“Prayers Up for a Great Man”: Renowned Boxing Names Join Fans in Wishing for ‘Speedy Recovery’ of Legendary Boxing Analyst Hospitalized in Critical Condition
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The renowned boxing commentator Larry Merchant was urgently admitted to a Los Angeles hospital last night. He is currently under critical care, according to the reports. The 92-year-old experienced a sudden health emergency which led to his hospitalization around 6 p.m. The nature of the health issue remains undisclosed, leaving uncertainties about the cause and prognosis.
This news even had the likes of the legendary boxing promoter Lou DiBella come out in public and express concern for his dear friend. The entire boxing world is currently on the edge of their seats.
Larry Merchant; the life of a boxing analyst
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Larry Merchant held an important role in HBO’s boxing coverage from 1978 until his retirement in 2012. During his tenure, Merchant’s insightful commentary enriched HBO programs such as HBO World Championship Boxing, HBO Boxing After Dark, and various other HBO pay-per-view boxing telecasts. Teaming up with his longtime partner on the microphone, Jim Lampley, Merchant contributed his expert analysis on the sport. It even earned him the accolade of “the greatest television boxing analyst of all time” according to ESPN’s Dan Rafael.
Beyond his commentary, the Brooklyn-born Merchant showcased versatility, serving as a columnist for The Post from 1965-75. He featured in films like ‘Rocky Balboa’ and ‘The Fighter’. Apart from that, he even authored three books, and contributed as a writer to the HBO documentary series ‘Legendary Nights’. Besides his feats, Larry Merchant found himself embroiled in controversy in 2011 when he clashed with boxer Floyd Mayweather.
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During an on-air interview, Mayweather accused Merchant of never giving him “a fair shake.” Mayweather vehemently insisted that HBO should terminate Merchant’s employment. The exchange escalated into an expletive-filled tirade from Mayweather. This prompted Merchant’s bold response: “I wish I was 50 years younger, and I would kick your a**.” So, after such a glorious legacy, the fans were immensely concerned about the status of Merchant.
Fans pray for the betterment of Larry Merchant’s health
The fans wished that Merchant gets well soon. The news was broken by TMZ on X where the fans expressed their concern. So much so that the entire comments section was filled with recovery wishes for the renowned commentator.
Lou DiBella used the post made by TMZ, to send his prayers for his “dear friend” and the legend that Merchant is.
Prayers up for a great man, my dear friend Larry. 🙏🙏🙏 https://t.co/tQtajZl2Om
— Lou DiBella🥊 (@loudibella) December 22, 2023
Another fan stated that it was always a delightful experience to listen to Merchant talk. They are hoping for this health crisis to blow over soon.
Here’s wishing Larry the very best. Always a pleasure to share his company and listen to his laconic insights on air.
— Ian Darke (@IanDarke) December 22, 2023
A renowned producer and writer Curtis Scoon talked about how Larry Merchant appreciated certain fighters, due to which he’s garnered a lot of support from Latino fans.
Larry Merchant has a lot of Latino fans I see. So many prayers going up for him. Not really surprised given Larry’s stance on certain fighters.
— Curtis Scoon (@CurtisScoon) December 23, 2023
A fan talked about how sad this news is, and they also extended their prayers to Merchant’s family and loved ones.
Such very sad news – prayers and thoughts are with this boxing legend and his family 🙏🏽🙏🏽
— Amit Champaneri (@AmitChampaneri1) December 22, 2023
Even the senior writer at Sports Illustrated Chris Mannix tweeted about Larry Merchant’s sickness and hospitalization.
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He remembered the undying legacy of Merchant as a print journalist-turned-analyst.
Larry Merchant is a giant in this industry. Print journalist turned broadcaster turned fearless analyst and interviewer. The gold standard for anyone doing this job. Prayers up for his recovery.
— Chris Mannix (@SIChrisMannix) December 23, 2023
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The fans were almost in tears after they heard the news, and wanted Merchant to come back home stronger and healthier. It was a sad day for boxing but hopefully, there is some light at the end of the tunnel. What are your thoughts about this? Let me know in the comments section.
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Written by:
Edited by:
Arijit Saha
