The WBA announced the death of Gary Shaw, a former promoter who was instrumental in the creaton and rise of ShoBox: The New Generation, which helped launch the careers of many future champions and enjoyed a run of 20+ years on Showtime. Shaw promoted one of the greatest fights of all time, Diego Corrales vs. Jose Luis Castillo, He also promoted, at various times, Tim Bradley, Nonito Donaire, Shane Mosley and Winky Wright. Prior to founding Gary Shaw Promotions, Shaw was an executive with Main Events. More recently, Shaw was a member of the World Boxing Association. According to the WBA, Shaw was born in New Mexico in 1944, and studied physical education at the University of Miami. He entered boxing in 1971 with the New Jersey Athletic Commission.

He has been inducted into the California Boxing Hall of Fame and the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame for his contributions to the boxing world.

Boxingtalk joins the WBA in sending its sympathy to the friends and family of Gary Shaw.

PUBLICIST FRED STERNBURG'S TRIBUTE TO GARY SHAW:

It's a sad day with Gary Shaw's passing.  He was responsible for my first two clients when I started my business -- Winky Wright and and his own Gary Shaw Productions.  We had a helluva ride together and he always treated me like family (usually a good thing!). Thank you, Gary.

JOE DEGUARDIA'S STAR BOXING ISSUED THE FOLLOWING TRIBUTE TO SHAW:

Today, we mourn the loss of a relic in the boxing world. Gary Shaw, a titan in the sport, has passed away at the age of 79. With decades of dedication to boxing, Gary Shaw's impact reverberates through history. From his days as a regulator with the NJ Athletic Commission to his influential role as a promoter, Gary shaped the landscape of the sport we love.

Many will remember his iconic Showtime Boxing matches, including the unforgettable bouts between Lennox Lewis and Mike Tyson. [Editor's note: they only fought once]. Joe DeGuardia, our founder, had the privilege of knowing Gary for years. Their collaboration transcended business; they were friends who shared a passion for the sport. In Gary Shaw, we've lost one of the 'Last of the Mohicans' of boxing—a true pioneer and a respected figure in the community. Our thoughts are with his family and loved ones during this difficult time. Rest in peace, Gary Shaw.

Hall of Fame promoter Don King on the passing of promoter Gary Shaw: 

“I was sad to learn today about the passing of Gary Shaw. Gary's contributions to the world of boxing were immense, and his passion for the sport was truly inspiring. He will be remembered not only for his expertise as a promoter but also for his dedication to the athletes he represented. Gary was always a stand-up guy who kept his word, and his spirit will live on. I loved him and we are going to miss him. My thoughts and condolences go out to his family.”