FIGHTERS OF THE 20th CENTURY - The Boxing Exchange

THE CAREER OF JOEY GIARDELLO

GIARDELLO STATUE DEDICATION July 21, 2025 Dick Tiger, left, and Joey Giardello pose before one of their four epic bouts. Remembering the Career OF Joey Giardello Thanks to the members of Ring 1 and South Philly Boxing for celebrating Joey Giardello’s birthday (he would have been 95) on July 21st at Nior Restaurant, located in the neighborhood where his statue is erected and where he grew up. The statue was dedicated on May 21st, 2012. Born Carmine Orlando Tilelli on July 16, 1930, in Brooklyn, NY. He adopted the name Joey Giardello to enlist in the U.S. Army underage, using the identity of a cousin’s friend. Served in the Army during WWII and boxed while in service. After his discharge in 1948, he turned pro and settled in South Philadelphia, where he maintained this persona throughout his boxing career. Snapshot of Career Early pro fights (1948–1950) featured mostly journeymen opponents. His first setbacks came against Joe DiMartino and other lesser-known boxers. A notorious New York commission incident involved his fight against Billy Graham, where the decision was reversed twice, eventually restored in court as Giardello’s win. It’s referred to as “The reversed reversal” in boxing lore. First title shot: April 20, 1960, against Gene Fullmer, which ended in a grueling 15-round draw. In 1962, beat Henry Hank in a fight named Ring Magazine’s Fight of the Year. On June 24, 1963, he shocked the boxing world by defeating Sugar Ray Robinson at age 33—a performance that earned him top contender status against Dick Tiger. December 7, 1963: Won the WBA/WBC/The Ring middleweight title by defeating Dick Tiger in Atlantic City via 15-round decision. Championship Reign. Held the world middleweight championship from late 1963 to October 1965, defending the title four times December 14, 1964: Defended his title against “Hurricane” Rubin Carter in Philadelphia. Despite Carter’s early dominance, Giardello rallied to win unanimously. The fight was later mischaracterized in the 1999 film The Hurricane, leading Giardello to sue over its portrayal; the case was settled out of court. Lost his title to Dick Tiger in a rematch on October 21, 1965, after struggling with weight-cutting and conditioning challenges, as documented by chronic weight issues toward the end of his reign Final Fights & Retirement After his title loss, Giardello had just four more fights through 1967, including a decision loss to rising prospect Jack Rodgers, before retiring for good with a record 101–25–7 (with one no contest) and 33 KOs. Life After Boxing & Recognition Post-boxing, he returned to his birth name and worked as an insurance agent and distributor. He was also active in charitable causes, especially working with intellectually disabled communities, inspired by his son Carmine Jr., who had Down syndrome. Received several honors: International Boxing Hall of Fame induction in 1993. Philadelphia Sports Hall of Fame induction (posthumous) in 2009. A statue erected in South Philly at Passyunk Ave. / 13th / Mifflin streets to immortalize the boxer beloved by his city. Giardello passed away on September 4, 2008, at age 78 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. He had battled congestive heart failure and diabetes. He left behind his wife Rosalie, four sons, and a lasting legacy in boxing and his community. Thanks to: Passyunk Gym Phillyboxinghistory.com Joey Eyes

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Blood & Hate the “Marvelous” Marvin Untold Story

FIGHTERS OF THE 20th CENTURY / James

“Blood and Hate” by Dave Wedge Marvelous Marvin Hagler was one of boxing’s most formidable and respected middleweight champions, known for his granite chin, southpaw stance, and relentless fighting style. Most people know Marvelous Marvin Hagler from his epic battles against Thomas Hearns and John Mugabi, as well as his controversial split-decision loss to Sugar Ray Leonard. However, it is his escape from riot-torn Newark in the late 1960s, the unbreakable bond he formed with the Petronelli brothers, and his 1980 title fight against Britain’s Alan Minter that captures the real story of Hagler. After the controversial draw against Vito Antefuermo in 1979, Hagler went on a dominant run and didn’t lose another bout till another controversial decision, a loss to Sugar Ray Leonard in 1987. Go behind the scenes of the epic battles in “Blood & Hate.” Book available on Amazon Hardcover/Paperback Marvelous Marvin Hagler’s Classic Fights Hagler vs. Thomas “Hitman” Hearns (April 15, 1985). Dubbed “The War,” this three-round blaze of violence is often called the most incredible short fight in boxing history. From the opening bell, both men launched bombs, but it was Hagler who withstood the punishment, opened a cut, and finished Hearns with a devastating right hand. The fight lasted just 8 minutes, but its legend is eternal. Hagler vs. Roberto Durán (November 10, 1983) A chess match compared to “The War,” this bout showed Hagler’s discipline. Durán became the first man to go the complete 15 rounds with him as champion. Marvin won a close but unanimous decision, retaining his title and adding another Hall of Famer to his resume. Hagler vs. John “The Beast” Mugabi (March 10, 1986). This was a brutal war of attrition. Mugabi entered 25–0 with 25 knockouts, but Hagler dragged him into deep waters, showing veteran composure and a relentless pace before stopping him in the 11th. It was Hagler’s final win—and some say his last great performance. Hagler vs. Sugar Ray Leonard (April 6, 1987): The Controversial Capstone. Leonard used movement, speed, and flurries to win a split decision that many still debate. Hagler, disgusted with the politics of boxing, walked away—never to return. Book Launch: Blood and Hate by Dave Wedge in conversation with Rosie Perez – POWERHOUSE Arena BOOK LAUNCH JULY 16th

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The Prowess of Mike MacCallum

FIGHTERS OF THE 20th CENTURY / James

THE PROWESS OF MIKE McCALLUM Textbook boxing was the name of the game. J. Monte Mike McCallum, known as “The Bodysnatcher,” was a legendary Jamaican boxer who held world titles in three different weight classes. He was the first Jamaican to win a world title in 1984, defeating Sean Mannion at Madison Square Garden. Over his career, he fought 55 times, winning 49 bouts, with 36 victories by knockout. His exceptional body-punching ability earned him his famous nickname. But body punching was one of many skills McCallum possessed — he had an incredible jab, textbook balance, and pinpoint accuracy. Mike’s footwork was always in position, ready for the offensive assault while awaiting a counterpunch. His career was defining, a Hall of Fame career, no doubt; yet, as a fighter, he fell between the cracks of fame and high-figure paydays. His battle of attrition with Donald Curry in 1987 ended with a looping left hook, another asset he utilized when needed. His three fights with James Toney were nip-and-tuck, highly skilled affairs that the boxing public demands, yet are seldom satisfied. McCallum was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003 and was widely regarded as one of the greatest middleweight fighters of his era. Sadly, he passed away on May 31, 2025, after falling ill while driving to the gym in Las Vegas. McCallum’s style was built on precision and patience. He wasn’t the fastest or the most potent boxer, but his ability to dissect opponents with well-placed shots made him one of the most feared fighters of his era. His left hook to the body was particularly lethal, often setting up knockouts or forcing opponents to slow down due to accumulated damage. He was also known for his resilience—despite facing some of the world’s best fighters, he was never knocked out in his professional career. His fights against legends like James Toney, Donald Curry, and Julian Jackson showcased his ability to adapt and outmaneuver aggressive opponents. McCallum’s defensive skills were equally impressive. He had a strong chin and excellent head movement, enabling him to absorb punches without taking excessive damage. His ability to control the pace of a fight and dictate exchanges made him a nightmare for anyone who stepped into the ring with him. Top fights of Mike’s career Mike McCallum vs. Julian Jackson (1986) – McCallum faced the hard-hitting Julian Jackson, who was undefeated at the time. Despite Jackson’s power, McCallum stopped him in the second round, proving his defensive mastery and ability to withstand heavy punches. Mike McCallum vs. Milton McCrory (1987) – McCallum defended his WBA super-welterweight title by stopping McCrory in the 10th round, showcasing his ability to break down opponents over time. Mike McCallum vs. Donald Curry (1987) – McCallum knocked out Curry in the fifth round with a perfectly timed left hook, cementing his reputation as one of the best body punchers in boxing history. Mike McCallum vs. James Toney (1991) – This was the first fight in their trilogy, ending in a controversial draw. McCallum’s technical ability and body shots challenged Toney, making it one of the most competitive fights of his career. Mike McCallum vs. James Toney (1992) – Their rematch was another intense battle, with Toney winning by majority decision. McCallum’s ability to adapt and challenge Toney made this fight a classic. I first encountered McCallum after he defeated Ross D’Amico in the amateurs in the late 1970s. D’Amico had been a classmate at La Salle Academy High School in Manhattan and was considered a rising star in the amateur ranks, garnering coverage on the local network. Little did I know then that the fighter who defeated Ross would become a top-ranked world boxer ten years later. I also met him through the years, thanks to the sponsorship of Spartan and its owner, Ed Post, who had dressed him numerous times in his career. Mike was training fighters at the famous Tocco’s gym, then moved over to Mayweather’s gym when Tocco’s closed. He had been living in Las Vegas for several years. Mike McCallum’s boxing record Mike McCallum Wiki -JLM- https://youtu.be/FbW-vNhquwY?si=bxhnEdcH2lWMpC6v Boxing Kid Management’s David Selwyn WITH Mike McCallum 1989

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Johnny Coulon 1910

FIGHTERS OF THE 20th CENTURY / James

Coulon, left, with Muhammad Ali/ approx 1970 “The Cherry Picker from Logan Square” Johnny Coulon 1910 https://youtu.be/92GevoyKbHg?si=hoOZK_TIP0_woSGI World bantamweight champion 1910-1914. Chicago, IL. The “Unliftable Man” Johnny Coulon was a Canadian-American professional boxer. He was born on February 12, 1889, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and soon moved to Chicago, Illinois. He was known as the world bantamweight champion from March 6, 1910, until June 3, 1914. Due to his boxing style and his roots in Chicago, Coulon earned the nickname “The Cherry Picker from Logan Square.” Coulon had an impressive boxing record with 67 wins, 31 by knockout, 11 losses, 12 draws, and one no-contest out of 91 professional fights. He was also known for his unique ability to resist being lifted off the ground by larger opponents, which he demonstrated in vaudeville shows after he retired from boxing. Johnny Coulon’s boxing career was quite remarkable. He began his professional career in 1905 and quickly rose through the ranks. Coulon became the world bantamweight champion on March 6, 1910, after defeating Frankie Conley in a 20-round bout. He successfully defended his title multiple times until he lost it to Kid Williams on June 3, 1914. After retiring from boxing, Coulon became popular in physical culture and fitness. He ran a gym in Chicago and trained many boxers and athletes. Coulon also gained fame for his “unliftable” trick, where he challenged people to lift him off the ground. Despite his small stature, he used a clever technique involving balance and body positioning to make himself incredibly difficult to lift. Coulon’s contributions to boxing and his unique post-retirement performances made him a well-respected and beloved figure in the sports community. Coulon was also a boxing manager; most notable was Hall of Famer and former light welterweight champion Eddie Perkins. He continued to be involved in boxing and physical fitness until his passing in 1973. One of Johnny Coulon’s most famous fights was his bout against Frankie Conley on March 6, 1910, in Vernon, California, for the world bantamweight title. Coulon won the match and secured the championship by stopping Conley in the 19th round of a 20-round fight. His victory in this bout marked a significant milestone in his career and solidified his reputation as a top bantamweight boxer. Coulon was known for his dedication and discipline in terms of training methods. He emphasized the importance of physical fitness, proper diet, and rigorous training routines. Coulon’s training regimen included a combination of roadwork (long-distance running), shadow boxing, bag work, and sparring. He also focused on strength and conditioning exercises to build endurance and power. Coulon’s philosophy on training extended beyond just physical preparation. He believed in the mental aspect of boxing and often spoke about the importance of confidence and strategic thinking in the ring. His approach to training and his success as a boxer made him a sought-after trainer and mentor for other fighters. More on Coulon: The Secret of Johnny Coulon, the “Unliftable Man” Johnny Coulon – Wikipedia Johnny Coulon.

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The Prominence of Carlos Ortiz

FIGHTERS OF THE 20th CENTURY / James

The Prominence of Carlos Ortiz Carlos Ortiz was one of the prominent Puerto Rican boxers and is often regarded as one of the best lightweight fighters in boxing history. His career, which spanned from 1955 to 1972, was marked by exceptional skill, intelligence, and tactical prowess inside the ring. Here’s an overview of his career: Early Life and Career Beginnings Birthdate: September 9, 1936 Birthplace: Ponce, Puerto Rico Ortiz began boxing as a teenager, and after a successful amateur career, he made his professional debut in 1955. Early in his career, Ortiz fought primarily in the junior welterweight division (140 lbs), showcasing his speed and technique. Rise to Prominence Ortiz quickly gained recognition for his boxing abilities. His early career was marked by a series of wins that established him as a top contender in the lightweight and junior welterweight divisions. First World Title (Junior Welterweight): In 1959, Carlos Ortiz won his first world title, defeating Kenny Lane for the vacant junior welterweight championship. This victory marked the beginning of Ortiz’s dominance in the lighter weight classes. Lightweight Division Success After some time in the junior welterweight division, Ortiz moved down to the lightweight division (135 lbs), which would become the primary division where he achieved most of his legendary status. First Lightweight World Title: In 1962, Ortiz became the lightweight champion by defeating Joe “Old Bones” Brown, a respected and skilled champion, with a 15-round unanimous decision. This win cemented Ortiz’s place as the world’s top lightweight. Defending His Title and Reigning as Champion Ortiz defended his lightweight title multiple times throughout the 1960s. He fought some of the best fighters of his era, using his technical skills, sharp counterpunching, and intelligence in the ring to outsmart opponents. Notable Fights: Battles with Ismael Laguna: Ortiz had a famous rivalry with fellow lightweight Ismael Laguna. In their first fight in 1965, Laguna won the title from Ortiz in Panama, but Ortiz regained the title later that same year in a rematch. These fights were significant in Ortiz’s career, highlighting his ability to adapt and regain his title. Fight with Sugar Ramos: In 1966, Ortiz successfully defended his title against Sugar Ramos, a former featherweight champion, further establishing his reign as one of the best lightweights of his generation. Later Career and Retirement Second Title Loss: In 1968, Ortiz lost his lightweight title to Carlos Teo Cruz in a closely contested bout, marking the beginning of the end of his championship reign. Retirement: After a couple more fights, Ortiz officially retired in 1972, ending a stellar 17-year career with a record of 61 wins (30 by knockout), 7 losses, and 1 draw. Legacy Carlos Ortiz is remembered as one of the finest lightweight champions in boxing history. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1991. His style, combining technical proficiency with mental sharpness, made him a difficult opponent in any era. Ortiz is regarded as a national hero in Puerto Rico, helping to pave the way for future Puerto Rican boxing legends such as Wilfredo Gómez, Félix Trinidad, and Miguel Cotto. Key Accomplishments Two-time World Lightweight Champion (1962-1965, 1965-1968) Junior Welterweight Champion (1959-1960) Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1991 Considered one of the greatest Puerto Rican fighters and one of the best lightweights in history. Ortiz’s career is remembered not only for his titles but also for his ability to rise after setbacks, his adaptability in rematches, and his enduring influence on the sport of boxing. Carlos Ortiz on BOX REC Interview at Canastota NY in 2009 courtesy Throwback Media

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Joe Louis, an American Icon

FIGHTERS OF THE 20th CENTURY / James

Joe Louis, professional name of Joseph Louis Barrow, American boxer known as “The Brown Bomber.” Born in Lafayette, Alabama. Champion from 1937-1949, regarded as one of the elite heavyweight champions of the 20th Century. Louis holds the record for 25 title defenses. He won the world heavyweight title in 1937 from James J Braddock by an eighth round knockout. He retired briefly in 1949 and failed to regain the title from new champion Ezzard Charles in 1950. Prior to the Charles loss, the only other fighter to defeat Louis was Max Schmeling in 1936. In addition to his boxing prowess, Joe Louis broke racial barriers and became a cultural icon. At a time when segregation and racial inequality were rampant in America, Louis’s success in the ring and his dignity outside of it earned him respect from people of all backgrounds. He became a hero to African Americans and was seen as a unifying figure during a divisive era.After retiring from boxing, Louis faced financial difficulties, including tax problems with the IRS, and his health declined. He passed away on April 12, 1981. Despite these challenges, his legacy as one of boxing’s all-time greats remains intact, and he is celebrated as a pioneer who transcended the sport to become a symbol of hope and resilience. Joe Louis paved the way for future African American athletes, showing that it was possible for a Black man to achieve success and be celebrated in mainstream American society. Louis’s legacy is also tied to his role in the integration of sports. While Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in baseball in 1947, Louis’s success in boxing set a precedent that contributed to the eventual acceptance of Black athletes in other sports. Joe Louis passed away in 1981, but his legacy has lived on through numerous honors, including: Statues: There is a large statue of Joe Louis in Detroit, Michigan, his hometown, symbolizing his enduring connection to the city. Civic Honors: After his death, he was given a burial in Arlington National Cemetery, a rare honor for a civilian, acknowledging his contribution to the nation both in and out of the ring. Louis’s legacy is one of athletic greatness, cultural impact, and a role in advancing civil rights. He was a unifying figure during a divisive time in American history, and his influence is still felt today in sports, race relations, and American patriotism. Joe Louis, also known as the “Brown Bomber,” was an American professional boxer and one of the most famous heavyweight champions in the history of the sport. He held the world heavyweight title from 1937 to 1949, making him the longest-reigning heavyweight champion in boxing history. His reign lasted 12 years, and he defended his title 25 times, setting a record that still stands today. Louis was known for his powerful punching ability, disciplined technique, and calm demeanor in the ring. He fought in an era when boxing was one of the most popular sports in the U.S., and his success made him a national hero. Beyond his boxing accomplishments, Joe Louis was a symbol of hope and pride for African Americans during a time of racial segregation and discrimination in the United States. His 1938 rematch victory over German boxer Max Schmeling, after losing to Schmeling in 1936, was seen as a symbolic victory over the Nazi regime and a significant moment in both sports and political history. BULLETIN BOARD

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Jack Dempsey

FIGHTERS OF THE 20th CENTURY / James

Discover the Unforgettable Legacy of Jack Dempsey Jack Dempsey, born William Harrison Dempsey on June 24, 1895, was one of the most famous American boxers of the early 20th century. He became a cultural icon during the 1920s, an era often referred to as the “Golden Age of Sports.” Dempsey’s aggressive, ferocious style, combined with his charisma, helped make him a global star. Here’s an overview of his career: Early Life and Career Beginnings Dempsey was born into poverty in Manassa, Colorado, and often fought to make ends meet. By the age of 16, he had started his boxing career, adopting the name Jack Dempsey, inspired by a 19th-century boxer known as “Nonpareil” Jack Dempsey. Early in his career, he fought in small venues and saloons across the western U.S., earning a reputation as a tough, hard-hitting fighter. Dempsey was known for knocking out opponents quickly with his powerful punches. Rise to Fame Dempsey’s breakthrough came in 1919, when he fought Jess Willard for the World Heavyweight Championship in Toledo, Ohio. Willard, a much larger man, was the reigning heavyweight champion, but Dempsey demolished him in a brutal fight. Dempsey knocked Willard down seven times in the first round alone. After three rounds of punishment, Willard failed to answer the bell for the fourth round, making Dempsey the new World Heavyweight Champion. Heavyweight Championship Reign (1919–1926) Dempsey held the heavyweight title for seven years, dominating his division with an aggressive, brawling style. He was known for his exceptional punching power, particularly his devastating left hook. Some of his most notable fights during this period include: 1921: Dempsey vs. Georges Carpentier – This was boxing’s first “million-dollar gate” fight. Dempsey knocked out Carpentier in the fourth round in front of a huge audience, cementing his status as a superstar. 1923: Dempsey vs. Luis Firpo – Known as “The Wild Bull of the Pampas,” Firpo was a formidable opponent. In one of the most famous moments in boxing history, Firpo knocked Dempsey out of the ring in the first round. However, Dempsey climbed back in and knocked out Firpo in the second round. The Long Count Fight (1927) Dempsey’s most famous bout came in 1927 against Gene Tunney, a former U.S. Marine and technically skilled boxer. Dempsey had lost the title to Tunney in 1926 in a major upset, and their rematch in Chicago, often called the “Long Count Fight,” became legendary. In the seventh round, Dempsey knocked Tunney down, but instead of going to a neutral corner, he lingered near Tunney, delaying the referee’s count. This gave Tunney extra time to recover, and he eventually went on to win the fight by decision. Dempsey never regained the title after this loss. Later Life After retiring from boxing, Dempsey remained a popular public figure. He served in World War II and opened a successful restaurant in New York City. Known for his sportsmanship and generosity, Dempsey stayed active in the boxing community and was often seen at major fights. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. Dempsey died on May 31, 1983, but his legacy endures. His fighting style, toughness, and ability to draw massive crowds made him one of the most famous athletes of his era. His influence extended beyond the ring, as he helped transform boxing into a major international sport and set the stage for future heavyweight champions.

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