By Allan Fox: According to fightnews.com, former WBO heavyweight champion Corrie Sanders (42-4, 31 KO’s) was reportedly shot and killed on Saturday in Pretoria, South Africa. Sanders, 46, suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen and later died in the hospital following surgery.

The 6’4″ southpaw Sanders was known for his fast hands and incredible power. He very dangerous for any fighter, especially early on in his fights when he strong. Because of his speed, size and southpaw stance, it was very difficult for his opponents to make it past 2nd round against Sanders.

Sanders destroyed WBO heavyweight champion Wladimir Klitschko by a 2nd round TKO in March 2003. Sanders lost the title in his next fight against Wladimir’s old brother Vitali Klitschko by an 8th round stoppage, but not before giving Vitali a lot of problems in the first five rounds. Interestingly enough, Wladimir never attempted to avenge his loss to Sanders for some reason. The way that Sanders dominated Wladimir seems to suggest that Wladimir would likely have lost again had he attempted to avenge his defeat.

Sanders has wins over Bobby Czyz, Ross Puritty, Bert Cooper and Carlos De Leon.