Sad news for the boxing and sports world Monday morning as Virginia Beach authorities have confirmed the death of former World Champion and boxing legend Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker.
ESPN Boxing analyst and host Max Kellerman made the following remarks on the passing of Whitaker:
On my NY public access TV show “Max on Boxing” (1989-1998), I talked Pernell Whitaker more than any other fighter; it was basically the Pernell Whitaker show. He was the pound for pound best for half a decade, and one of the 3 greatest pure boxers who ever lived. RIP Sweet Pea.
https://twitter.com/maxkellerman/status/1150760857950916609?s=21
Whitaker was a former Olympics and World Champion and regarded as one of the best pound for pound boxers in history. His loss is devastating to the boxing world.
Heartbreaking
Local boxing legend, Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker, dies after being hit by vehicle in Virginia BeachOne of the best ever! RIP Sweet Pea pic.twitter.com/zq2Q2s8e2p
— Charles V Payne (@cvpayne) July 15, 2019
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Whitaker family today.