By Scott Christ

Bert Cooper, a heavyweight warrior in the 80s and 90s who turned pro in 1984 and last fought in 2012, passed away at the age of 53. BLH sends our condolences to his family and friends.

Over his career, Cooper fought the likes of George Foreman, Ray Mercer, Riddick Bowe, Michael Moorer, Corrie Sanders, Larry Donald, Chris Byrd, and Luis Ortiz. He fought so long that he fought both George Foreman and Luis Ortiz.

His biggest fight came in 1991, when he got a crack at Evander Holyfield and the IBF and WBA titles. He lost, but he damn near got Holyfield, too. His final boxing record was 38-25 (31 KO). He was a journeyman, and he was a real fighter.

Article courtesy of Scott Christ & SB-Nation