Despite several reports to the contrary, a family representative for Detroit boxing icon Emanuel Steward says he is not dead, although he has been suffering from an illness for months.

TMZ reported the news, then quickly took the article down from their site once rumor got around that the information was false. It has since been reported by several media outlets, much to the grief and worry of his fans and family.

Diane Steward-Jones, Steward’s sister, made a comment on the reports to WXYZ news, saying, “You can tell folks that he is alive and being treated by some of the best experts in the world. The Steward family is dismayed and greatly disheartened and disappointed that during this personally challenging time, people would callously and thoughtlessly run wild with untrue statements in order to garner their ’15 minutes of fame.’ Where is the moral compass of those seeking to capitalize on this situation? Does anybody take the time to check out the facts anymore? Many of those issuing reckless statements have our phone numbers as well as Emanuel’s office number and yet, they haven’t called, just issued statements that are terrorizing Emanuel’s children, siblings and relatives that aren’t able to be here at the hospital. SHAME ON THEM! He has feelings and we, his family, have feelings. Consider that and give us our privacy to help our loved ones.”

The 68-year old is a beloved figure in the boxing world, having trained such greats as Oscar de la Hoya and Thomas Hearns. He has also served as an analyst for HBO’s boxing coverage for several years. We will update this article as any new information is available as to his well-being.