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Calzaghe family denies Enzo Calzaghe has died but say he is in poor health, asks for privacy

Joe Calzaghe with father and trainer Enzo Calzaghe. Photo credit: Getty Images.

Widespread media reports of the passing of boxing trainer Enzo Calzaghe, 69, have been disputed by his family.

Calzaghe’s niece Carrie Calzaghe wrote on Facebook: “Enzo Calzaghe my uncle, has not passed away, this is false news, he is alive but very poorly.

“Please allow space for our family at this time. He is alive and still fighting. We will keep you posted and let you know how he is doing when we can.

“Please allow and respect our privacy at this time. Thank you. Team Calzaghe. Please share.”

Enzo Calzaghe was born on the island of Sardinia in Italy in 1949. He forged a successful career as a boxing trainer at the Newbridge Boxing Club in Wales, guiding Enzo Maccarinelli, Gavin Rees and Nathan Cleverly to world titles.

But Calzaghe is best remembered for training his son Joe Calzaghe to become the WBO super middleweight champion of the world, a title the ‘Italian Dragon’ defended a remarkable 21 times.

Calzaghe masterminded his son’s extraordinary career that saw him defeat future hall of famers Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr as well as delivering dangerous Dane Mikkel Kessler his first career loss in a world title unification bout. Joe Calzaghe retired undefeated with a record of 46-0 (32) in 2008.

News of coach Calzaghe’s passing triggered a flow of tributes on Twitter.

“Gutted to hear my old pal Enzo Calzaghe has passed away,” wrote former interim WBO super featherweight titleholder Alex Arthur. “Had some great times with him. Devastated for Joe and the boys and the rest of the family.”

Former WBO super featherweight champion Barry Jones said: “Enzo Calzaghe was a superb trainer. That spell when he had Rees, Enzo and Calzaghe as world champions was superb.”

Anthony Crolla, former WBA lightweight champion, added: “Such sad news to hear of the passing of Enzo Calzaghe. Was lucky enough to chat to him a few times, was a great guy. Thoughts and Prayers with all the Calzaghe family. Rest in peace.”

Former world title challenger Gary Lockett said: “Sad news regarding the passing of Enzo Calzaghe. Thoughts and prayers go out to Joe and family.”

Former Welsh football player John Hartson wrote: “Gutted to hear Enzo Calzaghe has passed.. mastered the career of son joe. True gent and a great father and friend. So sorry”

Recently retired super middleweight contender Paul Smith said: “Absolutely gutted to hear the news that Enzo Calzaghe has passed away. A lovely man who achieved the ultimate dream as a trainer in training his son to be one of the best this country has produced. Always had time for a talk and a bit of advice…”

Boxing pundit John Rawling said: “I am hearing Enzo Calzaghe has died. Mad as a hatter. Always great fun and trained one of our very best. My condolences to all the family.”