The world of boxing was hit hard this past weekend as former boxer, Johnny Tapia, died and Paul Williams had a motorcycle accident that will paralyze him for the rest of his life.
Tapia was found dead in his home in Albuquerque, Arizona Sunday. He was 45 years old.
Tapia won titles in three different weight classes and had a 59-5-2 record as a professional boxer. He had a troubled life, always fighting drug habits and even witnessing the murder of his mother at the age of eight.
His drug issues led him to five near death experiences. He was also suspended from boxing after failing three drug tests.
His style was unique, claming he would not mind other fighters hitting him. He would drop his hands and mockingly stick his head out daring opponents to make contact, but their attempts were futile. He had fast reflexes allowing him to bob and weave, avoiding any contact.
His last fight came in June 2011. He won by unanimous decision.
For Paul Williams, this accident could not come at a worse time. While on his motorcycle, heading to his brother's wedding in Atlanta, Williams lost control of his bike. He flew through the air and landed on his back.
His trainer, George Peterson said Williams had his helmet on. He was told by doctors that Williams will be paralyzed from the waist down and will never be allowed to walk again.
They had scheduled a fight for Williams in September against the junior middleweight champ, Saul "Canelo" Alvarez.
Williams is a southpaw with a 41-2 record. 27 wins were by the way of knockout. With his long but power arms, when Williams landed solid blows, he battered opponents.
Williams began his career as a teen in the year 2000. He went on to win two welterweight titles. He is only 30 years old and had a few years left in his boxing career.
