Gus Lesnevich
Gus Lesnevich | |
---|---|
Statistics | |
Rated at | Light heavyweight |
Height | 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) |
Reach | Gustav George Lesnevich |
Nationality |
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Born |
Cliffside Park, New Jersey | February 22, 1915
Died | February 28, 1964 49) | (aged
Stance | Orthodox |
Boxing record | |
Total fights | 79 |
Wins | 60 |
Wins by KO | 23 |
Losses | 14 |
Draws | 5 |
Gustav George "Gus" Lesnevich (February 22, 1915 – February 28, 1964) was an American boxer who held the World Light Heavyweight Championship.
Boxing career
Lesnevich was born and raised in Cliffside Park, New Jersey.[1]
Lesnevich turned pro in 1934 and in 1939 took on World Light Heavyweight champion Billy Conn, but lost a decision. In 1941 he took on Anton Christoforidis, winning the NBA light heavyweight title by decision. Later that year he defended the title twice against Tami Mauriello, winning both decisions to become the undisputed light heavyweight champion.[2] In 1948 he lost a decision to Freddie Mills along with his title recognition. In 1949 he took on Ezzard Charles, but was TKO'd in the 7th, and retired after the bout.
In addition to his various accolades, Lesnevich was named Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year in 1947.
Lesnevich served in the United States Coast Guard from 1943 to 1945.
See also
References
- ↑ via Associated Press. "Billy Conn Punches Out Decision Over Lesnevich: Pittsburgh Fighter Successfully Defends Light-heavyweight Title Through Superior Boxing Ability Before Small Crowd at Detroit", Hartford Courant, June 6, 1940. Accessed March 22, 2011. "Billy Conn, the smiling, dancing Irishman from Pittsburgh, successfully defended his world's light heavyweight boxing championship tonight by beating out a close 15-round decision over Gus Lesnevich, plodding challenger from Cliffside Park..."
- ↑ "Gus Lesnevich - The Cyber Boxing Zone Encyclopedia". Cyber Boxing Zone.
External links
Achievements | ||
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Preceded by Anton Christoforidis |
NBA Light Heavyweight Champion May 22, 1941– July 26, 1948 |
Succeeded by Freddie Mills |
Preceded by Billy Conn Vacated |
NYSAC Light Heavyweight Champion August 26, 1941 – July 26, 1948 | |
World Light Heavyweight Champion August 26, 1941 – July 26, 1948 |