The year 2022, would be ending on yet another sad note for boxing. The world of boxing recently woke up to the demise of the veteran referee, Steve Smoger. He was 72. This news comes at a time when the boxing fraternity is still reeling from the passing of another beloved officiator, Mills Lane. With Smoger’s passing leaving a massive void in the world of sports, many notable names took to social media to offer their condolences.
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Smoger was a long-time Atlantic City referee. At the time of his passing, he was suffering from an undisclosed illness. Throughout his illustrious career, Smoger has officiated over 1000 fights. Moreover, 200 of these fights were title fights.
He started his career in the 1970s as the boxing referee and judge for the Police Athletic League.
Happy Birthday to @BoxingHall Ref @SteveSmoger. #HappyBirthday #3rdmaninsidethesquaredcircle #boxing
Smoger then transitioned into refereeing professional bouts in 1984. In 1986 he went on to officiate his first world title fight in South Korea. In fact, he has officiated fights in more states and countries than any other referee in boxing history. And he is widely regarded as one of the most well-traveled referees in boxing. Smoger was also inducted into the boxing hall of fame in 2015.
Outside boxing, he was a longtime member of the Air Force National Reserve.
The boxing world mourns Steve Smoger’s passing
The boxing fraternity and fans were deeply affected by Steve Smoger’s passing. Moreover, a lot of notable names offered condolences to the late veteran.
Rest in peace, Steve Smoger, an exemplary #boxing referee and just a terrific guy. He loved our sport and the people in it and it was reflected in the way he lived and worked. Live every day, friends; it’s a short ride. Heartfelt condolences to the Smoger family. 🙏❤️
RIP to Steve Smoger. Got to work with him on a couple NBC Sports broadcasts last year. Every time we did a Zoom production call he’d show off his Hall of Fame ring. He had a lot of love for the sport but most of all the fighters themselves. He leaves behind a great legacy.
Boxing promoter Lou DiBella, called Smoger an exemplary boxing referee. And mentioned that he was a person who loved and lived the sport of boxing. Meanwhile, the editorial consultant for FOX, Mark Ortega, also offered condolences while also reminiscing about the time they worked together.
RIP to a great referee and a great man. - #rip #stevesmoger #boxing instagram.com/p/CmXZB6nr9LF/…
So sad to hear of Steve Smoger’s death. Terrific person and IMO the best ref in boxing during his time.
RIP. Always loved chatting to Steve.
Similarly, many other notable names also chimed in. And was sure to attest that the veteran referee will be deeply missed.
In the same vein, boxing analyst Corey Erdman shared a picture with Smoger. Moreover, he looked back at the times he got to work with Smoger.
Steve was a legend and will be greatly missed. We had done many, many events together over the years and his energy was always excellent. Rest in Peace to the legendary Steve Smoger 🙏🏻
Another notable name who offered condolences was Jake Paul‘s coach, BJ Flores. He mentioned that the passing of the legendary referee was a major blow to boxing.
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How impressive was Smoger while officiating fights? Let us know in the comments below.