World Boxing News has been informed of the sad passing of the legendary Bernard Hopkins and Shane Mosely trainer Naazim Richardson.
Richardson, who also coached ex-cruiserweight champion Steve Cunningham, among others, really was a larger-than-life character in the sport.
The Boxing Writers Association of America confirmed the news on Friday.
Naazim Richardson has died
They said: “The BWAA and the boxing community mourn the death of the great Nazim Richardson.
“RIP Brother Nazim, a class man, a great trainer, a tremendous father.”
The Philadelphian was much revered in boxing and one of the most likable people to be around during fight week.
Richardson is probably most famous for being the man who caught Antonio Margarito with plaster in his gloves. This led to a suspension for the Mexican.
A devout Muslim, Richardson suffered a stroke in 2007 but continued to work as best he could alongside Hopkins as ‘The Alien’ made history as the oldest champion of all time.
They also guided Mosley to record-breaking efforts against Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao. Both of which Mosley gave a good account in defeat.
In 2014, Richardson told The Philadelphia Inquirer how boxing had saved him.
“If you had gone back and asked everyone what would happen to me, everyone would pick me to be the one that was dead or in jail,” Richardson said.
Bernard Hopkins
In the same interview, Hopkins said of his great friend: “We feed off each other’s adversity.
“Everyone has a story that could have ended their lives or stopped their careers. But somehow, we found a way not to fall victim to those challenges.
“It’s good to know he’s a fighter, not a quitter.”
At this time, there are few details of how Naazim died. Furthermore, WBN will update in due course.
WBN would like to send our condolences to the family of Naazim Richardson at this time.
WBN Editor Phil Jay has over ten years of boxing news experience. Follow WBN on Facebook @officialworldboxingnews, Instagram, and Twitter @worldboxingnews.