The boxing world has lost a legend. Alex Wallau, the iconic voice of ABC's boxing broadcasts throughout the '80s and '90s, has passed away at the age of 80. His insightful commentary and passionate delivery brought countless thrilling matches into our living rooms. But his legacy extends far beyond the ring, encompassing a life marked by courage, resilience, and a deep love for the sport.
The news, announced by his wife Martha, revealed that Wallau's death was due to throat cancer, a battle he first faced in 1987. He was initially diagnosed with stage four cancer, which later spread to his tongue. And this is the part most people miss... Despite this devastating diagnosis, Wallau's dedication to boxing never wavered. He returned to the airwaves just six months after undergoing multiple surgeries, calling the IBF junior lightweight title fight between Rocky Lockridge and Harold Knight in Atlantic City in 1988.
Born on January 11, 1945, in Manhattan, Wallau's journey was as diverse as the fighters he commentated on. He grew up in Connecticut, graduated from Williams College, and began his career as a sports writer, editor, and public relations consultant. In 1976, he joined ABC as a producer and director before taking over the on-air boxing analyst role. Before taking on broadcast duties, Wallau was responsible for selecting, negotiating, and purchasing the fights that aired on ABC Sports.
But here's where it gets controversial... Wallau wasn't afraid to speak his mind. His willingness to offer honest opinions sometimes put him at odds with fighters and promoters. He even faced threats after criticizing Don King's controversial 1977 United States Boxing Championships Series.
In a 1988 interview, Wallau shared his unique perspective on boxing: “I can justify the sport. I don’t go to boxing to see blows or to see hurt. I see people in the most basic of dramatic situations trying to deal with the one thing we all try to avoid - pain - and to summon up that one quality one rarely exhibits - courage.”
Wallau's impact on the sport is undeniable. Jim Lampley, another legendary commentator, credited Wallau with shaping his understanding of boxing, leading to his Hall of Fame induction in 2015. Lampley stated that Wallau was a fighter and taught him how to see and call boxing matches.
Bruce Trampler, a Top Rank matchmaker, also paid tribute to Wallau, highlighting his courage and influence. Trampler noted that Wallau faced death threats for exposing corruption and later became president of ABC TV.
Beyond his commentary, Wallau won two Emmy Awards as a producer and director. He was named President of ABC in 2000. In 2007, he became a Senior Strategic Advisor for The Walt Disney Company, and in 2017, he worked in the division that eventually created Disney+. Wallau retired in 2000.
What are your favorite memories of Alex Wallau's commentary? Do you agree with his perspective on the sport? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
