THE boxing world has paid tribute to matchmaker Dean Powell, who died after being hit by a train at New Cross Gate station yesterday (September 10).

Mr Powell was seen as boxing promoter Frank Warren's right-hand man, working with big names like Joe Calzaghe, Nigel Benn and Lennox Lewis.

Mr Warren said in a statement last night: "All of us are deeply saddened and shocked by the loss of our very close friend and colleague, Dean Powell. 

"Dean was a valued and popular member of our team and within the sport of boxing and our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones for their tragic loss."

The 47-year-old moved to London from Dudley in the 1908s, where he worked at the famous Thomas A Becket gym on the Old Kent Road before its eventual closure.

Since news of his sudden death broke, boxing stars past and present have been going online to pay their respects and voice their shock at the death of a much-loved figure.

Amir Khan wrote: "My thoughts and prayers go out to his family. He was close to team Khan and trained me for 2 fights. You will be missed."

Joe Calzaghe tweeted: "Shocked and saddened to hear the news of Dean Powell. Was in my corner for many of my big fights. RIP Dean x"

And Derek Chisora wrote: "Rest in peace Dean. Boxing will miss you."

The London Ambulance Service was called to the station yesterday at 11.15am where the man, named locally as Mr Powell, was pronounced dead at the scene.

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