Tommy Morrison is past due to being inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame but needs to feature on the ballot to have any chance.
Why ‘The Duke’ doesn’t appear among the legends who can be chosen for the IBHOF honor remains as big a mystery as why Vinny Pazienza hasn’t already been inducted.
Morrison mixed it with the best of his generation and held the title in an era lauded for its depth of talent. However, other forces could be stopping Morrison from featuring despite wife Trisha’s successful campaigning in squashing HIV claims.
If it’s purely down to boxing, as it should be [barring serious criminals], Morrison should feature in the 2025 papers to at least have the chance.
Tony Holden, was played some part in his career, believes Tommy Morrison’s induction is overdue and should be questioned by some of those who are allowed to vote.
“The committee of boxing historians should pursue the induction of Tommy Morrison into the International Boxing Hall of Fame,” said Holden.
“As a heavyweight boxer, Morrison was one of the biggest draws during one of the most exciting decades of heavyweight boxing history. Morrison won the WBO heavyweight championship due to his victory over George Forman. He is known for having one of the most devastating left hooks in boxing history, as demonstrated by the knockout of Razor Ruddock.
“Inextricably linked with the extraordinary heavyweight era of the 1990s, Morrison will always be known as one of history’s most exciting fighters.
“Tommy “The Duke” Morrison belongs in The International Boxing Hall of Fame.”
The Morrison bloodline lives on through Trey and Kenzie Morrison, who have enjoyed big-punching heavyweight careers. Their dad is an icon for his achievements in the ring and his participation in the Rocky franchise as one of the standout characters.
His portrayal of ‘Tommy Gunn’ is gaining traction yearly with a new generation of fans, contributing further to Morrison’s legacy inside and outside the ropes.
If German middleweight Arthur Abraham can make it onto the ballot list [in 2024] for voting purposes, then surely Morrison deserves his spot. No disrespect to Abraham, who enjoyed a solid career, but Morrison’s omission is striking in comparison.
Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, experienced boxing writer, and World Boxing News Editor since 2010. Follow on Twitter @PhilJWBN.
