The boxing world is mourning the untimely death of the legendary Irish Olympic boxing medalist. He was beloved for his incredible boxing talent and warm, charming personality. After a storied amateur career, he turned pro in 1981. Over the next five years, he captured the Irish bantamweight title and the British flyweight belt, cementing his status as an Irish boxing icon.

After retiring from the ring in 1985, he began a second successful career as a press photographer, working primarily for the Irish News. Even in retirement from boxing, he stayed involved in the sport he loved by serving as a steward for the British Boxing Board of Control. The former British professional champion passed away on Sunday at 63, leaving fans across Ireland, the UK, and the world at large in devastating grief.

The devastating and untimely loss in the Boxing World

He had an illustrious amateur career, winning bronze at the 1978 Commonwealth Games and the 1980 Moscow Olympics. His Olympic medal was historic, as he became the first Irish boxer to medal since 1964. He was also renowned for his photographic work, including a famous image depicting Gerry Conlon’s jubilation with supporters after being freed from wrongful imprisonment in 1989. Over his prolific career, he was on the frontlines documenting major events during the Troubles, the peace process, and political developments in Northern Ireland.

Hugh Russell, affectionately known as “Little Red” for his curly copper hair, was a larger-than-life figure in the boxing community, and his death has left fans devastated. While we grieve, we can also celebrate Russell’s incredible life and career. The memories and awesome achievements of champions like Russell will live on forever. His death reiterates the need to appreciate our heroes and legends while we still can.

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Tributes have poured in from everywhere

The outpouring of grief on social media shows how loved and respected Russell was within the boxing community. Photographer at the Irish News, Belfast, Mal McCann says that he is “Absolutely devastated”.

Fellow Irish Olympic medalist Paddy Barnes called Russell’s passing “a sad, sad day,” adding that Russell was a longtime inspiration for him. BBC Sport posted a video of Barnes, paying tribute to Hugh Russel.

Professional champion Carl Frampton also mourned Russell’s death, calling him “one of the nicest men you could meet.” Russel was known in the community for his amiable nature.

Many fans simply expressed their disbelief at the news. He was still attending fights regularly, always wearing his trademark smile that lit up any room. His talent and generosity made him a popular fixture in the Belfast media scene.

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Numerous individuals shared memories, praise, and condolences about Russell, commemorating his accomplishments and impact. The social media reactions underscore just how respected and well-liked Russell was and how many lives he touched throughout his standout boxing career and time as a photographer. His passing left a void for many who knew him or followed his journey in and out of the ring.

The death of Hugh Russell has dealt a devastating blow to boxing. He was a beloved legend, and it’s hard for fans to accept his sudden passing. Russell achieved so much in boxing and photography, yet surely had much to give the world. RIP Hugh Russel. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone who is affected by the loss of this legend.

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