Imotski unveils monument to boxing legend Mate Parlov

A bronze monument has been unveiled in Imotski to honor Mate Parlov, widely regarded as one of the greatest Croatian athletes of the 20th century and a legendary boxer from the former Yugoslavia. The 3.5-meter statue, depicted in a winning pose, is located near the entrance to Gospin dolac, close to where Parlov spent his childhood.

Parlov’s amateur career included winning Olympic gold in Munich (1972), the European Championship (1973), and the World Championship (1974). In the professional ranks, he became the European professional champion in 1976 and the world professional champion in 1978. He finished his professional career with 24 wins, including 12 knockouts, two draws, and three losses.

During the ceremony, friends and family recalled his character, describing him as a “soft-hearted” individual who was a protector of others. Mićo Kapisoda, a long-time friend, reflected on their bond dating back to their military service in Belgrade in 1973 and noted Parlov’s humanitarian spirit, including his desire to hold a charity match following the 1979 earthquake in Montenegro.