Tribute to Granville Williams

England Boxing has been said to learn of the passing of long-serving Miguel’s ABC coach Granville Williams.

He served the London region club devotedly and was a popular figure on the amateur boxing circuit, both in the captial and beyond.

A tribute on the Miguel’s Facebook page said: “It is with great sadness to announce the passing of our beloved amateur coach Granville.

“He has been at Miguel’s for 25-plus years and has been an incredible role model/coach to many over the years.

“Our hearts go out to his family during this very difficult time. Granville will be incredibly missed and will always remain a part of our Miguel’s family.”

In a series of posts on his Instagram account, Kheron Gilpin, who won the England Boxing National Amateur Championships in 2019 at Under 86kg, paid an emotional tribute.

“Coach G gave me more time in the gym than my biological father gave me in my entire life,” he said.

“This man created champions… every coach is an unsung hero. He was there for 26 of my 31 bouts. Love you coach, glad I got to tell you that before this day.

“So many have lost someone in our corner. Coach G lived a life dedicated to inspiring the youth, encouraging a healthy lifestyle, being there for us all week in, week out for the last 30 years. That’s a life of service.

“Looking back at pics, I realise that coach was always there by my side. You said it was mine and I went for it and got it (the national title). And I’m going for everything else we spoke about.

“Thank you for being there through all my battles. Thank you for helping me discover myself.”

London Boxing added: “He was a very warm and friendly person. Granville will be greatly missed on the amateur boxing circuit.

England Boxing would like to extend its condolences to Granville’s family and friends at this said time. May he rest in peace.