The WBC reports the sad news that promoter and manager Dennis Rappaport has died as the age of eighty one. Intuative, perceptive, determined, focused, shrewd and a strong negotiator, Dennis was one of a kind. He burst on to the scene in 1976 as a co-manager with Mike Jones. The bemused press dubbed the pair “The Wacko Twins.” In promoting Gerry Cooney, they left no stone unturned or idea on the shelf. There was a method in the tongue in cheek showmanship. Some called it theatrical, others said it was unconventional… and by golly it worked. People opened their eyes and pricked up their ears, Together they also managed Howard Davis Jr, Ronnie Harris and Billy Costello.

 

Dennis also worked with George Foreman, Tim Witherspoon, Trevor Berbick, Tony Tucker and Oleg Maskaev. He also worked with manager Shelly Finkel. Dennis wrote a book entitled "I Am Rappaport."

 

Flamboyant, visionary, but also practical, Dennis was a loyal and steadfast, valued and adored friend to so many. Also a successful businessman, yet  Boxing was his primary work passion. On the internet he would delight in setting exacting brain teasers, delving back into the long and rich archives and traditions of our beloved. Striving for a correct answer was sometimes an odyssey. It was also an education.

 

Some people stand out. Some are outstanding. Dennis was both and then more. Boxing  just won’t be the same without him. With him around, life was never dull. Without Dennis we are most assuredly the poorer, yet his personality and achievements guarantee that he’ll never, ever be forgotten.

 

Boxingtalk joins the WBC in sending its sympathy to the friends and family of Dennis Rappaport.