Tommy Fury opponent Genadij Krajevskij dies aged 37 as tributes pour in
Genadij Krajevskij, a boxer who once fought Tommy Fury, has died at the age of 37.
The Lithuanian boxer, who faced Tommy Fury in November 2020, became a beloved character during his eight-year stretch as a pro fighter.
The British Boxing Board of Control’s Midlands Area Council shared their deepest condolences, stating: “We would like to pass our condolences and thoughts to Genadij Krakevskij’s family and friends at this time.”
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They highlighted how “The Baltic Bomber graced the away corner in the midlands area on numerous occasions. He was always a delight to be around in and out of the ring.”
VIPBoxing Promotions shared their “deep sorrow” when they learned of Krakevskij’s death, acknowledging the privilege of having him on their shows multiple times. His career spanned 76 fights, most recently squaring off against Levi Vaughan in Birmingham in August, reports the Mirror.
Social media has seen fans and clubs alike expressing their sadness, with one fan saying: “Terrible sad news. RIP Genadij Krakevskij a true warrior, and a lovely fella.”
(Image: BT Sport)
Stockbridge Amateur Boxing Club paid their respects, too, labelling him “a proper fighter.”
Krakevskij’s in-ring record belies the significant mark he made on the sport, fondly remembered for his vibrant personality that outshone his fight outcomes. Ring announcer Phil Seymour summed it up by calling him a “great presence at fight shows up and down the country”.
After a hard-fought win against Ryan Broten, the only victory in his pro career, promoters VIP Shows tweeted out footage showing the fighter’s emotional reaction as he celebrated the win. They said: “We had the honour of featuring him in the VIP Shows on multiple occasions. Our videographer, Lee Hogan, was fortunate enough to capture his sole professional victory during his 68th fight on a Frank Duffin show.”
They further added a touching tribute: “This moment was incredibly significant for him, as he conveyed the message ‘Never give up’ to the camera. Rest in peace, Baltic Bomber.”
