Pernell Whitaker, also known as "Sweet Pea," was born on January 2, 1964. Standing at a height of 168cm with a reach of 175cm, Whitaker was a force to be reckoned with in the world of boxing. As a southpaw, he was known for his slick and elusive style inside the ring.

Whitaker competed in multiple weight classes throughout his career, showcasing his versatility and skill. From the smaller weight classes such as Minimumweight, Light Flyweight, and Flyweight, to the higher weight classes like Welterweight, Middleweight, and even Heavyweight, Whitaker proved that he could hold his own against any opponent, regardless of size.

One of Whitaker's greatest attributes was his defensive prowess. He had a knack for slipping punches with incredible head movement and footwork. His ability to make opponents miss while simultaneously countering with pinpoint accuracy earned him the nickname "Sweet Pea." He was like a ghost in the ring, making his opponents swing at air while he landed clean shots.

But it wasn't just his defensive skills that made Whitaker a force in the ring. He also possessed exceptional offensive abilities. His hand speed, combined with his sharp punching technique, allowed him to deliver lightning-fast combinations that left his opponents bewildered.

Throughout his career, Whitaker faced some of the best fighters of his generation. He took on the likes of Roger Mayweather, Julio Cesar Chavez, and Oscar De La Hoya, just to name a few. In each of these fights, Whitaker showcased his ability to adapt to different styles and emerge victorious.

One of the most memorable moments of Whitaker's career came in his fight against Julio Cesar Chavez in 1993. Many boxing fans and analysts believed Whitaker had done enough to win the bout, but it ended in a controversial draw. Despite the decision not going in his favor, Whitaker proved that he could hang with anyone in the ring.

Whitaker's boxing career spanned over 17 years, with his last professional fight taking place in 2001. Throughout his career, he amassed an impressive record of 40 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw. Of those 40 victories, 17 came by way of knockout, showcasing his ability to finish fights.

After retiring from the sport, Whitaker remained involved in boxing as a trainer and commentator. He passed on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of fighters, leaving a lasting impact on the sport he loved.

Tragically, Pernell Whitaker's life was cut short on July 14, 2019, when he was struck and killed by a car while crossing a street in Virginia Beach. The boxing world mourned the loss of a true legend.

Whitaker's legacy as one of the greatest defensive fighters in boxing history will always be remembered. His unique style and remarkable skills inside the ring set him apart from his peers. He was an artist, weaving through punches and delivering his own with precision.

So, whenever you think of boxing's greats, make sure to include "Sweet Pea" Pernell Whitaker in that conversation. He may be gone, but his impact on the sport will never be forgotten.