BASSETERRE, St Kitts – St Kitt’s former World Boxing Association lightweight champion Livingston Bramble has reportedly passed away.
According to the United States Virgin Islands Daily News, Bramble, who skyrocketed to fame in the 1980s with thrilling fights against Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, died Saturday at the age of 64.
The cause of death was not publicly disclosed.
Bramble, a Rastafarian, also known as Ras-I Alujah Bramble, was raised in St Croix where his interest in boxing started.
He made a name for himself with back-to-back victories over the relentless Mancini in 1984 and 1985, capturing and successfully defending the WBA lightweight title.
Bramble lost his title to Edwin “El Chapo” Rosario in 1986, and continued to box for more than a decade, but was never able to replicate his early success.
His final record stood at 40 wins, 26 losses and 3 draws, with 25 of his victories coming by knockout.
In a statement, the WBA described Bramble as an “underrated” and “eccentric” fighter.
“Bramble was a true wildcard — an unorthodox fighter whose skill and durability were often underrated. He defended his belt twice, once in a rematch against Mancini and then against Tyrone Crawley,” the statement said.
“Beyond his ability in the ring, Bramble was known for his eccentric personality. A dedicated vegetarian and an avid snake lover, he famously walked to the ring with a live reptile draped around his shoulders, a spectacle that fascinated fight fans.”
CMC
