Klitschko Conqueror Sanders Dead at 46
Former WBO Heavyweight champion Corrie Sanders was shot and killed during a restaurant robbery this weekend, dying after suffering wounds to the stomach and hand. The South African fan favorite and the one-time conqueror of Wladimir Klitschko was 46 years old.
According to the report, Sanders was attending a family celebration, when a robbery occurred at the restaurant. The suspects fired randomly into the crowd, and Sanders was apparently the only victim.
Sanders is most well known for his stunning 2nd round TKO victory over Wladimir Klitschko in 2003. At the time, Klitschko was in his first reign as a titleholder, having made five straight title defenses since capturing the strap against Chris Byrd.
In his next fight one year later, Sanders dropped the WBO belt to challenge for the vacant WBC title, and lost to Vitali Klitschko by 8th round TKO.
He finished with a career record of 42 (31) -4, retiring in 2008 after a first round KO loss. He also held a win over fellow Klitschko-conqueror Ross Purrity. He lost to Hasim Rahman in 2000 by 7th round TKO.
“The Sniper” will always be remember for chopping down Wladimir and sending shockwaves through the boxing community as a result, and our condolences go out to his family and friends after this seemingly random and senseless act of violence which has cost him his life.
