The bell tolls for Arturo “Thunder” Gatti.   He was a legendary blood and guts, old school brawler.  The sport of boxing has never seen a more fierce warrior than Arturo Gatti.  He was the undeniably the most exciting fighter of his generation.  At only thirty-seven years of age his life was taken by another in Brazil on July 11^th.  The murder is still under investigation.

He was a fighter that will always be remembered by fight fans that were lucky enough to witness his lion hearted fighting style.  He held Championship belts multiple times.  He also was involved in an unprecedented FOUR Ring magazine “fight of the year” matches, as well as certainly being a candidate for several others.  He was known for a relentless aggression and amazing ability to comeback when he was seemingly beaten.  This reputation lead referees to allow some of his fights to continue far past the amount of punishment they would allow most, if not all other fighters to endure. This gave him the opportunity to amaze boxing fans time and time again with another patented Gatti comeback.  The way Gatti could lift himself off the canvas, and then deliver a severe beating to his opponent was an awe inspiring sight to see. The man was simply an amazing fighter after he was hurt and hurt bad.  His ability to take punishment while giving it right back; often times with much more damage,  has never been surpassed by any other fighter.

He was so endeared by the boxing world, that often even with a loss his fanfare grew.  This is truly a rare feat in boxing, but with his amazingly exciting style, the fans simply wanted more.  He will most be remember for the legendary trilogy with Mickey Ward.  The fighting style of Ward was very similar to Gatti’s and was tailor made for the fans enjoyment.  After Gatti took two of the three fights against Ward they continued a close friendship that lead to Ward eventually training Gatti for his final fight.  The two fighters will forever be linked to one another for placing their stamp on the boxing world.

Arturo Gatti was a man of great courage, heart, and competitive spirit that will live on in the history of boxing forever.  My all-time favorite fighter will be missed by many, and not soon forgotten for what he gave to fight fans throughout the world.  It sad to hear that the final bell has rang on the life of a true ring warrior, rest in peace Arturo Gatti.

Arturo Gatti Highlight Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKObKLdiSPg

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