Hugh Russell: The Belfast Boxer Who Found Success Inside and Outside the Ring

Moscow Olympics boxing bronze medallist Hugh Russell, a beloved figure in both the world of sports and photography, passed away at the age of 63 after battling illness. This article commemorates his life and achievements, highlighting his journey from the boxing ring to a prolific career as a photographer with the Irish News.

Russell’s early years in the boxing world were marked by determination and success. He represented Ireland at the 1980 Moscow Olympics, where he won a bronze medal in the flyweight division. This victory was a significant milestone for Irish boxing, as it marked the first Olympic medal for the nation since Jim McCourt’s bronze in Tokyo in 1964.

After his Olympic success, Russell decided to turn professional and soon made a name for himself in the world of boxing. He won both the British bantamweight and flyweight titles, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier boxer. His rise in the professional boxing scene added to Ireland’s boxing legacy, and his accomplishments changed his life forever.

In addition to his boxing career, Russell had a unique story about how he ventured into photography. At the end of the Moscow Olympics, he had accumulated spare Russian roubles, and this led him to buy a Zenith camera. This simple purchase marked the beginning of his journey as a photographer. It’s a story that beautifully captures the intersection of sports and art in his life.

Russell’s photography career extended far beyond capturing sporting moments. He documented significant events, including the releases of the Guildford Four and Birmingham Six, as well as the signing of the Anglo-Irish Agreement by the British and Irish Prime Ministers Margaret Thatcher and Garret FitzGerald at Hillsborough Castle in County Down. His work earned him numerous awards and recognition for his talent and dedication.

His charm and friendly demeanor made him a popular figure in the media landscape in Belfast. Even after retiring from the boxing ring, Russell remained connected to the sport by serving as a British Boxing Board of Control steward, which included officiating at weigh-ins for professional fights in Belfast. His contributions to the sport and the community were highly valued.

Russell’s legacy extended beyond Belfast and the UK. He inspired the next generation of boxers, including two-time Olympic bronze medallist Paddy Barnes, who trained at the same Holy Family Club in Belfast where Russell had made his name as a boxer. Barnes admired Russell for his accolades as an amateur and aspired to follow in his footsteps. Russell’s impact on the sport was profound and far-reaching.

The passing of Hugh Russell is not just a loss for Belfast but for the entire world of boxing and photography. He was a champion both in and out of the ring, leaving a lasting legacy that will continue to inspire and be remembered by all who knew him.