Legendary boxer Jake LaMotta, the “raging bull”, dies

Jake LaMotta, the legendary boxer nicknamed the “raging bull”, has died.

The family of the 95-year-old announced his passing last night. He is said to have suffered complications from pneumonia.

LaMotta was famously portrayed by Robert De Niro in classic film Raging Bull.

His daughter Christi posted a tribute to him on Facebook.

It read: “Jake LaMotta July 10, 1922 – September 19, 2017 – Rest in Peace Pop.”

LaMotta is considered one of the greatest boxers of all time.

On June 16, 1949 he was named the World Middleweight champion after defeating Frenchman Marcel Cerdan.

His ferocious fighting style in the ring earned him his moniker, and he was known for his ability to take a punch.

His bouts with Sugar Ray Robinson are the stuff of boxing legend, with LaMotta beating him for the first time in his career in 1943.

LaMotta famously said: “The three toughest fighters I ever fought were Sugar Ray Robinson, Sugar Ray Robinson and Sugar Ray Robinson.

“I fought Sugar so many times, I’m surprised I’m not diabetic.”

He took part in 106 fights in his career – winning 83, 30 of them by knock-out. There were 19 losses and four draws.