill was a source of great national pride to Guyanese boxing enthusiasts and his exploits left an indelible legacy which helped to lay the foundation for the champions who followed.

In conclusion, the statement read; “The Board deeply regrets the passing of this extraordinary talent and son of the soil who passed quietly in Trinidad where he was residing. He will be remembered as an honoured and cherished member of the Guyanese boxing fraternity”.