Despite his many talents, Alex Higgins was a notorious character. His volatile temperament, frequent arguments and unpredictable personality made him a controversial figure. His uninhibited lifestyle was noticed by the national press. He wasn't considered a "right kind"
Steve James defeated Alex Higgins during the 1990 World Snooker Championship. After winning the semifinal, he beat Ray Reardon 18-15 to win his final. Higgins became the first person to qualify for four consecutive semifinals. In the final, he lost to Jimmy White, who was in the semi-final, while Davy Ferguson was in the final.
During his career, Alex Higgins had long-term problems with alcohol and smoking. In 1998, Higgins was also diagnosed in his throat with cancer. He played snooker throughout his life and in 2006, became the first Irish player with the world title.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins was a skilled shotmaker during his prime. Higgins was also a bold character as shown by his open-necked shirt. He was often accompanied by a pall bearer. He was also a keen smoker, and in 2006 he joined more 200 smokers in suing Benson & Hedges (a snooker sponsor).
Higgins was addicted to alcohol, cocaine, and gambling throughout his career. He was also stabbed by his ex-girlfriend Holly Haise, who claimed to have stabbed him three times in the arm. He also lost his battle with throat carcinoma, which complicated his life. He died in 2010 at age 61. His funeral was held in St Anne's Cathedral Belfast.
Alex "Hurricane” Higgins earned a reputation for being reckless and anti-heroic. He was a wild character and difficult to work with. He was actually expelled from the popular snooker TV channel Pot Black due to his frequent problems with the authorities.
Higgins was often out of the country, and he lived on the edge of danger. Lynn Higgins, his wife was once overcome with emotion after he won matches. Lauren, Higgins' daughter, was brought onto the Crucible stage following the World Championship. He was also involved in a brawl and threatened to shoot fellow player Dennis Taylor in the World Cup earlier that season. He was not able to prove he hurt anyone, so the police investigation was dropped.
Higgins was an often controversial figure, as shown by his frequent arguments or alcohol consumption. Higgins was a regular user of cocaine, and had been told he had throat cancer. He was also unable to cope with all the attention. He had no manager and was often captivated by the audience. However, when his talent was on display, he was a box office draw.
Alex "Hurricane" was a fast shotmaker who had a great talent, but was always undermined by his talent. He was an anti-hero and a rebel. He fought and won against the best players in the world, but always had an air of menace about him.