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      ‘Tell everyone’ – Eddie Hearn reveals what Anthony Joshua said to him about fighting Jake Paul after shock call out

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      EDDIE HEARN has revealed details of his conversation with Anthony Joshua about fighting Jake Paul.YouTuber-turned-boxer Paul shocked the world last week by revealing his intention to throw down with the former two-time unified heavyweight champion.Jake Paul sensationally called out Anthony Joshua earlier this monthCredit: GETTYThe social media sensation is adamant he’d KO the former two-time heavyweight champEddie Hearn has revealed AJ is very much open to fighting the YouTuberCredit: GETTYBoxing fans worldwide were left stunned by the social media star’s sensational call-out, which AJ has appeared to entertain.And Hearn has revealed the Watford warrior is very much down to teach The Problem Child a lesson.The Matchroom Boxing Chief told DAZN: “AJ would fight Jake Paul. He would fight anyone, to be honest with you.”And if Jake Paul wants to step up and fight Anthony Joshua, he will need the relevant insurance.READ MORE BOXING NEWS”But the only thing that was disappointing is that he said 2026. Do it in 2025 if you really want to do it.”But those two have spoken, I spoke to AJ this morning and he went, ‘Of course, I’ll fight him’.”Jake creates massive events, unbelievable viewership and no disrespect to Jake Paul but it’s a straightforward night’s work.”I like this calling out of Canelo [Alvarez] and others. AJ is another chance. But if they are game, why not?”Most read in BoxingWhen asked what AJ told him in response to Paul’s provocation, Hearn replied: “He said, ‘Why not? Tell everyone I’ll fight anyone. It is not a problem for me.’”AJ hasn’t set foot in the ring since suffering a brutal fifth-round KO defeat to Daniel Dubois in their Wembley bout last September.A long-overdue showdown with Tyson Fury was seemingly on the cards for the London 2012 gold medallist before The Gypsy King announced his fifth retirement in January.But AJ is refusing to write off the Battle of Britain, telling iFL TV: “I feel like it’s the best fight [for me].”People might say [Joseph] Parker, people might say – I don’t know.”But I think Fury, commercially, is a great fight and it’s a great man’s fight as well. So I think it makes sense.”You could say it’s been years in the making.”But listen, the heavyweight division has been thriving.”And why I say it’s probably still a great fight is as I said Parker is, for me, a great story of someone that never gives up.READ MORE SUN STORIES”And the thing is, there is going to be one winner and one loser.”And there’s going to be bloodshed. And it ain’t gonna be mine.” More

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      ‘He’s a monster’ – Jake Paul reveals which boxer he would never fight after calling out Anthony Joshua

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      JAKE PAUL has revealed the one “monster” boxer he will never fight. The YouTuber-turned-boxer sent social media into a frenzy when he called out Anthony Joshua on his podcast.Jake Paul has been called out by boxing superstar Artur BeterbievCredit: GettyAnd the two later shared a phone call and teased a shock fight in 2026 on their social media channels.Paul made the callout while joined by former super-middleweight world champion David Benavidez – nicknamed the Mexican Monster. The Arizona-born light-heavyweight is 30-0 with 24 knockouts and renowned for his dazzling speed and punch power. So Paul had no problem admitting to Benavidez’s face that he would not go anywhere near fighting him. READ MORE IN BOXINGHe said: “(My manager) is talking about all these potential fights, and I’m like, ‘Yes, no,’ and the only no is you. “I will not fight this f***ing guy, he’s a fucking monster. I’m just gonna f***ing die, bro. I know my boundaries.”But here’s the thing, I want to fight Anthony Joshua – exclusive – because I know that I will f***ing beat Anthony Joshua’s ass. “He doesn’t have a chin and he has no skill and he’s stiff. And I love you, Anthony, we’re friends, all this s***, but I want to fight you.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS“I will beat Canelo, I will beat a lot of f***ing people, I will not beat David Benavidez. I would get torn up, bro. This guy is different. He’s different.”Benavidez, 28, most recently beat David Morrell to win the interim WBC and WBA titles.Jake Paul brutally warned against fighting Anthony Joshua by ex-world champions Paul, 28, meanwhile defeated Mike Tyson, 58, in his last bout but it was marred in controversy due to the age gap between them.After the fight – which was viewed by more than 100MILLION on Netflix – Paul’s team opened the door to a potential AJ fight.Paul weighed a career-heaviest 227lb (16st 2lb) for his eight-round points win over Tyson.Joshua, 35, was 252.5lb (18st) for his September KO loss to Daniel Dubois meaning there is still a TWO STONE difference with Paul.And promoter Eddie Hearn revealed AJ is board for the fight. I will beat Canelo, I will beat a lot of f***ing people, I will not beat David Benavidez. I would get torn up, bro. This guy is different. He’s different.Jake Paul Hearn said: “To be honest, I look at it and I think Jake Paul against Anthony Joshua — for me, we’d do it for the banter.”AJ would fight Jake Paul. He’d fight anyone to be honest with you. If Jake Paul wants to step up and fight Anthony Joshua, he’ll need the relevant insurance.“The only thing that was disappointing was he says 2026. That’s like me saying, LA Olympics for the surfing in 2028, I’ll be there.’”Do it in 2025 if you really want to do it. You’re not going to get really much better at this stage.”I don’t know. Those two have spoken, I spoke to AJ this morning, he went, ‘Listen, of course I’d fight him.’READ MORE SUN STORIES“[Joshua] said, ‘Why not?’ I said, ‘What do you want me to say when I’m asked about it?’”He said, ‘Tell everyone I’ll fight anyone, any time, it’s not a problem for me.’”David Benavidez is nicknamed the Mexican MonsterCredit: GettyAnthony Joshua with Jake Paul in Dubai in 2022 More

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      ‘It might be the end of his life’ – Jake Paul brutally warned against fighting Anthony Joshua by ex-world champions

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      JAKE PAUL has been warned he could DIE if he fights Anthony Joshua.The YouTuber-turned-boxer made the shock call out of AJ on his podcast while blasting the two-time heavyweight world champion.Carl Froch and Amir Khan warned Jake Paul against fighting Anthony JoshuaJake Paul called out AJ on his podcastCredit: GettyJoshua and Jake Paul both teased the fightCredit: GettyBut British legends Carl Froch and Amir Khan laughed off the fight and sent Paul a word of warning. Khan, 38, said: “What a mismatch that is. Joshua would kill him.”Froch, 47, replied: “I think AJ’s way too big and he throws a good one-two down the pipe and if he lands that on Fake Paul’s chin it’s f***ing game over, surely?” Khan said: “Jake Paul would never look at boxing again. He’ll never want to fight again. READ MORE IN BOXING”That will be the end of his YouTube career in my opinion after a shot like that with that one-two.” Froch then chimed in with: “It might be the end of his life.” It comes after Paul called out Joshua while undefeated David Benavidez joined his podcast. He said: “I want to fight Anthony Joshua – exclusive – because I know I will f***ing beat Anthony Joshua’s ass.Most read in BoxingCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITS”He doesn’t have a chin, and he has no skill and he’s stiff. I love you Anthony, we’re friends, all this s*** but I want to fight you.”I will beat Canelo, I will beat a lot of f***ing people.”Jake Paul blasts Anthony Joshua and vows to KO heavyweight superstarThe two then shared a phone call and both teased a fight in 2026. Paul, 28, beat Mike Tyson, 58, in his last bout but it was marred in controversy due to the age gap between them.After the fight – which was viewed by more than 100MILLION on Netflix – Paul’s team opened the door to a potential AJ fight.Paul weighed a career-heaviest 227lb (16st 2lb) for his eight-round points win over Tyson.Joshua, 35, was 252.5lb (18st) for his September KO loss to Daniel Dubois, 27, meaning there is still a TWO STONE difference with Paul.But promoter Eddie Hearn revealed AJ is fully on board with the bout. I think AJ’s way too big and he throws a good one-two down the pipe and if he lands that on Fake Paul’s chin it’s f***ing game over,Carl Froch on Anthony Joshua vs Jake Paul Hearn said: “To be honest, I look at it and I think Jake Paul against Anthony Joshua—for me, we’d do it for the banter.”AJ would fight Jake Paul. He’d fight anyone to be honest with you. If Jake Paul wants to step up and fight Anthony Joshua, he’ll need the relevant insurance.“The only thing that was disappointing was he says 2026. That’s like me saying, LA Olympics for the surfing in 2028, I’ll be there.’ “Do it in 2025 if you really want to do it. You’re not going to get really much better at this stage. “I don’t know. Those two have spoken, I spoke to AJ this morning, he went, ‘Listen, of course I’d fight him.’READ MORE SUN STORIES“[Joshua] said, ‘Why not?’ I said, ‘What do you want me to say when I’m asked about it?’ “He said, ‘Tell everyone I’ll fight anyone, any time, it’s not a problem for me.’”Anthony Joshua with Jake Paul in 2022 More

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      ‘He wanted to get the truth’ Tributes pour in for Sun’s Mr Boxing Colin Hart after ‘greatest’ reporter’s death

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      LEGENDARY Sun boxing writer Colin Hart was hailed as “The Greatest” yesterday following his death at the age of 89.Colin had worked for The Sun since its launch in 1969 and was still passing on his unmatched sporting knowledge to readers until a few days before his passing.Sun boxing writer Colin Hart was hailed as ‘The Greatest’ yesterday following his death at the age of 89 (pictured with Lennox Lewis)Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdBarry McGuigan said: ‘Colin was a master when it came to boxing journalism’Credit: GettyThe brilliant sports journalist covered eight Olympic Games, motor racing and even showjumping in a stellar career.But he will forever be remembered as one of the wisest and most authoritative ringside figures in the world of boxing, whose heroes led a stream of warm tributes yesterday.British great Frank Bruno called him “Mr Boxing” and told how Colin was his hero.He said: “When it comes to the kings of boxing reporters, Colin was the undisputed champion. read more on colin hart“No one else will ever lay a glove on him. RIP, my friend.”Fellow former world champion Lennox Lewis said: “He was clearly the leader of the boxing press pack. “I knew that he wanted to get to the truth and tell the truth and if he upset people along the way, so be it.”Another ex-world title holder, Ricky Hatton, added: “Colin was one of the first people to congratulate me when I was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame.Most read in Boxing“He had previously been inducted himself, and I know how proud he was of that — he will be sadly missed.”Former middleweight hero Michael Watson — whose career was ended by a near-fatal injury in his fight with Chris Eubank — called The Sun writer “a boxing man through and through”.Boxing legend Colin Hart reveals how Larry Holmes was targeted by ‘rednecks’ in build-up to Gerry Cooney fightHe added: “Colin cared about us fighters and he campaigned for us.“I felt like he was in my corner during my boxing career and definitely after it.”Former super-middleweight world champ Joe Calzaghe added: “Colin was a real giant of boxing writers and there will never be another like him.”Boxing promoter Frank Warren described him as a “dear friend” and a “superb journalist”, adding: “Colin has been there since the start of my journey in this great sport. “It simply will not be the same without him.”Ring favourite Barry McGuigan said of Colin’s death — coming soon after that of US heavyweight hero George Foreman this weekend: “Colin was a master when it came to boxing journalism. “We are losing all the good ones.”The Sun’s Editor-in-Chief ­Victoria Newton added: “Colin was a brilliant writer who was hugely admired by all of us.“It takes a special journalist to still be at the top of their game approaching the age of 90.“He was never afraid to take on the scariest of heavyweights with his sharp pen and was working in an industry he loved right until the end.Chris Eubank called Colin ‘a boxing man through and through’Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdColin speaks to Mike TysonCredit: Times Newspapers Ltd“The number of warm and heartfelt tributes which have come in say everything about how he was revered and respected around the world.“Colin was the best of The Sun — The Greatest.”Cockney Colin grew up in London’s East End during the Second World War and recalled cowering in Tube stations from the German bombs.He was a life-long supporter of West Ham but fell in love with boxing when his gran took him to see his first professional bill at a local baths when he was ten.Colin’s career in newspapers began with the East London News Agency at 17 before work as a crime reporter and news editor following his national service.But he later switched from news to sport and joined the fledgling Sun newspaper where he quickly established himself as a star.Colleagues and rivals marvelled at his ability to compute every detail from fast-moving sporting events then talk them down a phone line to go directly into print.His talent was such that he stayed at the top of his game for decades, despite shunning modern communication methods which transformed the profession.He was — almost certainly — the only journalist still working up until recently who never owned a mobile phone and still preferred to bash out his reports on a clattering, old-school typewriter. After he gave up smoking, the gruff, white-haired newspaper great was known for chewing on an ever-present toothpick in one corner of his mouth while talking out of the other.Colin never pulled his punches as he covered every epic heavyweight clash involving Muhammad Ali, George Foreman and Joe Frazier during the 1970s.He was also ringside at all the epic bouts involving British boxing greats, from Henry Cooper and Joe Bugner to Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.Colin ‘retired’ when he turned 65 in 2000 but continued to write columns for another 25 yearsCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdBut the most memorable clash of the Sun man’s career was spent in Zaire covering the incredible Rumble in the Jungle classic between Ali and Foreman in October 1974.Foreman — then a terrifying 25-year-old brute — was expected to humble ageing icon Ali but was lured into an astonishing sucker-punch knockout in round eight.Colin described covering the fight as the “most bizarre ten days” after watching locals worship Ali like a god. He added: “At 25, Foreman wasn’t the smiling carefree giant who resembled a benign Buddha that we saw in his latter year. “He was surly, bad-tempered and far from lovable — his fists were like two wrecking balls.“But I had a gut feeling Big George lacked stamina, which is why in Sun Sport I picked Ali to beat him in nine rounds.”Ali would become a personal friend of Colin in his later life and trusted him to break the news of his diagnosis with Parkinson’s.Colin “retired” when he turned 65 in 2000 but continued to write columns for another 25 years, and attend big fights.He also ran with the Olympic torch down South East London’s Old Kent Road in 2012.And he carried on passing on his knowledge to colleagues, combined with hawk-like analysis of fight game skills and weaknesses.In 2017, after Joshua had knocked out Wladimir Klitschko in an epic battle at Wembley, he said the bout ranked in the top ten he had ever witnessed. But he also said that he believed Fury — who had beaten Klitschko two years earlier — was a better fighter.Colin watched his last major heavyweight bout only last year in Riyadh where he saw Fury’s first pro defeat against Oleksandr Usyk.And yet again, he had correctly predicted the result.READ MORE SUN STORIESColin died after a short illness days short of what would have been his 90th birthday on April 6. He is survived by wife Cindy, and daughters Laura and Lisa.Colin with his family after he ran with the Olympic torch down Old Kent Road in 2012Credit: Peter Jordan – The SunColin with boxing promoter Frank Warren who described him as a ‘dear friend’Credit: News Group Newspapers Ltd More

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      Frank Bruno: When I struggled with mental health I turned to Colin Hart – he’s the undisputed Champ of boxing reporters

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      SOMETIMES in life, when your back is against the ropes, and you feel like the whole world is mugging you off, you need people you can reach out to for help who you can trust.Colin Hart was – without a doubt – always one of those people.Colin Hart covered Frank Bruno during the 1990sCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdHart was ringside through Bruno’s highs and lowsCredit: GettyI was just a teenager, a kid really, when our paths crossed for the first time.I was an upcoming amateur fighter making a name for myself. Colin – or Mr Hart as I called him the first time we met – was a top boxing journalist who had covered boxing’s great and good for decades.So I knew when he kept coming back to watch my fights I must have been doing something right.In the end, he was there at ringside, covering every moment: all the highs and all the lows.READ SOME HART CLASSICSRecently, he very kindly picked my fight against Lennox Lewis as one of his top five British bouts of all time.I quite liked the fight as well. Well, apart from the ending if you know what I mean.But it’s the moments outside the ring that I spent with Colin that I’ll remember the most fondly.Boxing now is nothing like it used to be. These days, those press conferences are like mini-fights. The hype, the drama, the aggro – I wouldn’t be surprised if they start putting some of those press conferences on pay-per-view.Most read in BoxingBack in the 80s and 90s it was totally different. Boxers and newspaper journalists would spend time mixing in and around training camps.There was no social media. No 24 hour sports news. Instead, I’d spend hours talking to Colin and his colleagues.COLIN HART: 50th anniversary of Joe Bugner’s first fight with Muhammad Ali, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in 1973These guys knew everything about boxing and Colin had the biggest brain of all. I used to joke that he was a walking encyclopedia.But I secretly soaked up so much of what he said and the advice he gave me.To me, Colin was a serious hombre. When he had something to say it was worth paying attention. . I knew I could trust him too.I’ve not always had a great relationship with the media, especially some of the news-boys over the years. But Colin was as straight as they came – and he quickly became a really firm friend.Maybe that’s why when I hit rock-bottom and started suffering with mental ill health it was Colin I turned to for advice.I remember one phone call, shortly before I was sectioned, where I spoke to Colin on the phone for an hour.Truth be told I was crying out for help and Colin, as ever, advised me the best I could.In the end, like we all have to, I had to find my own way out of my troubles.But Colin was always supporting me, sending me letters and notes. And once I was out of hospital he was one of the first on the phone to wish me well.Colin Hart was The Sun’s ‘Voice of Boxing’ for more than 50 yearsCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdBruno’s rival Lennox Lewis also revered Colin HartCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSince retiring I regularly saw Colin at various boxing events, sportsmans dinners, and charity galas.If I knew he was there I’d always ask to be on his table, and we’d swap stories about the good old days.I last saw Colin in October, at a tribute dinner in London to celebrate my old mate John Conteh, and he was as sharp and as smart as he’d always been.READ MORE SUN STORIESAs ever it was a privilege to spend some time with him and to share a laugh and a joke. It’s hard to believe I’ll never see him again.When it comes to the kings of boxing reporters, Colin was the undisputed Champion. No-one else will ever lay a glove on him. RIP, my friend.Sporting world pays tribute…THE sporting world has paid emotional tributes to The Sun’s legendary Voice of Boxing.Ricky Hatton said: “I am so sad to hear of the passing of Colin Hart. Colin followed my career from the start all the way through to the big fights in Vegas. Colin is one of the last great boxing journalists and he will be sadly missed. RIP old mate.”Michael Buffer said: “I was honoured to know the legendary Boxing Hall of Fame journalist, Colin Hart, for almost all of my career in the sport. His writings and passion for boxing are universally recognised as among the best ever.”Joe Calzaghe said: “Colin was a real giant of boxing writers and there will never be another like him. He will be sorely missed and my deepest condolences go to his family, friends and colleagues.”Read more tributes including from Lennox Lewis and Frank Bruno. More

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      Livingstone Bramble dead at 64: Former WBA lightweight champion known for Ray Mancini battles and love of snakes dies

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      FORMER boxing world champion Livingstone Bramble has passed away at the age of 64.The fighter held the WBA lightweight belt for two years.Livingstone Bramble [left] has passed awayCredit: GettyBramble held the WBA lightweight belt for two years after beating Ray Mancini twiceCredit: GettyBorn as Ras-I Alujah Bramble, the icon is best remembered for his two victories over Hall of Famer Ray Mancini.The hard-hitter knocked out his rival at the Buffalo Memorial Auditorium to claim the WBA lightweight belt in 1984.He retained his crown in the rematch against Mancini a year later and again when facing Tyrone Crawley.But in one of the biggest upsets of a generation, Bramble lost his title to Edwin Rosario in 1986.READ MORE IN BOXINGHe has been described as an “eccentric” character and the Saint Kitts and Nevis-born legend often wore a snake around his neck when heading into the ring.In an iconic encounter with Mancini, Bramble pulled out a voodoo doll and poked it in the eyes while asking him “tell me how your eyes feel, see how your eyes are jumping now?”He also had a pet snake named Dog, a pet dog named Snake and a ferret named Spider.Bramble finished his career with a 40-26-3 records, including 25 knockouts.Most read in BoxingHis old manager and trainer Lou Duva said he was a “nut, a real coconut head, a cuckoo.”In a touching tribute, his pal Stitch Duran said: “One of the hardest punchers I ever did pads for. A true friend. I’ll miss his smile.”Fans added: “Rest in peace champ.”Anther wrote: “Livingstone Bramble was a personality, a character that seemed larger than life with an aura of mystique.”His death comes on the same weekend legend George Foreman and The Sun’s “Voice of Boxing” Colin Hart also sadly passed away. More

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      Lennox Lewis: Colin Hart was revered and pushed for the truth – at first he doubted me but I used it to fuel my career

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      I WAS only with Colin at the undisputed heavyweight world title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia in May and he looked so fit and strong.We were sat behind Usyk’s wife and when she kept standing up to cheer on her man, Colin was politely telling her to sit down so he could see the action.Colin Hart got to know Lennox Lewis during the 1990sCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdLewis used Hart’s critiques to fuel him and the two became friendsCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdEven in the VIP seats, Colin was still in ‘journalist mode’ wanting to capture every second and know exactly what had happened.Afterwards, when Usyk had got his hand raised, his wife and Colin had a lovely chat. She apologised and said she couldn’t help supporting the husband she loves so much. And Colin told her that Usyk was a lucky man.Now I realise that was our last time together, it feels like a really nice one.Early on in our careers, things were definitely not as cosy.READ SOME HART CLASSICSBecause I came over to the UK from Canada, with my Olympic win, Colin didn’t take to me.It seemed like he was a proud Englishman, proud of his country and its fighters, so I felt he picked against me, especially when I boxed a guy he felt was more British than me.I remember he picked Gary Mason and Frank Bruno to beat me, even though all of the other reporters were in my corner.But it ended up being a great inspiration to me, because he was respected, I took his doubts about me and used them as fuel.Most read in BoxingWhen I proved him wrong I would look out for him in the front row and press seats and try to catch his eye.I loved proving him wrong and I could see he felt that too.COLIN HART: 50th anniversary of Joe Bugner’s first fight with Muhammad Ali, at the Las Vegas Convention Center in 1973It was a good healthy professional relationship, where he had questions about me and I was eager to answer them.Eventually he did realise that I was the real deal, I answered all of his questions and I cured all of his doubts.He admitted he had got me wrong and I respected that, that’s how things should work between men.It was clear that he was revered among all the other reporters, he was clearly the leader of the boxing press pack.I don’t think anyone else ever started off a press conference or an interview ahead of Colin.The other reporters waited for him to lead and sometimes he would get about 10 questions off before anyone else dared ask some.Colin Hart was leader of the press packCredit: News Group Newspapers Ltd’The Voice of Boxing’ joined The Sun in 1969Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdI even remember a couple of times when he finished his list of questions, closed up his notepad, tucked away his pen and walked off, just when the other writers were getting the chance to start their questions!He was that confident in his research and questions that he didn’t need to hang around and listen to the leftovers, he was off to write his words.I noticed it around my era but it’s even more prevalent recently, some reporters seem afraid to ask the real questions, or push for the truth, because the fighter or promoter or manager might get angry or cancel their accreditation.There doesn’t seem to be the same desire to get to the real truth anymore.Fighters and their achievements are often way overblown or their failings and mistakes are ignored and glossed over.From my years working with Colin, I could never accuse him of that.I think he would like to know that.I knew that he wanted to get to the truth and tell the truth and – if he upset people along the way – so be it.READ MORE SUN STORIESIt looks like it’s sometimes hard to have a good name in journalism, to be trusted, but I felt like Colin had that.His longevity made him an icon in British boxing but I think the fact that his name and his word was respected probably meant much to him.Sporting world pays tribute…THE sporting world has paid emotional tributes to The Sun’s legendary Voice of Boxing.Ricky Hatton said: “I am so sad to hear of the passing of Colin Hart. Colin followed my career from the start all the way through to the big fights in Vegas. Colin is one of the last great boxing journalists and he will be sadly missed. RIP old mate.”Michael Buffer said: “I was honoured to know the legendary Boxing Hall of Fame journalist, Colin Hart, for almost all of my career in the sport. His writings and passion for boxing are universally recognised as among the best ever.”Joe Calzaghe said: “Colin was a real giant of boxing writers and there will never be another like him. He will be sorely missed and my deepest condolences go to his family, friends and colleagues.”Read more tributes including from Lennox Lewis and Frank Bruno. More

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      Sporting world pays emotional tribute to The Sun’s legendary Voice of Boxing Colin Hart after his death aged 89

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      THE sporting world has paid emotional tributes to The Sun’s legendary Voice of Boxing.Colin Hart, who was a member of this newspaper’s original sports desk when The Sun was launched in 1969, died aged 89 on Saturday.The sporting world has paid emotional tribute to Colin HartCredit: The SunHart with Muhammad Ali Jnr, Michael Watson and John Conteh last yearCredit: RexLennox Lewis being asked questions by Hart in New York in 1999Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdRicky “The Hitman” Hatton and heavyweight champions Lennox Lewis and Frank Bruno led tributes to a “master of his craft”.Ricky Hatton: ‘One of the last great boxing journalists’I am so sad to hear of the passing of Colin Hart.Colin followed my career from the start all the way through to the big fights in Vegas.He would often ring me for a chat and we became genuine mates.Colin was one of the first people to congratulate me when I was inducted into the Boxing Hall of Fame, he had previously been inducted himself, and I know how proud he was of that.We spoke for ages and he told me it was one of the highlights of his career and what to expectAnd, right at the end of the chat, he told me: ‘You’ll love it, Ricky. Just enjoy it like I did’.Colin is one of the last great boxing journalists and he will be sadly missed.RIP old mate.Michael Buffer: ‘Among the best ever’Read more Sports NewsI was honoured to know the legendary Boxing Hall of Fame journalist, Colin Hart, for almost all of my career in the sport.His writings and passion for boxing are universally recognised as among the best ever.He will be forever remembered as a gentleman scribe and, to those of us who knew him by either casual acquaintance or deep personal friendship, he will be missed and never forgotten.Rest in peace, dear friend.Jeff Powell MBE: ‘Wise, wry and fearless’A privilege and a delight to share much of Colin Hart’s journey to legendary status as a sports writer who knew more about boxing than 99 per cent of all those involved in the game. Honest and loyal as an East End day is long. Wise, wry, fearless, generous, a treasure trove of tales to tell. Ultimate professional and much loved companion on our travels. May The Sun never set on his memoryJane Couch: ‘Knew the game inside out’Most read in BoxingMe and Colin go back a long way.Although Col was old fashioned and wasn’t keen on women boxing, he was always OK with me.We got on well.It’s a sad loss to boxing.Colin was one of the old school journalists who knew the game inside out.Boxing legend Colin Hart reveals how Larry Holmes was targeted by ‘rednecks’ in build-up to Gerry Cooney fightJoe Calzaghe: ‘Real giant of boxing writers’Colin was a real giant of boxing writers and there will never be another like him.He will be sorely missed and my deepest condolences go to his family, friends and colleagues.Michael Watson: ‘I felt like he was in my corner’Colin Hart was a boxing man, through and through.We could tell it was more than a job for him.Colin cared about us fighters and he campaigned for us.I felt like he was in my corner during my boxing career and definitely after it.The world has changed a lot since our glory days and I’m not sure there will ever be another Colin Hart.Lennox Lewis: ‘An icon in British boxing’I was only with Colin at the undisputed heavyweight world title fight between Tyson Fury and Oleksandr Usyk in Saudi Arabia in May and he looked so fit and strong.We were sat behind Usyk’s wife and when she kept standing up to cheer on her man, Colin was politely telling her to sit down so he could see the action.Even in the VIP seats, Colin was still in ‘journalist mode’ wanting to capture every second and know exactly what had happened.Afterwards, when Usyk had got his hand raised, his wife and Colin had a lovely chat. She apologised and said she couldn’t help supporting the husband she loves so much. And Colin told her that Usyk was a lucky man.Now I realise that was our last time together, it feels like a really nice one.Early on in our careers, things were definitely not as cosy.Because I came over to the UK from Canada, with my Olympic win, Colin didn’t take to me.It seemed like he was a proud Englishman, proud of his country and its fighters, so I felt he picked against me, especially when I boxed a guy he felt was more British than me.I remember he picked Gary Mason and Frank Bruno to beat me, even though all of the other reporters were in my corner.But it ended up being a great inspiration to me, because he was respected, I took his doubts about me and used them as fuel.When I proved him wrong I would look out for him in the front row and press seats and try to catch his eye.I loved proving him wrong and I could see he felt that too.It was a good healthy professional relationship, where he had questions about me and I was eager to answer them.Eventually he did realise that I was the real deal, I answered all of his questions and I cured all of his doubts.He admitted he had got me wrong and I respected that, that’s how things should work between men.It was clear that he was revered among all the other reporters, he was clearly the leader of the boxing press pack.I don’t think anyone else ever started off a press conference or an interview ahead of Colin.The other reporters waited for him to lead and sometimes he would get about 10 questions off before anyone else dared ask some.I even remember a couple of times when he finished his list of questions, closed up his notepad, tucked away his pen and walked off, just when the other writers were getting the chance to start their questions!He was that confident in his research and questions that he didn’t need to hang around and listen to the leftovers, he was off to write his words.I noticed it around my era but it’s even more prevalent recently, some reporters seem afraid to ask the real questions, or push for the truth, because the fighter or promoter or manager might get angry or cancel their accreditation.There doesn’t seem to be the same desire to get to the real truth anymore.Fighters and their achievements are often way overblown or their failings and mistakes are ignored and glossed over.From my years working with Colin, I could never accuse him of that.I think he would like to know that.I knew that he wanted to get to the truth and tell the truth and – if he upset people along the way – so be it.It looks like it’s sometimes hard to have a good name in journalism, to be trusted, but I felt like Colin had that.His longevity made him an icon in British boxing but I think the fact that his name and his word was respected probably meant much to him.Anthony Crolla: ‘One of the most recognisable faces and voices’It’s heartbreaking that Colin has gone, especially so close to a milestone 90th birthday.But I know that his legacy on British boxing – the sport, not just the journalism – will never be surpassed or forgotten.You were one of the most recognisable faces and voices in the sport – more so than some of us fighters even!I’ll always remember we were sat together for the George Groves win over James DeGale and we had a pretty big difference of opinion!But that night, like all the others, it was just lovely to be in your company and listen to your opinions, because you were someone that I respected, massively.Rest in peace, Colin. We’re really going to miss you.Sun boxing writer Hart chats to Lewis in 1995Credit: News Group Newspapers LtdColin covered hundreds of world title fights and is pictured here with Mike TysonCredit: Times Newspapers LtdColin reported on the iconic Rumble in the Jungle… and predicted Muhammad Ali’s win when the rest of Fleet Street tipped George ForemanCredit: News Group Newspapers LtdSpencer Oliver: ‘The man you wanted to take notice of you’I’m not exaggerating to say that Colin was THE man you wanted to take notice of you, when you was boxing in my era.When we opened The Sun at the gym, we would rush straight through to his pages and hoped we would get a mention.Colin was always the boxing reporter of that generation that was the most respected in the gyms and at the shows, everyone wanted to get on his radar and get praise in his columns.It’s broken me a little bit, because he covered my entire career and he helped me when I was injured and in hospital and fighting dark times.He was always in my corner, when I felt very alone. And then again when I started working in the media and he helped me with so many TV and radio shows.It’s a real blow, it’s no exaggeration to say British boxing will not be the same again.Looking around a London ring, from Wembley stadium or York Hall, you almost always spot Colin with a paper under his arm.I’m gutted I’m never going to see that again.But I’m so grateful for everything he did for me and I hope I repaid him, somehow.READ MORE SUN STORIESJohnny Nelson: ‘An absolutely proper boxing journalist’When Colin Hart wrote about you in The Sun it was a big deal.I remember it took him ages to write about me, I kept looking for an article an it never came and, when it did, I don’t thing it was even nice about me!But because fighters knew how much Colin had given to the sport, the amateur shows, not just world titles, they respected his opinion.I saw him have loads of arguments with fighters because, when he criticised them, it hurt, because he knew his stuff and it carried weight.And he wasn’t being critical for attention, he was doing his job and he had earned his right to an opinion.These days most boxing coverage is about views and clicks and content, people need to protect their access rather than ask the important questions.Colin was the opposite of that, he was an absolutely proper boxing journalist.I don’t think there will ever be another boxing reporter like Colin Hart, the world and the sport and the industry doesn’t make them like that anymore.Frank Bruno: ‘Undisputed Champion of boxing reporters’Sometimes in life, when your back is against the ropes, and you feel like the whole world is mugging you off, you need people you can reach out to for help who you can trust. Colin Hart was – without a doubt – always one of those people. I was just a teenager, a kid really, when our paths crossed for the first time. I was an upcoming amateur fighter making a name for myself. Colin – or Mr Hart as I called him the first time we met – was a top boxing journalist who had covered boxing’s great and good for decades. So I knew when he kept coming back to watch my fights I must have been doing something right. In the end, he was there at ringside, covering every moment: all the highs and all the lows. Recently, he very kindly picked my fight against Lennox Lewis as one of his top five British bouts of all time. I quite liked the fight as well. Well, apart from the ending if you know what I mean. But it’s the moments outside the ring that I spent with Colin that I’ll remember the most fondly. Boxing now is nothing like it used to be. These days, those press conferences are like mini-fights. The hype, the drama, the aggro – I wouldn’t be surprised if they start putting some of those press conferences on pay-per-view. Back in the 80s and 90s it was totally different. Boxers and newspaper journalists would spend time mixing in and around training camps. There was no social media. No 24 hour sports news. Instead, I’d spend hours talking to Colin and his colleagues. These guys knew everything about boxing and Colin had the biggest brain of all. I used to joke that he was a walking encyclopedia. But I secretly soaked up so much of what he said and the advice he gave me. To me, Colin was a serious hombre. When he had something to say it was worth paying attention. I knew I could trust him too. I’ve not always had a great relationship with the media, especially some of the news-boys over the years. But Colin was as straight as they came – and he quickly became a really firm friend. Maybe that’s why when I hit rock-bottom and started suffering with mental ill health it was Colin I turned to for advice. I remember one phone call, shortly before I was sectioned, where I spoke to Colin on the phone for an hour. Truth be told I was crying out for help and Colin, as ever, advised me the best I could. In the end, like we all have to, I had to find my own way out of my troubles. But Colin was always supporting me, sending me letters and notes. And once I was out of hospital he was one of the first on the phone to wish me well. Since retiring I regularly saw Colin at various boxing events, sportsmans dinners, and charity galas. If I knew he was there I’d always ask to be on his table, and we’d swap stories about the good old days. I last saw Colin in October, at a tribute dinner in London to celebrate my old mate John Conteh, and he was as sharp and as smart as he’d always been. As ever it was a privilege to spend some time with him and to share a laugh and a joke. It’s hard to believe I’ll never see him again. When it comes to the kings of boxing reporters, Colin was the undisputed Champion. No-one else will ever lay a glove on him. RIP, my friend. Frank Bruno More