A Boxing Legend’s Farewell

The boxing world mourns the loss of Dick McTaggart, Scotland’s only Olympic gold medalist in boxing, who passed away at the age of 89. McTaggart’s extraordinary career, marked by 610 wins in 634 amateur bouts, cemented his status as one of the greatest amateur boxers of all time.

Olympic and Commonwealth Triumphs

McTaggart’s crowning achievement came at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics, where he claimed gold in the lightweight division. Four years later, he added a bronze at the 1960 Rome Olympics. His dominance extended to the Commonwealth Games, winning gold in 1958 and silver in 1962. Despite lucrative offers, he remained dedicated to amateur boxing, capturing the British ABA title five times (1956, 1958, 1960, 1963, 1965).

A Humble Icon

Born in Dundee in 1935, McTaggart rose from humble beginnings, balancing his RAF duties as a cook with his boxing career. His technical brilliance earned him the Val Barker Trophy in 1956 for best boxing style. Post-retirement, he served as a coach for Scotland’s Commonwealth Games teams (1986, 1990) and was awarded an MBE in 1985 for his contributions to the sport.

Legacy Beyond the Ring

A 9ft statue in Dundee’s St Francis Boxing Club and a sports center named in his honor stand as testaments to his impact. Colleagues like journalist Jim Spence praised his humility: "A real gentleman and sporting icon who inspired generations." McTaggart’s refusal to turn professional, choosing passion over profit, epitomized his love for the sport.

"Boxing was my hobby, not my job," he once said—a mantra that defined his unparalleled legacy.