By Sean Crose
Perhaps you truly had to experience it firsthand. Livingstone Bramble might not hold the title of the greatest lightweight ever, even though he was undeniably talented. And while his reign was not the longest—just a few years, actually—Bramble, who passed away at the age of 64 this weekend, left a lasting impression. Back in 1984, few believed he could clinch the WBA lightweight title, yet this St. Croix native shocked everyone. He stopped the reigning champion, Ray Mancini, in the 14th round with astonishing skill. When they had a tightly contested rematch the next year, Bramble once again emerged victorious, this time through the judges’ decision.
Bramble’s career took a downward turn when Edwin Rosario defeated him soundly in just two rounds during a fight in Miami in 1986, prompting the referee to intervene. That was the end of Bramble’s time as a world champion. Despite losing his title to Rosario and never reclaiming a world championship, Bramble was a captivating figure when he stepped into the ring. Audiences were drawn in by his fights, whether he was stepping into the ring with a huge snake draped around himself, exchanging blows with Mancini, or even when Rosario took him down.
In the early ’90s, far past his prime, Bramble continued to entertain fans, showing up in thrilling bouts on shows like Tuesday Night Fights. Even though he was no longer a dominant force, his performances exemplified solid boxing. Many former champions can’t maintain that level past their best years, but Bramble was a pure boxer through and through.
Bramble may no longer walk among us, but he left behind a legacy of unforgettable moments in the ring. My own memory of him includes watching him claim the title from Mancini, as well as witnessing Rosario’s victory over him two years later. He competed in an era filled with exceptional talent, and it wasn’t just his quirky personality or love for pet snakes that made Bramble memorable. After a narrow loss in the early ’90s, my dad remarked, “The guy’s okay.” Indeed, he truly was more than okay. Those of us who watched Bramble’s career won’t easily forget him.
Rest in peace, Livingstone Bramble.
