The boxing world is in mourning following the recent passing of Hall of Fame fighter Dwight Muhammad Qawi, who died on Friday, July 25, 2025, at the age of 72 after a five-year battle with dementia. Known as “The Camden Buzzsaw,” Qawi’s remarkable journey from prison to becoming a two-weight world champion is a testament to his incredible resilience and fighting spirit.
Born Dwight Braxton in Baltimore on January 5, 1953, Qawi grew up in Camden, New Jersey. His path to boxing was unconventional, as he first laced up gloves while serving a sentence for armed robbery at Rahway State Prison. Upon his release in 1978 at the age of 25, he wasted no time turning professional, quickly making a name for himself with his aggressive, relentless style.
Qawi’s career highlights are marked by a series of thrilling and significant victories. In December 1981, still fighting as Dwight Braxton, he captured his first world title, stopping fellow Hall of Famer Matthew Saad Muhammad in the 10th round to win the WBC light heavyweight belt. He solidified his claim to the title by defeating Saad Muhammad again in a six-round rematch eight months later.
In 1982, following his conversion to Islam, he legally changed his name to Dwight Muhammad Qawi. After a unification bout loss to Michael Spinks, the 5-foot-7 Qawi moved up in weight to the cruiserweight division. In July 1985, he claimed his second world title, defeating Piet Crous for the WBA cruiserweight championship.
One of his most memorable fights came in July 1986, when he faced a rising star named Evander Holyfield in a grueling 15-round battle for the WBA cruiserweight title. Though Qawi ultimately lost a split decision in what is considered one of the greatest cruiserweight fights of all time, the bout showcased his incredible heart and determination. He retired in 1998 with a professional record of 41-11-1 with 25 knockouts.
Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2004, Qawi’s legacy extends beyond the ring. After his retirement, he dedicated his time to working as a boxing trainer, youth advocate, and drug and alcohol counselor, using his own life story to inspire others to overcome adversity.
Dwight Muhammad Qawi’s life was a powerful narrative of redemption and triumph, and his impact on the sport of boxing, both inside and outside the ropes, will be remembered for generations to come.
