FORMER world bantamweight champion Alphonse Halimi has died aged 74, French boxing officials say.

Born in Constantine, Algeria, the 25-year-old Halimi won the world crown for France in his 17th fight outpointing Italy's Mario a'Agata over 15 rounds in April, 1957.

He held on to the title for two years but eventually lost it in a title defence to Mexican Joe Becerra in Los Angeles.

One of his most famous fights came in 1960 when he defeated England's Freddy Gilroy over 15 rounds for the European title.

“Today I have avenged the death of Jeanne d'Arc,” he told a stunned press conference.

Halimi had been suffering in recent years from Alzheimer's Disease and developed pneumonia in June.

Former boxing champion Alphonse Halimi dies