Floyd Patterson, Joe Louis and the latter day George Foreman, as well as Kostya Tzsyu are all three positive role models.
Ezzard Charles and Jersey Joe Walcott were both gentlemen. They would be considered a bit dull by today's standards, but that's alright.
I admire most ,as boxers,who can step into that ring & give it their all. I don't believe in 'personal role models' however & feel it is a mistake to place athletes on pedestals.
the courage of your convictions: Muhammad Ali idealism and love for children: Ali heroic bravery: Ali a never-quit spirit: Joe Frazier love for and joy in my occupation: Frazier dignity, integrity, gentlemanliness: Alexis Argüello money management and faithfulness to one woman: Larry Holmes toughness, self-confidence, no patience for bull: Holmes learning from mistakes and acquiring a positive personality: George Foreman money making flair: Foreman supporting your country, however imperfect, in a good cause: Joe Louis calm in the storm: Salvador Sánchez; Julio César Chávez masculine elegance: Bob Fitzsimmons; Jack Dempsey respecting the heavyweight championship of the world: Rocky Marciano keeping at a craft till you become a master, a technician, the best in the world, starting from profound self-knowledge: Ali; Kid Gavilán; Sugar Ray Robinson; Willie Pep; Mantequilla Nápoles; Jack Johnson; Gene Tunney. doing things your way and creating something new: Ali how not to screw it up once you've reached the top: Mike Tyson.