Hedgemon Lewis obit

 

Hedgemon Lewis passes away

He was not on the list.

Former world title challenger Hedgemon Lewis has passed away at the age of 74. Lewis was a 2-time amateur national champion and a very good pro. He later became an accomplished trainer. His sister Georgia just posted his passing on Facebook. Hedgemon was born in Greensboro, Alabama, and last year was inducted into the Alabama Boxing Hall of Fame in the Amateur Boxer category. He was unable to attend due to health problems, which he had for several years. He compiled a pro record of 53-7-2 with 26 KOs and fought for the world welterweight title three times, losing twice to WBA/WBC champion Jose Napoles, and to WBC champion John Stracey in his final fight. R.I.P.

Lewis was initially taken under the wing of Detroit-based coach Luther Burgess, who presided over his formative boxing years and was later trained by Eddie Futch. Due to Lewis’s exciting style, he soon attracted the attention of Hollywood. His management company consisted of actors and entertainment stars such as Ryan O'Neal, Bill Cosby and Robert Goulet.

Racing through the early part of his career, Lewis was victorious in his first 22 fights. He fought out of Detroit initially, before basing himself in Los Angeles. Establishing himself as one of boxing’s top prospects, Lewis was poised to take on his biggest fight to date, against Ernie ‘Indian Red’ Lopez. In the first 4 rounds, Lewis outclassed his opponent, before Lopez came from behind to win.

Lewis bounced back to win his next five fights, including defeating highly rated contender Oscar "Shotgun" Albarado over ten rounds. This set the stage for a rematch against former foe Ernie Lopez. In a closely fought and exciting contest, Lewis picked up the decision, flooring his opponent in round 4.

Not yet finished with the sport, Lewis became a noted coach and cornerman in the world of boxing. He worked the corners with legendary figures such as Eddie Futch, Thell Torrence and Freddy Roach. He would play a key role as part of Futch’s camp in the epic ‘Thriller in Manila’ fight. Lewis trained fighters until his death. Outside of boxing, he also achieved success in the Los Angeles real estate market. Lewis also appeared as a craps gambler in the Ryan O'Neal 1985 movie, Fever Pitch.