Don Fullmer

Biography

Don Fullmer's boxing journey is a remarkable testament to the fighting spirit that seemed to run in the Fullmer family. Starting as an unbeatable amateur, Don transitioned into the professional ranks with a determination that saw him facing off against some of the most formidable boxers of his era. While he might not have achieved the world champion status that his brother Gene did, Don's career was marked by significant victories and memorable battles that underscored his resilience and skill inside the ring.

His victories over notable fighters like Jimmy Ellis and the rematches against Emile Griffith and Joey Archer highlighted his ability to learn, adapt, and overcome previous setbacks. His bouts against boxing legends such as Terry Downes, Dick Tiger, José Torres, and Nino Benvenuti, despite not always ending in his favour, showcased the level of competition he was up against, emphasising the calibre of boxer that Don was.

The fight against Benvenuti for the middleweight title was particularly notable. It illustrated not just Don's boxing prowess but also the heart and tenacity he brought to the ring. That he managed to knock down Benvenuti, a feat in itself, speaks volumes about his capability as a fighter.

Beyond the confines of the ring, Don Fullmer's life after retirement paints a picture of a man dedicated to his community and boxing. His work with the Salt Lake County Fire Department and the Fullmer Brothers boxing gym operation in West Jordan with his brothers offered a glimpse into the man he was outside the ring—committed, generous, and always looking to give back.

Don's death from leukaemia was a loss not just to his family but to the wider boxing community and those he helped throughout his post-boxing life. Survived by his wife, Nedra, and their five sons, Don Fullmer's legacy is one of determination, resilience, and an indomitable fighting spirit—both in and out of the boxing ring.