The boxing world was recently hit with the sad news of the passing of former IBF cruiserweight champion Ricky Parkey at the age of 67. The announcement was made by long-time fight figure Aaron Snowell on his FaceBook page, leading to an outpouring of tributes on the internet. Parkey lost his life after a brief battle with lung cancer, leaving behind a legacy that will never be forgotten.
Hailing from Morristown, Tennessee, Parkey began his professional boxing career in 1981. Despite early setbacks, including losses to future WBA heavyweight champion James “Bonecrusher” Smith and Bobby Jennings, Parkey’s determination and resilience were evident from the start. In 1984, he fought for his first title against Bernard Benton but fell short once again, suffering a defeat via decision.
Despite the challenges he faced, Parkey never let defeats define him. In 1986, he achieved his dream of becoming a world champion by claiming the IBF cruiserweight title with a 10th round TKO victory over Lee Roy Murphy in Italy. Parkey continued to defend his title, showcasing his skill and heart in the ring with a late stoppage win over Chisanda Mutti.
However, Parkey’s reign as champion faced its toughest challenge when he stepped into the ring against Evander Holyfield in a two-belt unification fight in Las Vegas. Despite his best efforts, Parkey was stopped by “The Real Deal,” marking a turning point in his career. Subsequent losses to notable opponents such as Johnny du Plooy, Gary Mason, and Alonso Ratliff signaled a downward spiral for Parkey.
Despite the setbacks towards the end of his career, Parkey’s legacy as a world champion and fierce competitor remains intact. He faced formidable opponents like Dwight Muhammad Qawi and Anaclet Wamba with unwavering determination, highlighting his fighting spirit till the very end. Ricky Parkey may have retired with a modest record of 22-20(16), but his impact on the boxing world is undeniable. Our heartfelt condolences go out to Ricky’s family and friends during this difficult time. May his legacy continue to inspire future generations of fighters.