Belfast Boxing Legend Ray Close Dies At 57

Ray Close, the Belfast boxer who came within one judge's scorecard of handing Chris Eubank the first loss of his professional career, has died at the age of 57.

Close fought Eubank for the WBO middleweight title in Glasgow in November 1990, dropping a controversial majority decision after 12 rounds. One judge scored the bout a draw, while the other two sided narrowly with Eubank, who went on to defend the belt 14 times before moving up to super middleweight. The Belfast fighter never got another world title shot but remained a respected figure in Irish boxing.

Close's Legacy In Belfast Boxing

Close compiled a professional record that included wins over domestic-level opposition and near-misses against elite talent. His performance against Eubank, who retired undefeated in world title fights, remains the defining moment of his ring career. BBC Sport first reported the news of his passing.

The circumstances surrounding Close's death have not been disclosed. He was 57.

Source: bbc.co.uk