At this time is a big day for hardcore struggle followers as we mark the anniversary of the delivery of certainly one of boxing’s singular skills, the best featherweight of all-time, and a real ring unique, Willie Pep. And whereas Pep handed on to the large squared circle within the sky again in 2006, he won’t ever be forgotten and we’re joyful to make the most of any excuse to pay tribute to his extraordinary expertise and ring report. When Guglielmo Papaleo lastly retired in 1960, he had amassed a tremendous 229 victories in opposition to solely eleven defeats and one draw. It stays one of the vital spectacular data in all of pugilism, testifying to Pep’s astonishing expertise.
And whereas being extremely prolific, Pep in actual fact suffered defeat solely as soon as throughout his prime, that being by determination to the naturally greater Sammy Angott in a non-title match in 1943. He had gained the world featherweight title in 1942 and would maintain it for six years earlier than shedding to fellow all-time nice Sandy Saddler. When he answered the bell for that match, his report stood at a tremendous 134 wins in opposition to one draw and a single defeat. And in one of many best performances in boxing historical past, he regained the title from Saddler by determination the next yr, earlier than shedding twice extra to his legendary rival. He went on to compete for one more decade and when he lastly retired, he was universally hailed as one of the vital proficient and inventive artists the ring had ever seen.
Little doubt Pep’s success and astonishing longevity had a lot to do along with his ring intelligence, his talent at controlling the motion and avoiding punishment. Right here, analyst Lee Wylie, in one other of his excellent movies, particulars how Pep’s mastery of timing, motion, footwork and in-fighting, allowed him to neutralize his opponents’ efforts, rendering them offensively ineffectual. It was such approach and ring sophistication which earned Pep the nickname, “The Will o’the Wisp,” and made him a real boxing legend. Test it out:
