Murray Sutherland

Murray Sutherland (born 10 April 1953) is a Scottish former boxer who fought in the super middleweight division. He was boxing's first world super middleweight champion, having won the inaugural IBF's version in 1984. Sutherland is also a successful boxing trainer, having trained well known boxers such as Eric Esch (sometimes known as "Butterbean") and Rocky Gannon.

Professional career

Sutherland turned professional in 1977 and compiled a record of 27–5 before facing WBC light heavyweight champion Matthew Saad Muhammad, for the world title. Sutherland would go on to lose via a controversial 9th round stoppage. He would get a second opportunity at a world title a year later, this time unsuccessfully challenging WBA light heavyweight champion Michael Spinks. Sutherland would get yet another shot at a world title in 1984 & this time would be on the winning side, outpointing Ernie Singletary to win the inaugural IBF super middleweight world title.

Professional boxing record

Personal On 21 May 1983, Sutherland and wife Stormi had a son, who had to stay in the hospital for a few days. He had a fight against Jean Marie Emebe six days later in Rhode Island. Sutherland used his newborn son's struggle to live as inspiration and won the contest by a ninth-round knockout. His son was later released.

In the summer of 1985, he and wife Stormi had another child, a girl.