Rest in Peace Vernon Forrest

Vernon Forrest 1971-2009

As if the untimely passing of Arturo Gatti did not leave all in the boxing world hanging their heads in mournful despair, two division world champion Vernon Forrest, 38, was murdered in Atlanta, GA over the weekend.

Forrest was gunned down by two men who had attempted to steal his Jaguar. Forrest ran after them with his own weapon, in what was an exchange of gun fire, only to be gunned down himself and fatally wounded by two semi-automatic weapons. At this time, police have not found any suspects.

Forrest, who had a professional record of 41-3, 29 KOs, was a fine champion who will best be remembered for his victories in over current welterweight champion Shane Mosley. My memory goes back to the night of Saturday, January 26, 2002 at the Theater in Madison Square Garden when Forrest handed Mosley the first loss of his professional career, a one-sided unanimous decision, in what was a battle of undefeated welterweight champions. Forrest's first win over Mosley is still the most decisive loss Mosley has ever suffered to this day.

Mosley fought Forrest in a return engagement six months later, but Forrest once again emerged victorious with a points win indicating a contest that was closer than their initial encounter. The consecutive wins over Mosley would earn Forrest Ring Magazine's 2002 Fighter of the Year Award. My sympathy goes out to Forrest's family and friends. A class act, both in and out of the ring, Forrest will be dearly missed.

R.I.P. Vernon Forrest.