The boxing world and the community of Alghero are mourning the death of Mario Ballone , two-time Italian boxing champion and master coach of Alghero-born professional boxer Marcello Manca. He passed away quietly after a long illness.

Coach of many young people who have approached the sporting activity of the noble art, Ballone throughout his career has trained several athletes to whom he has been able to transmit passion and discipline .

During his sporting career he won two Italian titles in the national team, of which he had been a member since 1972 , he won five regional championships, fighting 57 amateur matches, of which 52 victories and four defeats, with only one match ending in a draw.

Just a month ago, in Civitavecchia, he celebrated the title of world free boxing champion .

Messages of condolences have poured in from the boxing world and beyond. "Have a good trip, Mario Ballone. You fought like a lion and always with a smile," wrote boxing instructor Maurizio Muretti of Sassari. "Until yesterday, I was hoping you could do it again this time, and when I whispered in your ear that you're my hero and my idol, I hoped you'd open your eyes," wrote athlete Floriana Incani.

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