Most of you have probably never heard of Dwight Muhammad Qawi.

He passed away a couple of days ago, and here are a few thoughts about him.

Qawi was one of my all-time favorites – an embodiment of bravery, resilience, and sheer will. Despite standing just 5’6″, he fought from light-heavyweight all the way up to heavyweight, and made every inch count. His style was a masterclass in pressure and precision: relentless head movement, airtight defense, a sharp jab, and beautiful combinations.

He learned to box in prison, transformed himself through discipline, and never looked back. From there, he stayed on the straight and narrow, always grateful for the second chance boxing gave him. In interviews, he came across as humble, grounded, and grateful: everything you’d hope a fighter with his past would grow into.

Recommendation: If you’ve never seen Qawi fight, watch the first Dwight Muhammad Qawi vs. Evander Holyfield fight (1986). It’s one of the greatest battles I’ve ever witnessed. Fifteen rounds of non-stop, high-level warfare between two technician-warriors. Trade, feint, slip. Trade, feint, slip. Minimal clinching. No retreat. Just pure skill and heart.

Holyfield, who fought everyone from Tyson to Bowe to Lennox to Foreman has often named Qawi as the best fighter he ever faced. That says everything.

RIP Camden Buzzsaw.

And thank you for the hours of footage, for the inspiration, and for showing us the true spirit of the sweet science. There have been very few like you.