Kevin Barry (boxer)

:For the Irish patriot Kevin Barry, see Kevin Barry

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Kevin Barry (born 10 October 1959 in Christchurch, New Zealand) is a noted New Zealand former boxer, boxing trainer, manager and occasional commentator.

Related Topics:
10 October - 1959 - Christchurch - New Zealand - Boxer

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Barry first rose to prominence in the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles as a contestant in the Light Heavyweight division. He won through to the semi-final, where he faced future three-time world heavyweight champion Evander Holyfield. In a controversial decision, referee Gligorije Novicic of Yugoslavia disqualified a clearly dominant Holyfield for repeatedly hitting on the break. As a result Barry was awarded the silver medal, although he was not permitted to contest the gold medal bout against Yugoslav Anton Josipovic since he had been technically knocked out. After the games Barry was offered a large sum to fight Holyfield, but declined.

Related Topics:
1984 - Olympic Games - Los Angeles - Evander Holyfield - Yugoslavia - Anton Josipovic

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Barry remained involved in boxing and became a trainer. After New Zealand Heavyweight David Tua won bronze at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics, Barry helped persuade him to turn professional, managing Tua from 1992-2003 and acting as his trainer from 2001-3. Under Barry's management Tua became a contender, unsuccessfully challenging heavyweight champion Lennox Lewis in 2000. Barry and Tua parted ways in 2003, and the boxer has been involved in legal disputes with Barry and management partner Martin Pugh (the most recent decision is in Barry and Pugh's favour). In addition Barry has a number of up and coming New Zealand boxers under his guidance.

Related Topics:
David Tua - 1992 - Barcelona - Lennox Lewis - 2000 - 2003

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Barry is married to former New Zealand Olympic gymnast Tanya Moss. He has also been a frequent commentator on New Zealand boxing broadcasts, and is a prominent member of the New Zealand boxing community.

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