Carmen Basilio

Carmen Basilio is a name that leaves a significant mark in the boxing history books. Born as Carmine Basilio on April 2, 1927, in Canastota, New York, Basilio was an American professional boxer who rose to fame and became a world champion in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. Nicknamed "The Upstate Onion Farmer" due to his farming background, Basilio had a professional career that spanned over 12 years. He retired with a record of 56-16-7, including a total of 27 knockout wins and 2 losses via knockout, and was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990. In this article, we will dive deep into Basilio's career, highlight some of his notable victories, and discuss why he is still relevant in modern-day boxing conversations.

Early Life and Career Beginnings

Born and raised in Canastota, New York, Basilio developed his fighting skills as a young boy, working as a farmhand with his father. His family owned a 22-acre farm in the small town, which was Basilio's primary source of income for most of his life. His passion for boxing started at a young age, and he was an accomplished amateur boxer before turning pro.

At the age of 21, Basilio made his professional boxing debut against Jimmy Evans on November 24, 1948. The fight ended in a third-round knockout victory for Basilio, setting the tone for his illustrious career. He won three consecutive fights after his debut, including two via stoppage before experiencing his first career loss against Connie Thies via six rounds PTS on May 2, 1949.

Career Highlights

Basilio's iconic career is highlighted by his nine total world title wins in two different weight classes. The New York native made a name for himself with his relentless pressure style and his indomitable will to win. He faced some of the best fighters of his time and managed to hold his own throughout his career, which earned him several accolades, including being named the Fighter of the Year in 1955, 1956 and 1957 by the Boxing Writers Association of America.

Basilio's first world title fight came on September 18, 1953, after 50 professional fights against Kid Gavilan for the NBA, NYSAC, and The Ring titles. The fight ended in a 15 round split-decision loss, but it showed Basilio's perseverance and heart to take on such a formidable opponent. He didn't take long to become a world champion, defeating Tony DeMarco via 12th round TKO to win the NBA, NYSAC, and The Ring welterweight titles in June 1955. Basilio successfully defended his titles against DeMarco in November of the same year, winning via 12th round TKO.

Another notable victory came in 1956, when Basilio faced former world champion Johnny Saxton for the NBA, NYSAC, and The Ring welterweight titles. Basilio won the fight via 9th round TKO, establishing himself as one of the top welterweights in boxing history. Basilio successfully defended his titles against Saxton in a rematch, winning via 2nd round TKO.

In 1957, Basilio moved up to the middleweight division to fight Sugar Ray Robinson for the NBA, NYSAC, and The Ring middleweight titles. The fight went the distance, with Basilio winning via a 15 round split-decision, adding another world title to his resume. This victory solidified Basilio's legacy in boxing history, and he became a living legend in the sport.

Notable Fights and Defeats

Throughout his illustrious career, Basilio faced some of the best fighters in boxing history, including Sugar Ray Robinson, Tony DeMarco, Billy Graham, Ike Williams, and Lew Jenkins. He also holds the distinction of being in The Ring magazine's Fight of the Year in five consecutive years (1955-59), an accomplishment that has yet to be matched by any other boxer.

Basilio suffered his first loss on May 2, 1949, against Connie Thies via six rounds PTS, but he bounced back with consecutive wins after that fight. Basilio had a total of 16 losses in his professional boxing career, including six in title bouts and ten in non-title bouts. He was stopped two times and lost 14 times via decision. His last professional fight was on April 22, 1961, against Paul Pender for Pender's middleweight NYSAC and The Ring titles. Basilio lost the fight via 15 round unanimous decision, which marked the end of a remarkable career.

Lingering Impact and Legacy

Carmen Basilio's impact on boxing history cannot be overstated. He was a champion who earned respect and admiration from his fellow fighters and boxing fans all over the world. Basilio was known for his toughness, resilience, and his never-say-die attitude, which inspired several generations of boxers to come.

Even after his passing on November 7, 2012, Basilio's legacy still looms large in boxing conversations. In 2002, Basilio was voted by The Ring magazine as the 40th greatest fighter of the last 80 years. He remains a key figure in boxing's history, and he continues to inspire athletes to push themselves to the limits to achieve greatness in the sport.

Conclusion

Carmen Basilio's life and career will always be an inspiration in the boxing world. He came from humble beginnings, and he persevered against all odds to become a world champion in two different weight classes. Basilio's grit and determination in the ring earned him respect from his opponents and won him the hearts of boxing fans around the world. His legacy lives on in the boxing community, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest fighters to ever step inside the squared circle.

Carmen Basilio Fight Record