Joe Calzaghe has paid tribute to his late father Enzo by saying nothing would have been possible without him.
With his father as his trainer, the Newbridge fighter become an undefeated two-weight world champion in a 46-fight professional career.
Posting on social media, Joe Calzaghe wrote: “Dad I miss you so much. Thank you for always being there for me.
“I’m blessed having you as my dad and my best friend. You were my teacher, mentor and will always be my hero.
“You picked me up when I didn’t believe in myself, and you made me believe. Without you nothing would have been possible.
“I thank God you were with me by my side all the way through my life.
“You supported me through the highs and lows and taught me how being a great dad should be.
“You will be missed every day. You are always in my heart and will continue to be by my side throughout my life.
“I love you always and forever dad.”
Enzo, who was originally from Sardinia but settled in Newbridge, died aged 69 on Monday, September 17. His funeral is due to take place on Friday, September 28.
As well as being in his son’s corner for ten years, Calzaghe also went on to coach Enzo Maccarinelli and Gavin Rees to world titles.
His success was recognised in 2007 when he won the prestigious ‘Ring’ Magazine trainer of the year award and coach of the year at BBC Sports Personality of the Year. Three years later he was also handed the MBE.
Since Enzo’s passing, tributes have been pouring in from across the boxing world.
Phillipstown’s two-time light-heavyweight world champion Nathan Cleverly, who was trained by Enzo in the early part of his career, posted on Twitter: “A teacher, a trainer and a great man.
“He predicted early on in my teen years that I would become a world champion. He taught me so much. ‘God tests everyone.’ God bless, Enzo.”
When his death was announced, biographer and friend Michael Pearlman told BBC Wale: “His personality was ginormous. Whatever room you were in, he owned that room. He did everything at 1,000mph. His personality was just infectious. He was very hard work but in a very nice way. He very much had his family first, boxing second, and everything else after that really.
“He would be found at the boxing gym in Newbridge long after Joe had retired and long after he’d finished as a top level trainer.
“He loved the sport and he loved his local community. His loss is going to be felt hugely across South Wales and boxing in general I think.”
