Boxing in New Jersey, 1900–1999
$29.95
In stock
About the Book
For all hard-core boxing fans, this book introduces the reader to New Jersey stars of the 20th century—gladiators who fought in blood-soaked rings bringing entertainment to millions for little pay. They must not be forgotten. The book contains many little known facts about these fine men, all trying to punch out a living for their families in hard times. The author has followed the sport for 75 years and worked in all phases of it. Readers will learn of the hard work, dedication and respect developed by these fighters in the “sweet science.”
About the Author(s)
Bibliographic Details
Robert F. Fernandez, Sr.
Format: softcover (6 x 9)
Pages: 204
Bibliographic Info: index
Copyright Date: 2014
pISBN: 978-0-7864-9476-7
eISBN: 978-1-4766-1607-0
Imprint: McFarland
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Foreword (Peter R. Nozza and Thomas A. Kaczmarek) 1
Preface 3
James J. Braddock: Cinderella Man 5
Boxing Spawns Gentlemen: An Ode to Vic Creelman 10
The Jersey Nightstick: Tony Galento and Other Jersey Bombers 14
Ike Williams: Lightweight Champion Extraordinaire 25
The Garfield Gunner 31
School of Local Ring Greats: New Jersey’s Laurel Garden and Meadowbrook Bowl 42
Jersey Joe Walcott in Two Parts 65
The Irvington Milkman: Charley Fusari, New Jersey’s Golden Boy 79
Joe Louis’s “Exhibitions”: Joe Cheshul and Henry “Snow” Flakes 96
The Russian Lion and the Philly Fox 108
The Staircase to Boxing’s Fond Memories 120
Joe Frazier: Deceiving First Appearances 126
Tony Riccio: The Tungsten Steel Man 129
Al Guido: The Measuring Man 132
Chuck Wepner: The Red Badge of Courage 135
Freddie “Red” Cochrane 145
Rocky Graziano: The Dead End Kid 154
Promoter George “Korn” Kobb 160
Please Don’t Pass the Sugar: Sugar Ray Robinson 162
Frankie DePaula 175
More Thumbnail Sketches 179
Boxing Trivia 185
Boxing Trivia Answers 189
Index 191
Book Reviews & Awards
“an enjoyable and informative reminder of these boxing legends…offers a hugely entertaining slice of American sporting lore that will engage boxing fans, history lovers, and others through and through. Recommended”—ARBA.
