Tributes pour in for former SA heavyweight boxer Gerrie Coetzee

Social media is abuzz after the passing of former South African heavyweight boxer Gerrie Coetzee.

South Africans paid their tributes, praising Coetzee as a true champion.

Saddened to hear of the passing of Gerrie Coetzee, a true champion that put South African boxing on the map.

I had the privilege to work with Gerrie during the 70s & 80s to promote boxing, and will never forget his passion.

My condolences to his family. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/C95NkuS6mW

— Herman Mashaba (@HermanMashaba) January 13, 2023

The former heavyweight boxer died at the age of 67.

He passed away yesterday after a battle with cancer.

A legendary South African has left the building. Thank you for the memories #GerrieCoetzee 🏆 WBA Heavyweight Champion (1983). pic.twitter.com/QggjKM7qy5

— Kutlwano Masote (@kumasote) January 13, 2023

He was the first boxer from Africa to fight for and win a world heavyweight championship having held the WBA title from 1983 to 1984.

RIP LEGEND Gerrie Coetzee , sterkte aan sy familie in hierdie moeilike hartseer tyd. pic.twitter.com/PuRHwZYZxT

— Miss World1974 – Anneline Kriel (@MissWorld1974) January 12, 2023