Hedgemon Lewis passes away at 74

Alabama-born Hedgemon Lewis dead at 74

Three-time world welterweight title challenger Hedgemon Lewis (53-7-2) has passed away today at the age of 74.

An elegant, skilled box-puncher, Hedgemon began boxing aged 12, out of the Recreation Center in Detroit, part of the same camp as renowned boxing trainer Emmanuel Steward.

He won the Golden Gloves lightweight title and the welterweight title, before turning pro in 1966.

Managed by January Fighters Incorporated, and also by Eddie Futch, during his decade-long career,  Hedgemon won his first 22 fights.

He fought the cream of the division along the way including Ernie “Indian Red lopez”  Harold Weston, Billy Backus and Carlos Palomino.

Hedgemon lost a close decision when challenging WBC/WBA champion Jose Napoles, and in the return match was stopped.

In his last bout, which was against Briton John H Stracey, at the Empire Pool, Wembley, London he put up a brave fight, but  was also stopped.

John H today paid tribute to Hedgemon saying: “Hedgemon was such a nice man, a very tough opponent and exceptionally clever with his footwork.”

This concluded a magnificent, exciting and memorable career of 53 wins, seven losses and two draws including 26 KO's.

Hedgemon became a much admired trainer working with Eddie Futch and then with Freddie Roach.  He was inducted into the Alabama Boxing Hall of Fame and the California Boxing Hall of Fame.

BNN would like to extend their deepest condolences to Hedgemon's family and friends. A sad time, but such wonderful, vivid and poignant memories of a superb fighter and a marvelous man, which will be cherished forever.

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