Boris Spassky was a prominent figure in the world of chess, holding the World Chess Champion title from 1969 to 1972. He was known for his skill and sportsmanship. His 1972 match against Bobby Fischer became a symbol of the Cold War rivalry. - Boris Spassky, the Russian chess grandmaster and tenth World Chess Champion, has died at the age of 88. - Spassky held the World Chess Champion title from 1969 to 1972, after defeating Tigran Petrosian. - He is widely remembered for his 1972 'Match of the Century' against American Bobby Fischer in Reykjavík, Iceland, which he lost. - Spassky later took French nationality in 1978. - The International Chess Federation (FIDE) announced his death.