Graciano Rocchigiani is dead: The former boxing world champion died in a car accident in Italy on Tuesday – he was only 54 years old. SPOX collects the reactions to Rocky’s death.
Henry Maske (ex-world champion, opposite Brisant): “You wouldn’t believe it, I’m terrible. They were hard fights, but with them mutual respect grew. That’s why it’s all the more shattering and moving that he has to walk like that.”
Dariusz Michalczewski (ex-world champion, opposite picture): “I can’t believe it! He was always the tough guy – and then something like that! On December 8th he was supposed to be my guest of honor at an event in Gdansk. Oh, my God – I’m so sad.”
Wilfried Sauerland (Box-Promoter): “We are dismayed and stunned. We mourn Graciano and are in thoughts with his family, his children and his friends. Rocky has not only shaped our boxing stable with his fights, but has also inspired a large audience with his fights. There have also been some crashes between us, but in the end we have always found a consensus. We’ll miss him very much!”
Bernd Bönte (longtime Klitschko manager, opposite picture): “I am shocked and very sad. I have commented many Rocky fights, Graciano also appreciated as a very good TV expert by my side. We often rubbed ourselves, but he also appreciated a clear edge.”