Dennis Milton, the former middleweight title challenger and amateur standout from New York, passed away this morning at the age of 64 on 27/01/26. Milton, who had been living in a rehabilitation center for about a year, passed at about 3 a.m., according to John Zervos, a former New York Police Department officer who now runs a non-profit called Friends of the Champ, which has helped Milton and other boxers who were struggling in their post-boxing lives. Milton, whose pro record was 16-5-1 (5 KOs), had been living in the Forest Houses projects in his home borough of The Bronx, New York up until his health took a turn over the past year. “All I can tell you about Dennis is he was one of the nicest, kindest men that I ever met on this earth,” said Zervos, whose organization held a benefit for Milton last summer. “He was one of the few opponents you could really like/strike a real friendship with,” said Michael Olajide, who lost a split decision to Milton in 1989, in a Facebook comment. Dennis Milton - Wikipedia
Dennis Milton was indeed a notable and decorated amateur, winning four NY Golden Gloves in the open division (junior middle and middle) and taking a silver medal at the Pan Am Games. One of his NYGG finals was a win over Iran Barkley. He also beat Reggie Johnson, Frank Tate and Michael Nunn (x2) in the amateur ranks. As a pro, he earned a title shot with wins over Michael Olajide and Gerald McClellan and ran into Julian Jackson for the championship, losing by quick KO. He lost two more fights in succession and retired. Glad to see he had support to the end. So many do not. RIP, Mr. Milton.
RIP, Champ. Beating McClellan and Olajide in the pros and Nunn and Barkley in the ams is impressive. Condolences to his family and friends.
Very sorry to hear this. RIP Dennis Milton and condolences to friends, family, and fans. He was a excellent boxer.
RIP CHAMP Sad to hear this, Milton was a talented fighter. Getting off the floor to beat a young undefeated McClellan (10-0 with 10 kos) was impressive. Unfortunately everyone only remembers the Julian Jackson fight but he he beat a still tough Robbie Sims (coming off a split decision loss for the WBO title) and Michael Olajide in a controversial fight that ended in a mini riot. Glad to hear that he and Olajide buried the hatchet and became friends.
