John Lyttle

Belfast-born heavyweight boxer John Lyttle represented Ireland at the 1952 Olympics and lost his opening bout against Jean Lansiaux of France. In a fierce all-action battle, Lyttle lost on a split decision. The Frenchman received so much punishment, however, that he too could take no further part in the tournament. In the months leading up to Helsinki, Lyttle represented Ireland in the international matches against Great Britain and the USA. In the latter he lost on points to Ed Sanders who, three months later, won Olympic gold.

In 1953 Lyttle won his only Irish heavyweight title when he beat Jim Robinson for the title vacated after the retirement of Gerry Ó Colmáin, its holder from 1946-52. Lyttle turned professional in 1954 and in his first year in the paid ranks won seven of his eight contests. After a brief spell in hospital with kidney problems in 1997, Lyttle died at the age of 66. His cousin Oliver Lyttle was also a prominent Belfast middleweight professional boxer.