Kevin Barry Obituary: Celebrated New Zealand Boxer, Coach, and Olympic Medalist Passes Away at 65
LAS VEGAS, NV — April 16, 2025 — The global boxing community is mourning the death of Kevin Michael Joseph Barry, a legendary New Zealand boxer, trainer, and manager, who passed away at the age of 65. Born on October 10, 1959, in Christchurch, New Zealand, Barry’s influence spanned generations and continents. His death marks the end of an era in both New Zealand’s sports history and the wider world of international boxing.
The cause of death has been confirmed as natural causes, following a brief illness. Barry died peacefully surrounded by family at his home in Las Vegas, Nevada, where he had lived and worked for several decades as a sought-after boxing coach and manager.
Kevin Barry rose to international fame during his amateur career, notably securing a silver medal at the 1984 Olympic Games in Los Angeles in the light heavyweight division. His historic win, which came after a controversial disqualification of Evander Holyfield, made him the first New Zealander in 56 years to earn an Olympic boxing medal. He also claimed a bronze medal at the 1982 Commonwealth Games in Brisbane, cementing his place as one of New Zealand’s premier boxing talents.
Beyond his achievements in the ring, Barry became a revered figure as a boxing trainer and manager. His partnership with David Tua, a fellow New Zealander and 1992 Olympic bronze medalist, was one of the most celebrated in boxing history. Under Barry’s guidance from 1992 to 2003, Tua rose through the professional ranks and famously challenged Lennox Lewis for the World Heavyweight Title in 2000.
Barry’s coaching résumé extended far beyond New Zealand. Based in Las Vegas, he mentored numerous professional fighters and worked with elite athletes, business executives, and fitness enthusiasts. His deep boxing intellect, strategic mind, and calm demeanor in the corner made him one of the sport’s most respected voices. He was also a regular commentator on New Zealand boxing broadcasts, offering expert analysis and insight rooted in decades of experience.
Kevin Barry is survived by his devoted wife, Tanya Moss, a former Olympic gymnast for New Zealand, and their three children: daughter Jordy, and twin sons Taylor and Mitchell. He is also survived by his father, Kevin Barry Sr., a renowned boxing trainer in his own right, and his son Taylor Barry, who continues the family’s boxing legacy as an accomplished trainer.
The Barry family has expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of condolences and tributes from the global boxing community, athletes, and fans alike. In a brief statement, the family shared:
“Kevin lived a life of passion, commitment, and love—not only for boxing but for the people he trained and supported. His legacy will live on through his family, his fighters, and the many lives he touched across the world.”
Barry’s impact extended well beyond titles and medals. As a mentor, strategist, and friend, he nurtured talent and inspired dedication in everyone he coached. His philosophy emphasized discipline, humility, and resilience — qualities that will remain synonymous with his name.
Funeral arrangements and memorial services are currently being planned and will be held in both Las Vegas and Christchurch, allowing those across the world to pay their respects. Additional details will be released in the coming days.
In lieu of flowers, the Barry family has requested donations be made to youth boxing development programs in New Zealand, continuing Kevin’s mission to uplift and empower the next generation of fighters.
