Half-mast flags for legendary Duva

The International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York, is flying its flags at half-mast to mark the death of Lou Duva, who handled the careers of 19 champions including heavyweight titlist Evander Holyfield.

The colorful Duva died on Wednesday of natural causes at a hospital near his home in Paterson, New Jersey. He was 94. A gruff, down-to-earth manager and trainer who was generous with his pupils, Duva’s career spanned seven decades.

Besides Holyfield, Duva handled welterweight champions Pernell Whitaker and Meldrick Taylor. His first titlist was middleweight Joey Giardiello, who won his crown in 1963.