Pernell 'Sweet Pea' Whitaker dies in an accident in the US

Former boxing champion Pernell 'Sweet Pea' Whitaker has died after being hit by a vehicle in the US.

Social media reacts to the loss of 'Sweet Pea' 📲♥ pic.twitter.com/EtTwhUoDM8

— DAZN USA (@DAZN_USA) July 15, 2019

The 55‑year‑old, who won gold at the Olympics in 1984, was regarded as one of the greatest defensive fighters ever.

Whitaker was a world champion in four divisions ‑ WBC lightweight, IBF light welterweight, WBC welterweight and WBA light middleweight.

I’m truly lost for words to hear Pernell “Sweet Pea” Whitaker is no longer with us. He was a flawless fighter. Condolences to his family. pic.twitter.com/pZZEceN7h2

— Mike Tyson (@MikeTyson) July 15, 2019

The American retired in 2001 before working as a trainer.

He fought as a professional 46 times, winning 40 of those fights ‑ 17 by knockout.

Source: BBC