The news that Rubin "Hurricane" Carter had died triggered swift reaction Sunday, largely from those recalling the boxer's wrongful murder conviction as immortalized in music by Bob Dylan in 1975 and on the screen in a 1999 movie starring Denzel Washington.
Carter spent 19 years in prison for three murders in Paterson, N.J., following convictions in 1966 and 1976. Carter was freed in November 1985 when the convictions were set aside.
Although never a world champion, Carter went 27-12-1 with 19 knockouts -- including stopping Emile Griffith in the first round in 1963. The murder convictions derailed his middleweight career and eventually triggered activism by numerous legal experts and celebrities on his behalf.
Here's a sampling of reactions Sunday, including a link to Dylan's song (Advisory: The lyrics include language that some may find objectionable):
RIP, Hurricane Carter. What a job by Selwyn Raab memorializing his life: http://t.co/uPoQM6pBSN
— Peter King (@SI_PeterKing) April 20, 2014
MORE: Carter's ordeal was publicized in Bob Dylan's song 'Hurricane,' books and a film starring Denzel Washington: http://t.co/bgCa6MLdbG
— The Associated Press (@AP) April 20, 2014
RIP Rubin "Hurricane" Carter. His story is told in one of Bob Dylan's best songs. http://t.co/HTISv3Skzi
— Becky Griffin (@dorothyofisrael) April 20, 2014
“@Mannysaur: @rosieperezbklyn Hey I just read that Rubin "Hurricane" Carter passed away.” TY. Just heard. What a testament he lived. #rip.
— Rosie Perez (@rosieperezbklyn) April 20, 2014
