Boxing promoter Dan Goossen dies of cancer

Long time Southern California boxing promoter Dan Goossen has died of liver cancer according to a statement released this morning from the Goossen family. The news came as a shock to both fans and media, most of whom were unaware that he was ill.

Goossen promoted such stars as Andre Ward, Chris Arreola, and Paul Williams, although he recently had been in litigation with Ward over their contractual dispute.

Arrangements are pending and details will be announced in the next few days.

"It is with overwhelming regret that we announce the passing of Dan Goossen, 64, from complications relating to liver cancer," said the Goossen family in their statement. "The sudden news of his diagnosis was very much a private matter and his final days were spent surrounded by his family and closest friends. Sadness is difficult to escape as we grieve his passing, however we are filled with pride by the fact that Dan Goossen battled this aggressive illness with boundless strength and the last days of his life were fought and lived with unflinching bravery, pure love and grace beyond measure."

Goossen successfully promoted two local heavyweight title bouts involving Arreola, first against Vitali Klitschko at the Staples Center, and secondly, against Bermane Stiverne at USC's Galen Center.  Moreover, he ran a family operation, as his brother Joe Goossen served as a trainer for many of the promotional company's fighters.

Goossen was a well-respected person in boxing circles, who would frequently be seen on fight night wearing his flashy-colored suits. Among the media, he was well-liked, as he treated journalists, including those from this publication, with respect.

“All of us at Showtime are deeply saddened by the passing of Dan Goossen," said Stephen Espinoza in a statement on behalf of Showtime Sports. "This news has come as a shock to many of us who knew Dan personally, beyond our collaborative work on boxing events, for decades. We will remember Dan as a passionate advocate for the sport of boxing, a fun-loving colleague and friend, and, above all, a devoutly religious family man. Our deepest sympathies to the entire Goossen family. May he rest in peace.”

By Staff of TheDailySportsHerald.com and news services