Tommy Brooks, one of boxing's most revered trainers and the man behind some of the sport's most iconic moments, has died aged 71.
The legendary coach, best known for guiding champions like Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield, passed away on Tuesday, 29 July 2025, following a battle with an aggressive form of cancer.
The news was shared by Lou DiBella, Hall of Fame boxing promoter, who spoke of Brooks' legacy with admiration and sorrow.
'Got more bad news a little while ago. It was just confirmed by his family that esteemed #boxing trainer Tommy Brooks died tonight, after having fought a very aggressive cancer,' DiBella wrote.
Brooks' impact on the sport extended well beyond the ring. He wasn't just a coach to champions; he was a mentor, technician, and figure of integrity in a profession often marked by volatility.
Got more bad news a little while ago. It was just confirmed by his family that esteemed #boxing trainer Tommy Brooks died tonight, after having fought a very aggressive cancer. Too young. Great boxing man and even better person, he was just a solid dude. Shared many memorable…
— Lou DiBella🥊 (@loudibella) July 30, 2025
From Rising Fighter to Respected Trainer
According to Yahoo Sports, Brooks began boxing at 14 and quickly made a name for himself with a standout amateur career, winning the 1975 US National AAU Middleweight Championship. He turned professional in 1977 and compiled a record of seven wins and three losses before transitioning fully into coaching.
It was in the corner, not in the ring, where Brooks found his true calling. He was known for his sharp technical mind and deep understanding of fighters, attributes that helped define the careers of several heavyweight legends.
He played a pivotal role in Evander Holyfield's rise to become undisputed champion in both the cruiserweight and heavyweight divisions.
Brooks was in Holyfield's corner during his historic back-to-back victories over Mike Tyson in 1996 and 1997. These fights stunned fans and cemented both men's places in boxing history.
Ironically, Tyson would later turn to Brooks for guidance as he sought to revive his career. Brooks trained 'Iron Mike' until 2002, when the two parted ways following Tyson's loss to Lennox Lewis, as reported by the New York Post.
Beyond Tyson and Holyfield, Brooks also worked with world-class fighters including Wladimir and Vitali Klitschko, Michael Grant, and Larry Donald.
His reputation as a strategist and motivator made him one of the most sought-after trainers of his era. The World Boxing Council once called him 'undoubtedly one of the greatest boxing trainers of all time'.
Battling Cancer With Quiet Strength
Brooks' death came after a prolonged fight with a particularly aggressive form of cancer. Throughout his illness, he remained close to the boxing world and to his loved ones, never losing the quiet strength that defined his career.
He was supported in his final years by his wife, Donna Duva. She was a respected figure in boxing promotion and daughter of the late Lou Duva, a legendary name in the sport.
Their partnership reflected the same values of discipline, loyalty and perseverance that Brooks instilled in his fighters.
His passing leaves a void not just in the world of boxing but also among the many whose lives he influenced with wisdom and grace.
His wife Donna Duva, a notable figure in boxing promotion and daughter of the influential promoter Lou Duva, stood by his side during his final years. Brooks' death marks a significant loss for the sport he helped shape for decades.
We are saddened to learn of the passing of esteemed trainer Tommy Brooks at the age of 71.
— Boxing News (@BoxingNewsED) July 30, 2025
Boxing News extends our heartfelt condolences to the Brooks family and all who loved him. May he rest in peace. 🌹 pic.twitter.com/MBKgfJZc0W
My condolences to the family and friends of Tommy Brooks a true old school trainer who learned under the great Archie Moore and went on to pass down the lessons to Holyfield, the Klitschko’s, Junior Jones, Freddie Pendleton, Rocky Lockridge, Charles Murray and many more. pic.twitter.com/LbwrRCDZjF
— Homicide Hank (@FightOdyssey1) July 30, 2025
One of the best trainers in the entire sport of Boxing. I would need to write a book detailing all the fighters Tommy Brooks trained at one time or another. Hall of fame list for once wouldn't do it justice, but is a reflection of how good the man was at his job that fighters… pic.twitter.com/eo8BhZbY6j
— Beau Denison (@Beau_Denison) July 30, 2025
A Legacy That Transcends Titles
Tributes have poured in from across the boxing community. Lou DiBella described Brooks as 'a great boxing man and even better person', recalling their shared moments during what many call boxing's golden age.
Renowned trainer Teddy Atlas also paid tribute, saying Brooks brought 'class to the sport' and would be deeply missed.
Brooks was respected for far more than the titles won under his guidance. He was admired for his integrity, his commitment to developing fighters both in and out of the ring, and his unwavering dedication to the craft. He shaped champions not only through skill but also through character, leaving behind a legacy etched in the hearts of those who knew him.
Tommy Brooks' name will endure among boxing's greatest. Not simply as a coach, but as a symbol of sportsmanship, mentorship and excellence. His influence will continue to be felt long after the final bell.
