Bob Montgomery (boxer)

Bob Montgomery ( born February 10, 1919 in Sumter, South Carolina; † August 25, 1998 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ) was an American boxer.

Professional career

Bob Montgomery, also called Philadelphia Bobcat, was a professional boxer in 1938 and contributed his fights mainly in the cities of Philadelphia and Atlantic City from.

He became known for his thrilling fights against his rival Beau Jack. In their first meeting on May 21, 1943 Montgomery won by a points victory after 15 laps, the New York State World Lightweight Title. In a rematch six months later, but he lost this back to Jack.

After the victory over Ike Williams and the defeat against Al " Bummy " Davis, Montgomery was again able to win the New York State World Lightweight Title, as he was able to defeat on points again in 1944, Jack.

The most famous encounter between Jack and Montgomery took place at Madison Square Garden on August 4, 1944 in front of 15,822 spectators. In this battle it does not handeltet is a title fight. The spectators present were encouraged to buy war bonds, so that record revenues! Amounting to U.S. $ 35,864,000 were made. Shortly after the battle, both were drafted into the U.S. Army.

In 1946, Montgomery defended his title successfully against Allie pride and Wesley Mouzon. The subsequent fight against NBA champions Williams, in 1947, Montgomery lost by TKO. From this defeat Montgomery should not recover.

In his 97 professional fights Montgomery defeated some high-class boxers of that time, including but not Lew Jenkins, Davey Day, Lulu Costantino, Fritzie Zivic, Joey Peralta, Leo Rodak and Tony Pellone.

In 1995, Montgomery induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.