*The legendary and charismatic boxing promoter Ronald “Butch” Lewis has died. Reports say Lewis was struck by a massive heart attack and died early Saturday morning (07-23-11) according to reports. He was 65
Lewis’ sartorial trademark was his “Chocolate Tuxedo” look which consisted of him wearing a tuxedo without a shirt underneath it.
Lewis, a former car salesman, grew up in Philadelphia, was always fascinated by boxing and became a close friend and associate of Joe Frazier and Muhammad Ali.
In 1988, Lewis negotiated one of the largest guaranteed paydays, $13.5 million, in the sport’s history for Michael Spink’s fight against Mike Tyson.
Lewis made his foray into the entertainment world in 1991, producing cable and feature films through his Butch Lewis Productions.
He later started a partnership with Universal’s Island Def Jam Music Group to create a record label, Voicez.
Among those mourning the loss of Lewis are actor Denzel Washington and BET founder Bob Johnson, who were his close friends.
Butch Lewis, James Brown and Mike Spinks
