News of the death of Mihai Leu (also known as Michael Lowe) at the age of 57 has prompted an outpouring of tributes.
Mihai Leu, a former Romanian boxing world champion, successfully transitioned to a second career as a rally driver.
According to reports from Bild, Leu passed away in Romania after a fight with cancer.
From 1991 to 1997, he maintained an undefeated record in his professional boxing career, winning all 28 bouts, including 10 by knockout.
His skill and success led him to become a world champion.
In February 1997, he won the WBO welterweight world championship by defeating Santiago Samaniego.
He defended his title successfully in September of the same year against Ireland`s Michael Carruth.
However, he ended his boxing career, retiring as one of only three undefeated European world champions of his era, alongside Jack McAuliffe and Terry Marsh.
The hand injury sustained in his final bout was the reason he had to cease boxing completely.
Reluctant to leave the world of sports entirely, he pivoted to focus full-time on rally car driving, a sport he had first competed in back in 1994.
Just three years after committing to rally driving full-time in 1997, Leu achieved the title of Romania`s rally vice-champion.
By 2003, he had become the national rally champion.
He retired from professional racing in 2008 but returned to the sport in 2010 as a team manager.
In 2014, he successfully overcame a battle with colon cancer after receiving surgery in Bucharest and treatment in Vienna.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Anna, and their son, Marco.
Among those paying tribute was the President of Romania, Nicusor Dan, who shared his condolences on social media.
He stated: “I received the news of Mihai Leu`s passing with profound sadness.
“Romania has lost not only an exceptional champion with an impressive sporting record but also an honourable man who inspired others through his courage, passion, and integrity.
“His public persona consistently embodied uprightness and respect for genuine values.
“He will forever be remembered as a true legend and a standard for dignity both in sports and in life.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones.”
Kickboxing Romania also paid their respects, saying, “Rest In Peace, Mihai Leu!”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania added: “Romania has lost a tenacious athlete who will forever remain a legend of the ring.
“Mihai Leu, our first professional boxing world champion, has passed away. Thank you for everything you contributed to Romanian sports. Rest in peace, champion!”
Oliver Croft