Emanuel Steward dies at 68
Miguel Cotto (L) listens to Emanuel Steward at media day for Cotto-Ricardo Mayorga fight. (Feb. 22, 2010) Credit: Tom Farina / Top Rank
The boxing world lost one of its most noted and popular figures on Thursday as hall-of-fame trainer and Kronk Gym founder Emanuel Steward (pictured left) died, according to the Detroit Free Press. He was 68.
Steward's sister Diane Steward-Jones told the Free Press Thursday that Steward was in a Chicago hospital recovering from surgery for diverticulitis.
Steward, known for his eye for talent, trained championship fighters Tommy Hearns, Wladimir Klitschko and Hilmer Kenty.
HBO released a statement from sports president Ken Hershman on the passing of Steward, who also served as an analyst for the network.
"There are no adequate words to describe the enormous degree of sadness and loss we feel at HBO Sports with the tragic passing of Manny Steward. For more than a decade Manny was a respected colleague who taught us so much not only about the sweet science but also about friendship and loyalty.
"His energy, enthusiasm, and bright smile were a constant presence. Ten bells do not seem enough to mourn his passing. His contributions to the sport and to HBO will never be forgotten. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."
