Three-division champion Mike McCallum dies at 68
Jamaican legend Mike “The Body Snatcher” McCallum passed away this past Saturday
Olivia Grange, Jamaica’s Minister of Sport, revealed on Saturday that legendary three-division champion Mike “The Body Snatcher” McCallum passed away at 68 after a sudden bout of illness.
McCallum was, to steal a phrase the PBC broadcasting crew erroneously applied to Caleb Plant, your favorite fighter’s favorite fighter. A marvelous technician with grit and finishing to match, McCallum fought and largely defeated a who’s who of top talent throughout the 80s and 90s. From violent knockouts of Julian Jackson and Donald Curry to thrilling series against elite craftsmen like Sumbu Kalambay and James Toney, McCallum consistently produced classic after classic.
He would ultimately take titles at super welterweight, middleweight, and light heavyweight before hanging up the gloves after decision losses to Roy Jones Jr and the aforementioned Toney.
Even if he never got to share the ring with one of the Four Kings, he was more than vindicated by time; it’s rare to find any aficionado of the sport without a deep appreciation for McCallum’s craft and accomplishments. We wish the best for his friends and family.