Henry Cooper, English boxer and sportscaster (d. 2011)

Sir Henry Cooper, born on 3 May 1934 and passing away on 1 May 2011, was not just a British heavyweight boxer; he was a national icon, affectionately known as "Our 'Enry" by a public who admired his courage, sportsmanship, and humility. His career, spanning from the mid-1950s to the early 1970s, was defined by his powerful left hook, unwavering spirit, and a series of memorable bouts that captivated the nation.

A Storied Career: The Fights That Defined "Our 'Enry"

The Unforgettable Encounters with Muhammad Ali

Perhaps the most indelible moments of Cooper's career came from his two clashes with the legendary Muhammad Ali, then known as Cassius Clay, both of which became part of boxing folklore. Their first encounter, on 18 June 1963 at Wembley Stadium, was a pivotal moment for both men. Clay, a brash and rising American star, was expected to dispatch Cooper easily. However, in a stunning turn of events during the fourth round, Cooper landed his famed "Enry's Hammer" left hook, sending Clay crashing to the canvas. The crowd erupted, believing Cooper was on the verge of an unimaginable victory. Clay was saved by the bell, and a momentary controversy arose as his corner allegedly used smelling salts and delayed the start of the next round. Unfortunately for Cooper, his Achilles' heel – a susceptibility to cuts around the eyes – ultimately proved decisive. Ali, known for his incredible speed and precision, targeted the injury, and the fight was stopped in the fifth round due to a severe gash above Cooper's left eye, preventing him from continuing.

Their rematch on 21 May 1966, held at Arsenal's Highbury Stadium, saw a very different Ali. By then, Clay had embraced Islam, changed his name to Muhammad Ali, and had become the undisputed World Heavyweight Champion, widely regarded as the greatest boxer of his era. Despite a valiant effort, Cooper once again succumbed to Ali's relentless attack, with the fight being stopped in the sixth round due to another incapacitating cut around his eye. While both fights ended in defeat for Cooper, his bravery and the sheer drama of the 1963 bout cemented his place in boxing history and in the hearts of the British public.

Dominance at Home and in Europe

Beyond the Ali bouts, Cooper enjoyed a remarkable career marked by sustained success. He was an undisputed force in British and Commonwealth heavyweight boxing for an impressive twelve years, a testament to his consistency and skill. Furthermore, he held the prestigious European Heavyweight title for three years, showcasing his prowess on a continental stage. These championship reigns underscored his status as a premier heavyweight, a formidable opponent for anyone in his division.

A Controversial End and Enduring Popularity

Cooper retired from professional boxing in 1971 following a loss to Joe Bugner in a fight that many observers and fans felt he had won. The decision was controversial, but Cooper, ever the gentleman, accepted it with grace. His retirement did not diminish his public appeal; if anything, it solidified it. He remained a hugely popular public figure, known for his humility, integrity, and good humour. His affable nature and genuine warmth made him a beloved personality long after his boxing gloves were hung up.

Beyond the Ropes: A Knight and a National Treasure

Sir Henry Cooper's legacy extends far beyond his achievements in the boxing ring. He was twice honoured with the prestigious BBC Sports Personality of the Year award, in 1967 and 1970, an accolade voted for by the public that reflected the deep affection and respect he commanded across the nation. His commitment to charity work and his embodiment of true sportsmanship were eventually recognized by the Crown. In 2000, he received a knighthood for his services to sport and charity, making him the only boxer in the United Kingdom ever to be bestowed with such an honour. This unique distinction truly cemented his status not just as a boxing great, but as a national treasure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sir Henry Cooper

What was Sir Henry Cooper's popular nickname?

He was affectionately known as "Our 'Enry" by the British public, reflecting the widespread admiration and national pride he inspired.

Why is his 1963 fight with Muhammad Ali (then Cassius Clay) so famous?

The fight is famous because Cooper knocked down the rising star Cassius Clay with his powerful "Enry's Hammer" left hook in the fourth round, almost causing a massive upset. Despite losing due to an eye injury, the moment remains iconic in boxing history.

Did Henry Cooper ever become a world heavyweight champion?

No, Sir Henry Cooper held the British, Commonwealth, and European heavyweight titles, but he never won a recognized world heavyweight championship.

What unique distinction did Sir Henry Cooper achieve in British boxing?

Sir Henry Cooper is the only boxer in the United Kingdom to have been awarded a knighthood, receiving the honour in 2000 for his services to sport and charity.

How many times did he fight Muhammad Ali?

Sir Henry Cooper fought Muhammad Ali twice, first in 1963 and then in a rematch in 1966. He lost both contests due to cuts around his eyes.

When did he retire from professional boxing?

He retired from professional boxing in 1971, following a controversial loss to Joe Bugner.