Im very thankful for the kind gesture of placing my post regarding Dave Sands in the Aust Boxing Forum. Its a very humbling feeling to aknowledge that another appreciates words written in reference to people we hold in genuine esteem. As mentioned in the post, Johnny Wheeler is a man I miss greatly. His wealth of knowledge was expressed perfectly in his own manner..... with a great sense of humour. Many stories can be told of 'Wheels'.. Although, one particular question he enjoyed asking was, "who is the only man to have been in the ring with Kostya Tszyu on two occassions, yet, had never been hit????".... The answer is the man himself, as referee in the first of, and last professional fistic engagement prior to Tszyu becoming World Champ. Considering Johhny Wheeler faught professionaly on 70+ occassions, its a testament to the difference of the eras. He managed to obtain the Vic Featherweight title, and contested Russell Sands for the National Title. Yet, the most endearing facets of Johnny life, to him, appear to have been the quality time he spent amongst the past/current/future champs, as Referee, judge, friend or informative joker. Johnny was extremely passionate about the Australian fight game, the last man to referee a 15 round professional championship bout, a veteran of 70+ pro. fights, a proud Australian, and above all else..... possibly the most humble man one could ever meet. In closing, the extra few punches delivered by Tszyu on Pedro Sanchez was payback , as far as Johnny was concerned, due to the disgracefulness of Sanchez paradeing around the ring, blabbering bull**** in high volume, during the Australian National Anthem. Onceagain, Johnny did know, as he was the Referee, and chose to allow a few more blows to land.
Top shelf info as usual Flamengo. Though the Aussie boxing scene is proud, it is too small to lose quality people like Johnny Wheeler and expect not to miss them.
