Remembering Our ‘Enry: A Tribute to Henry Cooper, the Beloved British Heavyweight Legend

The heavyweight division has often been the weight class that births superstars and the most recognisable fighters. We have seen Muhammad Ali, Lennox Lewis, Mike Tyson, and many more create headlines for their ability inside the ring. 

On May 3, 1943, Henry Cooper was born and Our ‘Enry went on to have a brilliant career, which saw him become adored by the British public. Cooper passed away on May 1, 2011, and on the anniversary of his death, Big Fight Weekend wanted to pay homage to the Lambeth-born fighter.

Paying Homage to Henry Cooper

Style of Henry Cooper

Sir Henry Cooper was loved by the British public like no other heavyweight before him. He was not only recognised for his toughness in the ring but was recognised for his life journey from humble beginnings to sharing a ring with Muhammad Ali (then Cassius Clay). Cooper passed away at the age of 76 and Our ‘Enry will forever be remembered.

Read More: Muhammad Ali’s 5 Losses Explained

Cooper’s biggest weapon was that he fought in the orthodox stance despite being left-handed. This stance ensured that opponents were hit with the hardest shot from the front hand. He had a brilliant left jab, which snapped back many opponents’ necks. He was a brave offensive fighter who would take the bout to his opponents. Despite being nearer the cruiserweight mark than a true heavyweight, his fearsome left hook was a fantastic punch that made any opponent wary of him.

1959

The London-born fighter is best known for his two bouts against Muhammad Ali (Cassius Clay in the first fight), but 1959 was a fantastic year for Our ‘Enry as he defeated Brian London to win the British and Commonwealth straps.

Read More: OTD in 1967 Muhammad Ali vs. Zora Folley – The Fight Before the Storm

Following the win against London, he successfully defended his Commonwealth strap against Gawie de Klerk, and again with his British title against Joe Erskine, making it a memorable 1959 for Our ‘Enry.