Best friend pays tribute to Sunderland boxing legend Michael Robinson after sudden death aged 39

Known for his aggressive fighting style with a devastating left hook, just like his hero Mike Tyson, Michael Robinson from Thorney Close became a two-time national champion.

He went on to pass that knowledge to the younger generation when he took over Plains Farm Amateur Boxing Club, even putting his own money into the gym to ensure that bills were paid on time.

Sadly, at the age of 39, Michael passed away suddenly on Monday, February 1, leaving those closest to him heartbroken.

His best friend for more than 30 years, Michael Ross, paid tribute and recalled Michael’s passion for boxing and his successful amateur career.

The 41-year-old said: “He was just obsessed with boxing, you could go round his house on a morning and he would just be sitting in the kitchen eating breakfast while watching an old fight.

"He was the youngest in a boxing family and he really did train with the best, to the point where he became a national champion twice.

"Mike Tyson was his hero and he would fight like him, he had this devastating left hook and was famous for his body shots.”

After becoming a champion, Michael’s career took a different path when he took over Plains Farm Amateur Boxing Club – the same one he fought for in his early career.

Michael added: “He had a particular fighting style, it was aggressive and he bred that into a new, younger generation.

"In doing so, he created a new identity for the club and he was really invested in it. Everything that the club made money wise would be put back in, everything was about improving the gym for the kids he taught.

"Everyone at the club knew he was the boss and they all respected him as he was a really good role model. He could easily take any kid and could mould them into a boxer.

"He was a champion himself and he went on to train champions.”

Michael has created a Go Fund Me page for his best friend’s family, you can view it by clicking here.

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