Gary Mason

Biography

Gary Mason was a prominent British heavyweight boxer who competed professionally from 1984 to 1994. Born in Jamaica on December 15, 1962, Mason moved to Wandsworth, London, and later to Chatham, Kent.

Throughout his career, Mason demonstrated impressive punching power and physical strength, which helped him become a top contender in the heavyweight division. In 1989, he captured the British heavyweight title, cementing his status as one of the country's best boxers.

Mason's professional record was impressive, with 37 wins out of 38 fights, 34 of which were knockouts. His only loss came in 1991 when he faced future world champion Lennox Lewis in a challenging bout for the European title. Despite the defeat, Mason gave Lewis one of the most brutal fights of his career.

During his time in the ring, Mason faced and defeated several notable heavyweights, including Tyrell Biggs, James Tillis, Alfonzo Ratliff, Ricky Parkey, James Pritchard, Louis Pergaud, Hughroy Currie, and David Jaco. He also sparred with former WBA World cruiserweight number one and British heavyweight champion David Pearce, who played a significant role in helping Mason prepare for his title fights.

Despite his success, Mason's career was filled with setbacks. In 1990, he suffered a detached retina in a bout against Everett Martin, which led to a brief retirement. He staged a comeback but lost to Lennox Lewis by TKO, which aggravated his eye injury. After winning two more fights in the United States, Mason retired from boxing for good.

Outside of the ring, Mason briefly played rugby league, playing three matches for the London Crusaders (now London Broncos) and scoring a try in his first game. He also occasionally participated in celebrity soccer matches as part of an Arsenal Celebrities team.

Mason made several television appearances, including a special celebrity edition of Gladiators in 1993, where he competed to raise money for charity. He also appeared on the ITV show You Bet! panel and the second episode of the first series of GamesMaster in 1992, where he played the arcade game Sonic Blast Man.

Tragically, on January 6, 2011, Gary Mason died in a cycling accident when he was hit by a van in Sandy Lane South, Wallington, South London. He was 48 years old at the time of his death.

Mason's legacy in British boxing history is significant, as he remains one of the most potent and successful heavyweights to have emerged from the United Kingdom. His impressive record and memorable fights continue to be celebrated by fans and experts alike.