Benny Leonard

Benny Leonard, a boxing legend of his time, had a long and triumphant career spanning over two decades. During his career, he fought in a total of 219 fights, winning 185, losing 22, drawing nine, and having zero no-contests. Out of his wins, 70 came through knockouts, and he won four title defenses in his career.

Leonard made his professional debut against Mickey Finnegan at the age of 15 on October 14, 1911. However, he lost the fight to Finnegan via 3rd round TKO. Despite the loss, he continued to fight relentlessly and, at the age of 24, finally became the lightweight world NYSAC champion after a rigorous career of 178 professional fights. He had his first title defense against Joe Welling on November 26, 1920, which he won via 14th round TKO.

Leonard's notable victories include wins over seven Hall-of-Famers, comprising Lew Tendler, Rocky Kansas, Johnny Dundee, Willie Ritchie, Jack Britton, Johnny Kilbane, and Freddie Welsh. Apart from them, he also defeated Richie Mitchell, Eddie Moy, Mel Coogan, James Red Herring, and Charley White.

Over the course of his professional boxing career, Leonard had a total of 22 losses, including one in a title bout and 21 in non-title bouts. His first loss came in his professional debut against Mickey Finnegan via 3rd round TKO. Out of the 22 losses, he was stopped five times and lost 17 times via decision.

Leonard's last professional fight took place at the age of 36 against the Irish boxer Jimmy McLarnin on October 7, 1932, which he lost via 6th round TKO. However, despite the defeat, he retired from professional boxing with a remarkable record of 185-22-9, including 70 knockout wins and five losses via knockout. His outstanding achievements in the sport led to his induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame (IBHOF) in 1990.

Leonard's career was illustrious, with two of the most significant highlights being his world-title fight and successful title-defense bout. On November 26, 1920, he became the NYSAC lightweight champion and had his first world-title fight, which he won against Joe Welling via 14th round TKO. Again, on January 14, 1921, Leonard successfully defended the NBA and NYSAC lightweight titles against Richie Mitchell, winning the fight via 6th round TKO.

In conclusion, Benny Leonard's career stands as a testimony to his dedication, hard work, and passion for the sport. Although he had his share of losses, his remarkable achievements made him a legend of the sport and continue to inspire young boxers to pursue their dreams relentlessly.

Benny Leonard Fight Record