[ad_1]
Pro-boxer Jimmy Abbott. (Photo by Gallo Images / Avusa)
(Photo by Gallo Images / Avusa)
Former South African heavyweight champion Jimmy Abbott He died at his home in Heidelberg on Sunday night after succumbing to heart failure at the age of 61.
According to Red24, Abbott had “shortness of breath” towards the end of Sunday night and finally succumbed at 8.40 pm.
According to the Heidelberg Volunteer Medics community Facebook page, medical help was called to the site but was unable to rescue the boxing legend.
“Volunteers received a call for an elderly patient with shortness of breath and severe heart failure,” Heidelberg Volunteer Medics posted.
“The volunteers responded immediately [and] assisted on scene. At 8:40 p.m., Jimmy Abbott sadly passed away. It is with great regret that we bid farewell to this great legend. Our thoughts and prayers are with family and friends. “
Abbott, who suffered a stroke in 2013, had been battling health problems in his later years, including three heart attacks.
He will be remembered for, among many memorable fights, knocking out Jeff Ellis in 1978 in just his second professional fight and defeating Kallie Knoetze in 1980 at Ellis Park Tennis Stadium.
Abbott also started his own church, Jimmy Abbott Ministries.
We live in a world where fact and fiction blur
In uncertain times you need journalism you can trust. For only R75 per month, you have access to a world of in-depth analysis, investigative journalism, leading opinions, and a variety of features. Journalism strengthens democracy. Invest in the future today.
