Former world heavyweight champion Gerrie Coetzee who fought Frank Bruno dies

12 January 2023 , 21:31

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Gerrie Coetzee has died, aged 67 (Image: Popperfoto via Getty Images)

Former heavyweight boxing icon Gerrie Coetzee has died at the age of the 67.

The South African giant famously won the world heavyweight title when he beat Michael Dokes in 1983, becoming the first man from his home continent to do so. But he is also remembered on British shores for his battle with Frank Bruno in London three years later, with the home fighter scoring a first round KO victory.

'The Boksburg Bomber', who had been battling cancer before his death was confirmed on Thursday night, finished his professional career with a 33-6-1 record. His initial career ran from 1974 to 1986, but he came out of retirement to have a further bout in 1993, and then two more in 1997.

Tributes have since flooded in, with renowned sports blogger Clinton van der Berg tweeting: "A giant has fallen. The Boksburg Bomber has succumbed to illness. Almost exactly 40 years after his great triumph - winning the WBA heavyweight championship by 10th-round KO against Mike Dokes - Gerrie Coetzee has died aged 67. One of my boyhood heroes. RIP."

South African rugby writer Brendan Nel wrote: "Gerrie Coetzee. A memory from my childhood. 3am get up to watch him box. World heavyweight champ gone. RIP." @JasonSmith_1 added: "Gerrie Coetzee was a great fighter. Loved watching his fights growing up. RIP Champ."

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The official Bok Radio account posted: "The legendary Gerrie Coetzee, SA's very first World Heavyweight Boxing Champion, passed away earlier today. Rest in peace Gerrie. Your name will live on forever. Our deepest sympathy and condolences go out to all his friends and family."

Coetzee throws a left punch against Michael Dokes on the night he became world champion (The Ring Magazine via Getty Images)

Coetzee wrote himself into folklore when he floored Dokes in the 10th round of their clash in Ohio. Four years previously, he'd notched another famous win, keeping his composure against a charging Leon Spinks before stopping the American in the opening round.

His battle with Bruno at Wembley Arena prompted his first retirement though. Billed as a world title eliminator, a powerful early right made for a quick contest, although it would be another nine years before the British hero would gain a world belt of his own.

One of the most remarkable notions about Coetzee's career was it came amid persistent problems, with his right fist subjected to three surgeries in his career. It earned him another nickname, 'The Bionic Hand' from fellow fighters.

Fraser Watson