Nino Benvenuti, an esteemed Italian boxer and Olympic gold medalist, passed away on Tuesday in Rome at the age of 87. His death was confirmed by the Italian Olympic Committee, which did not disclose the specific location of his passing.
Benvenuti gained fame for winning the welterweight title at the 1960 Rome Olympics, where he was recognized as the outstanding fighter, notably competing against a young Cassius Clay, later known as Muhammad Ali. While Ali became a globally recognized figure, Benvenuti was celebrated as Italy’s greatest boxer, known for his elegance and power in the ring, and he carved out a remarkable career.
Outside of boxing, Benvenuti was noted for his literary interests, enjoying works by authors such as Hemingway, Voltaire, and Steinbeck, and he often listened to Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony en route to his fights. His intense rivalries with Hall of Fame middleweights Emile Griffith and Carlos Monzon evolved into deep friendships, showcasing a compassionate side to his character. Benvenuti was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1992.
As an amateur, Benvenuti held an impressive record of 119 wins and only one loss, culminating in his Olympic gold medal. Turning professional in 1961, he achieved a record of 82 wins, 7 losses, and 1 draw, including 35 knockouts, and won the world light middleweight championship and the world middleweight championship twice before retiring in 1971.
Reflecting on his Olympic victory, Benvenuti emphasized its lasting significance, stating, “Because it lasts forever.” He acknowledged the recognition of being named the top boxer at the Rome Games gained greater meaning as he witnessed Muhammad Ali’s rise in the boxing world.
Born Giovanni Benvenuti on April 26, 1938, in what was then Isola d’Istria, Italy, he began boxing at age 11 and traveled to participate in amateur bouts. After retiring, he ventured into acting, opened a restaurant, worked as a television commentator, and briefly served as a city councilman in Trieste. His relationships with Griffith and Monzon exemplified his loyalty, with Benvenuti supporting both men during their respective struggles.
Details regarding Benvenuti’s survivors are not currently available. He was reportedly married twice, with his second wife, Nadia Bertorello, passing away in 2023. Benvenuti once expressed that a more stable love life could have extended his championship reign.
In a 2016 interview, Benvenuti identified Sugar Ray Robinson as the best fighter he faced, although he humorously noted that their encounter occurred only in a vivid dream.