The boxing community is in mourning with the news of the passing of American former two-time world champion Dwight Muhammad Qawi, who died on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the age of 72. Qawi's death came after a courageous nearly five-year battle with dementia.
Known for his relentless pressure and formidable power, Qawi cemented his legacy across two weight divisions. He first captured the WBC Light Heavyweight Championship in December 1981, securing a dominant ten-round technical knockout over the feisty Matthew Saad Muhammad in Atlantic City. He later added the WBA Cruiserweight Championship to his accolades in July 1985, achieving a knockout victory over Piet Crous in Sun City, South Africa.
One of the defining moments of his illustrious career came in 1986, when he lost his cruiserweight title to the legendary Evander Holyfield in a thrilling 15-round split decision, a bout widely regarded as one of the greatest fights in cruiserweight history.
Qawi retired from professional boxing in 1999, concluding a distinguished 20-year career that spanned from 1978 to 1998. He amassed an impressive record of 41 wins, 11 losses, and 1 draw, with 25 of his victories coming by way of knockout. His remarkable achievements and contributions to the sport were recognized with his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004.
Throughout his career, Qawi faced a who's who of boxing greats, testing his mettle against formidable opponents such as Mike Rossman, Matthew Saad Muhammad, Michael Spinks, Piet Crous, Leon Spinks, Evander Holyfield, Ossie Ocasio, George Foreman, and Robert Daniels, among others.
Rest in peace, champ.
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