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Rest In Power: Pernell Whitaker

Mark R. Bacon—Main Event Sports DC

Boxing legend Pernell Whitaker was killed Sunday night after he was hit by a car in Virginia Beach. He was 55. 

It’s reported that officials received a call around 10:04 PM in response to an accident at the intersection  of Northampton Boulevard and Baker Road.  When cops arrived, they located the man who had been hit by a vehicle who was in really bad shape — and that man was Pernell Whitaker. 

Unfortunately, we’re told Whitaker succumbed to his injuries and died. Cops are investigating. Unclear if the driver of the car was arrested but he did stay on the scene to speak with police. It’s NOT a hit and run situation. 

By the way, we’re told the are where Pernell was hit is NOT a popular nightlife area — in other words, it’s not like he was out partying. 

Whitaker (who’s from Virginia) was a BEAST in the ring … winning world titles at 4 different weights — lightweight, light welterweight, welterweight and light middleweight. 

Sweet Pea was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2006 — and is considered by many to be one of the greatest fighters of ALL TIME.  He fought everyone from Oscar De La Hoya to Julio Cesar Chavez — and even though he lost to Oscar and Julio was a draw … many people believe he was ROBBED in both decisions because he clearly won the fights. 

His pro career began in 1984 and spanned all the way through 2001, with an amazing 40-4-1 record including 17 knockouts. He also won a gold medal at the 1984 Olympics in L.A.  

From 1993 to 1997 he was considered the #1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world. Ring Magazine named him the Fight of the Year in 1989.  Whitaker is survived by his 5 children.

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