Boxing Great Vernon " The Viper" Forrest
Gunned down after exchanging gunfire with robber!
According to Atlanta police Monday.
Forrest was a former champ in two weight divisions a task that wasn't easy for Vernon as he was ducked in his early career by other title holders in his division. He was 38 years old and became most notable in his two fights with "Sugar" Shane Mosley by giving Mosley his first loss and then defeating him again in a rematch.
Investigators believe over 20 shots were fired from two guns according to Atlanta police Lt. Keith Meadows. One gun belonging to Forrest was recovered along with a shell casing. Forrest was putting air in his car tires at a gas station when the incident took place, but not much more was released in details. And Police have no new leads. Fulton County medical examiner Michele Stauffenberg had confirmed the autopsy showed Forrest died from "multiple gunshot wounds involving the upper torso and thigh."
Mosley commended Forrest for his boxing talents as well as his positive work in the community. He said in an e-mail quote "I viewed Vernon as a great competitor in the ring and an even greater man outside of the ring," he said in an e-mail. "His philanthropic efforts in his community and his drive to help others were deeply admired," Mosley added. "My thoughts and prayers go out to his family during this very difficult time."
Vernon departs with a still outstanding record of 41-3-29 kos. But the sad thing is he wont live to fight another day. All because of some petty thief who I only hope is brought to justice. The truth is he deserved a better departure than this. And may God be with his family.
So is the old saying death comes in three's true? As Vernon becomes the third former boxing champ to die with the recent deaths of Arturo "Thunder" Gatti and Hall of famer Alexis Arguello. And recent entertainers Ed Mcmahon, Farrah Fawcet and Michael Jackson.
One thing is for sure all of these have left us many memorable moments. And we'll miss their special talents.
Funeral arrangments are yet to be made.
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