Boxer who beat John Fury in title fight dies aged 69 as tributes flood in

manchestereveningnews.co.uk:

A heavyweight boxer who once beat John Fury has passed away at the age of 69. Neil Malpass, who won the Central Area Heavyweight title when he defeated Fury, father of Tyson Fury, on points in a 10-round contest back in 1989, fought 48 times over the course of his professional career, which spanned from 1977 to 1990.

He was one of just four men to have beaten Fury, and the only man who faced the now 59-year-old in a title bout. Tributes have been pouring in for the Yorkshireman on social media since news of his death broke on Thursday, with Doncaster Martial Arts Centre (DMAC), where Malpass worked as a boxing trainer and coach, leading them. "It's such sad news that Neil Malpass, a close friend and trainer at the gym passed away last night," a spokesperson for the gym said. READ MORE: Logan Paul responds to X-rated John Fury fight offer with clear two-word statement READ MORE: John Fury: 'I have family I'll never speak to again because of deceit and backstabbing' "He has coached so many over the years and was a true legend of the sport.

He has been with DMAC since the beginning and coached hundreds over the years on these mats. "He has been an amazing coach and mentor for the younger generation and will be truly missed.

Sincere condolences to his family and friends. RIP Neil." Another tribute branded the former fighter "as tough as teak". "Sad to read of the death of heavyweight contender Neil Malpass at the age of 69," it read. "The tough as teak Yorkshireman shared the ring with the likes of Alfredo Evangelista, Billy Aird, Danny McAlinden, John Fury and Paul Sykes...