The boxing world suffered the loss of Richard “Dickie” Cole, who died this Saturday at the age of 89. The World Boxing Association (WBA) mourns the passing of a great boxing man who gave so much to the sport as Texas Commissioner.

Cole was born in 1931 to a Mexican father who introduced him to boxing. In several interviews, he said that in 1939 he saw his first fight and that made him fall in love with the sweet science.

Born in Dallas, he became interested in boxing at a very young age and began to train himself until he took his position at the Texas Commission in 1993. He worked at the head of the state for 21 years until April 2014, when he reached an agreement to retire.

A pleasant man whose good humor contrasted with his firm hand at the office. He always worked to do things right, to ensure the safety of the fighters and to make boxing better.

The WBA regrets Cole’s departure and extends prayers for his soul and for the comfort of his family and friends. Thank you for everything, “Dickie”!