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[JCWeb]

Jan 1920 WW Division Profile

Total: 102 RL: 57 TCs: 45

RL By Career Stage:
End - 3
Post - 12
Prime - 20
Pre - 8
Beginning - 14 (10 New)

Rated: 38
800+: 9
500+: 23
200+: 34

Jan 1920 Rankings (Perf Pts and Changes from Jan 1919 in parens):

Champ: Art Magirl 30-2-1 (26) (1489) (NC)
1. Packey McFarland 45-4-3 (22) (1334) (NC)
2. Jack Britton 46-10-3 (16) (1059) (+4)
3. Ted Kid Lewis 28-10-4 (13) (972) (+4)
4. Albert Badoud 27-9-2 (15) (971) (-2)
5. Eddie Shevlin 29-12-3 (12) (932) (-2)
6. Johnny Basham 28-10-3 (11) (925) (-1)
7. Bermondsey Billy Wells 20-2 (10) (845) (+7)
8. Dixie Kid 54-21-2 (22) (806) (NC)
9. Fred Kay 22-7-1 (15) (670) (+11)
10. Tommy Robson 23-7 (15) (649) (+15)

Comments: All the above at Prime, except for Kid and Kay who will be at Post in 1920. Magirl kept rolling with three more winning title defenses in 1919, running his unbeaten streak to 20 bouts in a row. McFarland was also 3-0 for the year, adding a UD 10 win over Basham to his two successful NABF defenses. Britton moved up with four wins in five bouts, two title defenses and wins over Holberg and Bermondsey Wells and only losing in the title clash with Magirl. Ted Kid Lewis impressed with KO wins over Fryer and Badoud (the latter for the EBU title) to recover from 3 earlier DQ losses in a row. Badoud was 2-2 for the year, regaining but losing the EBU title, slipping a bit in the rankings as a result. Shevlin won narrow decisions over Summers (MD) and Graves (SD) but faltered in his tries for the NABF and USBA titles. Basham kept the CBU belt and scored a UD over Glover, but dropped a UD 10 to McFarland and failed in his WBA title try. Bermondsey Billy ran his unbeaten streak to 17 before losing to Basham and Britton, but bounced back with three wins over Holberg (KO 3), Gardner (UD) plus M Wells for the GBU belt. A resurgent Dixie Kid put together a four-bout win streak (including a TKO over Willie Loughlin) before losing to Britton, but aging effects have now kicked in. Same is true for Aussie Fred Kay, who went 3-0 in 1919 (UD over Clabby, MD over M Wells and a KO of Frankie Barrieau) but since 1920 was his last year IRL, he will move to Post next year. Finally, Tommy Robson won four bouts (his only loss a DQ to Holberg) including KOs over Whitney, Graves and Alberts to move into the top 10.

Other Notables: Alberts, Summers and Dane Dick Nelson dropped from the Top 10 in 1919. Alberts slid five spots to #14, only winning one of four (a UD over Clabby) but stumbling by suffering a KO loss to Robson. Summers lost all four bouts in 1919, tumbling 16 spots to #20. Dick Nelson dropped from #10 to #22, and he is now mired in a 6-bout losing streak, not having a ring victory for nearly two years (since January 1918). On the positive side, Aussie Tommy Uren won four of five 1919 contests, moving to #11 overall with a KO over Soldier Bartfield and UDs versus Marty Cross and Summers. Jimmy Fryer checks in at #13, taking six of his last seven, including a shocking KO 1 over Willie Loughlin. Top newcomer to the list is unbeaten Ray Long, who has compiled a 16-0-1 (6) record, including UDs over Bartfield and Trambitas and a draw with Glover on top of numerous record-padding TC wins. Loughlin tumbled to #18, but snapped a 5-bout losing streak with a TKO over Clabby to lift his career mark to 19-6 (16). Denmark's Frithjof Hansen overcame three early losses to go 5-0 in 1919, debuting at #29 with a 12-3 (4) record.

Prospects: For the most part, everyone has been feasting on TC opposition. George Levine stretched his record to 13-0 (5). Joe Simonich, at 10-0 (5) includes a TKO win over RL WW, Jack Sparr, on his resume. Sparr's loss dropped his record to 8-1 (6). Filipino Macario Flores kept a clean slate at 9-0 (3), as did American Georgie Ward at 7-0 (6). Off to good starts in 1919 were Paul Demsky, 2-0 (2), Pete Latzo, 2-0 (1), Joe Dundee, 2-0 (0) and Young Corbett III, 1-0 (1), who may ultimately prove to be the best of the lot.

Retirement: Tom McCormick, RL Irish champ, who had a short career and therefore did not distinguish himself in my Uni. His career stats:

Tom McCormick (IRL) 1912-19 21-11-1 (13) No Titles Highest Rank: 24

Looking Ahead: Magirl, McFarland, Britton and now Lewis appear to be the class of the WW field right now, and a title clash involving any of them would be of great interest. Bermondsey Billy Wells and Tommy Robson will be looking to build on prior successes, but may find it much more difficult against top-flight WWs. Veteran WWs such as Whitney, Holberg, Clabby and Glover appear to be fading fast as the new decade starts. A total of 10 new WWs are set to debut in 1920, including Americans Jimmy Jones and Morrie Schlaifer along with Brits Hamilton Johnny Brown and Alf Mancini.

Predictions: Another oh-fer for last year's predictions: Magirl dropping the WBA title? Wrong. Shevlin over McFarland for the NABF belt? No way. Finally, predicted four changes to the top ten -- there were only three.
Not sure I want to even try to make any forecasts for 1920. But, here goes, I will predict McFarland breaking through to take the WBA crown from Magirl. Expect to see Ted Kid Lewis adding either the CBU or GBU crown to his EBU one. Robson will challenge for a lesser title (NABF or USBA) but fail in the attempt. So, one bold prediction and two wimpy ones -- should at least get one of them right.

[JCWeb]

1919 LW Title Bouts

WBA

Benny Leonard CH (34-0-1) vs Llew Edwards #6 (19-5-1)

First meeting of the two. It's Leonard's 11th title defense. Edwards is coming off a strong 1918 which saw him defend the EBU title belt.

Leonard gets off to a strong start, boxing beautifully. Edwards tries to be more aggressive in round two, but Leonard takes the round. After rounds 3-5, it becomes clear that Edwards is totally outclassed by the slick boxing Leonard. The challenger tries to move inside in round six, but he runs into a strong shot by Leonard that slices open a cut over his right eye. Leonard pounds away, and by round 7 the left eye of the challenger is starting to swell up. It's just a question of time, and the end comes in round 9 when the gash over Edwards' eye is reopened and becomes too serious to allow the bout to continue. Leonard by TKO 9 (cut).

Benny Leonard CH (35-0-1) vs Lew Tendler #2 (24-2-1)

First meeting of the two. Tendler has won his last four bouts to make a quick move up the ratings.

A quiet round one is broken up when a straight right by Leonard staggers Tendler, who covers up to last the round. Not much action as the two trade long-range blows in round two. The challenger moves inside in round three, and the Ghetto Wizard counters with a strong uppercut from way outside, but Tendler connects with a right cross to keep the round close. Tendler presses the action in round four, but Leonard sneaks home a sharp counter that opens a cut above the right eye of Tendler. Leonard continues to target the cut while Tendler tries to become more assertive. The cut is initially brought under control, but when Leonard's blows rip it open again in round seven, things are too much out of control and the ref halts the bout. Another TKO on cuts, this time in 7, for Leonard.

Benny Leonard CH (36-0-1) vs Jack Blackburn #1 (66-10-2)

It's Leonard's 13th title defense, his second versus the talented but aging Blackburn who put up a good effort in a UD 15 loss in January 1918.

After a cautious initial round, Blackburn moves inside to try to force the action in round two. Leonard responds by working inside, taking round three. Both men elect to stay outside in round four, another close round. Blackburn tries to get more aggressive, but runs into some strong defense by Leonard in round five. As the bout wears on, the Ghetto Wizard gradually wears down his veteran opponent. Blackburn can't find a chink in Leonard's armor, and Benny goes on to register a solid UD 15 win.

Benny Leonard CH (37-0-1) vs Benny Valgar #13 (18-0-1)

Despite his relative youth (21), the previously unbeaten "French Flash," Valgar, gets a shot at Leonard's WBA belt. Two unbeaten fighters battling for a WBA crown is a unique event, but Leonard is a heavy favorite.

Leonard makes another strong start, and he has Valgar off balance for most of the opening stanza. Round two, both men stay on the outside, and Leonard piles up the points. Third round, Valgar gambles and tries his luck on the inside, but Leonard responds by ripping open a cut above the Frenchman's right eye, and the left eye starts to swell up as well. Leonard has Valgar on the defensive, scoring heavily once again in round four. The cut is patched up but is re-opened again by Leonard, and it turns out to be a major problem the rest of the way. The result: another cuts stoppage, it goes down as a TKO 8 for Leonard.

Benny Leonard CH (38-0-1) vs Jimmy Dundee #14 (20-3)

Finally, Leonard looks outside the top 10 for his fifth challenger in 1919, Jimmy Dundee, who got his career back on track in 1919 with three straight wins after three losses spoiled a perfect 17-0 start. First meeting of the two.

Leonard is once again sharp early, taking round one and piling up points by fighting outside in rounds 2-3. Leonard continues to dominate the action in rounds 4-5, and swelling is noticeable around the left eye of the challenger. The Ghetto Wizard continues to show superior boxing skills against his overmatched opponent, punctuating his effort with a KD in the final round. Leonard by a lopsided UD 15 to keep the crown.

NABF: Blackburn took on two challengers in 1919. First up was Willie Ritchie, a former Champ, who was put on the canvas by a Blackburn combination in round 7 en route to a UD 12 in a typical workmanlike performance by the veteran. Then Blackburn took on Canadian Clonie Tait, picking up the pace after a slow start, punishing Tait in a bout that resulted in a late stoppage. Blackburn by TKO 9.

USBA: Rocky Kansas defended the USBA title first versus the veteran Ad Wolgast, who was projected to provide a stiff challenge, but instead it was Kansas who dominated most of the action en route to a UD 12 win. Then Lockport Jimmy Duffy challenged Kansas, and again Kansas was up to the task, sending Duffy to the canvas near the end of round 4 and finishing matters in round 6 when he opened a cut above Duffy's right eye that led to a quick stoppage. Kansas by TKO 6 (cut).

CBU: Aussie Herb McCoy defended the belt he won in 1918 by taking on Brit Phil Bloom, "the Ring Gorilla," who made a nice comeback after being dominated early in the fight. McCoy hung on to escape with a narrow UD 12 win. A former British great, "Welsh Wizard" Freddie Welsh, challenged McCoy for the belt but he proved too old and slow as McCoy piled up points for another UD 12 win.

GBU: "Peerless Jim" Driscoll defended this title versus Bloom, who kept the bout close and even managed to put Driscoll on the deck in round 10. Driscoll battled on and kept the title with a majority draw.

EBU: Brit Llew Edwards defended versus the 18-0 challenger, hot young prospect Benny Valgar, aka "The French Flash." A solid hook in round 3 put Valgar on his back, and Edwards followed up with a second KD in round 9. Nonetheless, Valgar battled well and the end result was a justified majority draw, which left Edwards still in possession of the EBU title belt.

[JCWeb]

Jan 1920 LW Division Profile

Total: 122 RL: 68 TCs: 54

RL by Career Stage:
End - 8
Post - 9
Prime - 32
Pre - 9
Beginning - 10 (7 New)

Rated: 52
800+: 13
500+: 28
200+: 48

Jan 1920 Rankings (Perf Pts and Changes from Jan 1919 in parens)

Champ: Benny Leonard 39-0-1 (24) (1780) (NC)
1. Llew Edwards 20-6-2 (12) (1186) (+4)
2. Jack Blackburn 66-12-2 (23) (1185) (-1)
3. Rocky Kansas 27-16-2 (17) (1115) (+1)
4. Willie Ritchie 36-14-2 (12) (1098) (-1)
5. Herb McCoy 30-12-1 (13) (1062) (+2)
6. Lew Tendler 24-4-1 (9) (1040) (-4)
7. Ray Bronson 35-14-6 (9) (928) (-2)
8. Ever Hammer 25-5-3 (10) (915) (+8)
9. Jem Driscoll 61-13-2 (31) (886) (-1)
10. Lockport Jimmy Duffy 31-14-3 (15) (869) (+2)

Comments: An aging division, as illustrated by the fact that four of the fighters listed above (Blakburn, Bronson, Driscoll and Duffy) will be at Post in 1920, rest still at Prime. Leonard defended the title five times in 1919 and pushed his consecutive win streak to 25; his PP total of 1780 is an all-time high. Edwards moved up to the #1 contender spot by virtue of his UD 10 win over Blackburn. Blackburn remains highly rated, and he turned in a UD 10 victory over the CBU Champ, Herb McCoy. Kansas was 2-0 in two USBA title defenses to push his win streak to four in a row. Ritchie fought twice, losing to Blackburn but downing Tendler (UD 10). McCoy dropped the UD to Blackburn but had three wins in a row, including a UD 10 over Charley White in addition to two CBU title defenses. Tendler compiled a four bout win streak, then dropped his last two bouts to Edwards and Ritchie. Bronson split two bouts in 1919, winning a UD 10 over Jimmy Dundee but suffering a TKO loss to Duffy. Ever Hammer made a huge move up the ratings, going four for four in 1919 contests, including a KO over Hyland, a MD versus de Ponthieu and UDs versus Richie Mitchell and Andy Chaney. Veteran British champ Driscoll managed to keep his GBU title, scoring a SD over Ad Wolgast but dropping a UD to Andy Chaney. Rounding out the top 10 is Duffy, who moved to the top 10 by virtue of wins over Hyland (UD), Bronson (KO) despite being held to a draw by Willie Jackson.

Other Notables: Dropping out of the top 10 were Fighting Dick Hyland, who fell six spots to #15, and Frenchman Louis de Ponthieu, who dropped six spots to #16. Hyland was winless in 1919, dropping UDs to Tendler and Duffy and suffering a KO 1 at the hands of Hammer. de Ponthieu fought five times, losing three and winning only once (a UD 10 over Robideau in his most recent bout) while being held to a draw by Richie Mitchell. Andy Chaney moved into the Top 10 with UD over Driscoll but then lost a UD to Hammer, snapping a four bout win streak. His career record of 21-2 (10) is good for #11 in the year-end ratings. French Flash Benny Valgar wound up in the #13 spot at 18-1-1 (11), including a MD win over de Ponthieu. Jimmy Dundee, who went 3-3 in a very busy 1919, finished one spot behind Valgar, sporting a 20-4 (9) mark. Ad Wolgast, who continued to struggle, snapped a four-bout losing streak with a UD over Johnny Arrousey to wind up the year at #19. Sam Robideau had won six in succession to reach the top 20, but suffered a UD loss to de Ponthieu; he finishes 1919 at #20 with a 25-13-1 (9) record. Veteran British fighter Freddie Welsh rallied for two wins, but wound up at #26 after falling short in his CBU title clash with McCoy. Former Top 10 LW Willie Beecher is mired in a five bout losing streak after going 0-3 in 1919, finishing at #27. Danish boxer Emanuel Jacobsen debuts at #30 in the rankings with a 14-2 (7) record, turning in a TKO over veteran Matty Baldwin. Veteran Mexican Joe Rivers could do no better than #31 after a 3-1 year. Another newcomer, Tommy O'Brien, checks in at #32 after a 15-2-1 (9) career start.

Prospects: Alex Hart prepares to step up after a 13-0 (5) start, all versus TCs. Tommy Cello suffered his first defense, a TKO defeat at the hands of O'Brien, and wound up the year at 13-1 (7). The UK's Ernie Rice has remained unbeaten since losing his initial bout to register a 11-1 (9) start. Jimmy Goodrich lost one on a cuts stoppage en route ato a 7-1 (4) start. Sid Barbarian at 5-0 (3), Charley O'Connell at 4-0 (4), and Johnny Trambitas at 2-0 kept their slates clean, while Joe Ryder at 2-0-1 recovered from an opening draw.

Retirements: Two long-time LWs hung up the gloves in 1919.

Matty Baldwin (USA) 1902-19 38-28-2 (22) NABF Champ Highest Rank: 3
Knockout Brown (USA) 1907-19 30-17-2 (22) USBA Champ Highest Rank: 7

Looking Ahead: Still no one has emerged with the talent to seriously threaten Leonard who, barring a major upset, should be set as WBA Champ for a long time. Kansas may have the best prospects, given that Blackburn is starting to show the effects of aging. Tendler and Hammer appear to be set for long runs in the Top 10. Jimmy Goodrich may be the best of the current group of prospects. It will be interesting to see if the French flash, Valgar, can follow up on his early success and emerge as EBU champion. Sammy Mandell and Billy Wallace are set to pace seven newcomers to the LW ranks in 1920.

Predictions: Did somewhat better with the LWs than most of the other divisions; had Leonard keeping his WBA title, had him defeating Tendler, was incorrect in calling Kansas over Blackburn, and the Edwards-McCoy clash did not take place -- Ok, two of four and two easy ones ... maybe not so great.
For 1920, I will forecast Valgar as the new EBU Champ. I will once again forecast a new NABF champ, and predict that either Kansas or Tendler will step up and oust Blackburn. I also will predict Edwards over McCoy for the CBU title.

[JCWeb]

With three more divisions to report on, thought I would take a break and post a quick note on the burgeoning new JWW and JLW divisions. I have gone back and forth on this and while no title bouts are on offer, three JWWs were active in 1919 and I expect to add three JLWs in 1920. So, here's a quick report.

Jan 1920 JWW Division Profile

Total: 7 RL: 3 TCs: 4

RL by Career Stage:
Pre -2
Beginning -1 (0 New)

Comments: Pinkey Mitchell, who has been active for three years now, has logged in 15 bouts, most against WW TCs since I have only created four JWW TCs thus far. Pinkey started off by winning his first seven in a row, then dropped a bout via DQ to a TC, avenged the defeat and currently has re-established his credentials with another 7-bout win streak. Thus far, his career mark stands at 14-1 (9). He appears to be ready to take on some RL opposition in 1920.

Prospects: Basil Galiano, at 7-0 (2), and Spug Myers, at 3-0 (1) have kept their slates clean against the usual TC opponents. No newcomers will be added to the JWW ranks in 1920.

Jan 1920 JLW Division Profile

Total: 3 (all RL)

All three at Beginning (3 New) in 1920

Mike Ballerino, Jack Bernstein and Tod Morgan are the three debutants as this division gets its initial start in 1920. Expect to see several FWs who competed for JLW honors, such as Johnny (Scotch Wop) Dundee and Steve (Kid) Sullivan, to dabble in this new division once it gets rolling and starts offering titles in a few years.

[JCWeb]

1919 FW Title Bouts

WBA

Kid Julian CH (29-9-7) vs Johnny Kilbane #1 (39-8-4)

Ex Champ Kilbane comes into the bout having won his last 6, plus he holds a 2-0 edge in prior bouts with Julian.

Kilbane looks sharp early, on target in round one with his jab while Julian is wild with several winging shots. Kid Julian moves inside and starts to connect in round two, and it's a strong round for the champ. Round three sees both men work the inside, a close round. Round four sees a slight edge to Kilbane as both men stay outside. Julian is more aggressive in round five, and he pulls even (48-48) according to the unofficial scorer. Kilbane steps in the inside in round six, while Julian tries to press the attack, and Kilbane scores with a big right near the end of the round. Kilbane presses forward and manages to drop the Champ in round 7. From here on, Julian takes a real beating as Kilbane seizes control of the bout. Julian is unable to penetrate Kilbane's defenses in the later rounds when the challenger adopts a defensive posture. It's a lopsided UD 15 win for Kilbane (146-139, 147-138, 148-137) who regains the WBA belt once again.

Johnny Kilbane CH (40-8-4) vs Abe Attell #1 (68-6-2)

Sixth meeting of these long-time FW rivals and, although Attell holds a 5-0 lifetime edge, Kilbane now has the belt and Attell is at Post-Prime.

A cautious start in the opening rounds, but Kilbane seems to have the upper hand. Kilbane starts loading up on his punches on the inside in round three, while Attell stays on the outside. Abe tries his luck on the inside in round four, runs into a Kilbane hook, and is floored for a 5-count. Kilbane dominates round 5 and has a huge lead (50-44 on the unofficial card) after five. Attell steps up the pace and turns in a strong performance in round 6. After a close round 7, it seems to be Abe's last hurrah as he fades badly in later rounds against the younger, stronger Kilbane. It's a foregone conclusion, Kilbane's first win over the veteran Attell in six tries -- Kilbane by UD 15 (147-139, 146-140, 147-139).

NABF: Three NABF title bouts took place in 1919. KO Mars defended versus Ansel Bell of Panama, in a close bout where Bell stunned Mars with a big combination in round 8; Mars had to launch a late rally to escape with a SD 12 verdict. Mars then took on the veteran Bud Ridley, aka "Little Dempsey," who entered the bout with a perfect 17-0 mark and a USBA title to boot. Ridley started well, was aggressive throughout, and Mars could make little impression as Ridley went on to a UD 12 win. Finally, Ridley was matched up with the Panamanian, Bell, who piled up an early points lead that proved decisive in a close but UD 12 for Bell -- Ridley's first loss.

USBA: Eddie O'Keefe and Bud Ridley met for the belt vacated by Kilbane. Ridley dropped O'Keefe in round 4, overcame a late rally to score two late KDs for a UD 12 win. Ridley then went on to become NABF Champ, vacating the belt. Patsy Brannigan met O'Keefe for the vacant title. Brannigan showed greater endurance and dominated in the later rounds, dropping O'Keefe with a solid hook in round 11 en route to a UD 12 win.

CBU: Australia's Jimmy Hill defended the CBU belt twice in 1919, first versus Frankie Ellis, who put up little resistance as Hill pounded out a UD 12 win. Then veteran Owen Moran, near the tail-end of his long career, was given another title shot, and once again Hill was dominant although he did have to overcome a late, last-ditch effort by Moran. Another UD 12 for Hill.

GBU: The GBU title has been vacant since Billy Elliott retired in 1918.

EBU: Frenchman Eugene Criqui defended versus the ex-WBA Champ, Kid Julian, and it turned out to be target practice for Criqui who nailed Julian with a hook for a KD in round one and then finished him off in round two. Criqui by KO 2.

[JCWeb]

Jan 1920 FW Division Profile

Total: 84 RL: 48 TCs: 36

RL by Career Stage:
End - 4
Post - 3
Prime - 17
Pre - 5
Beginning - 19 (14 New)

Rated: 26
800+: 6
500+: 17
200+: 24

Jan 1920 Rankings (Perf Pts and Changes from Jan 1919 in Parens):

Champ: Johnny Kilbane 41-8-4 (10) (1219) (+1)
1. Eugene Criqui 31-6-5 (14) (979) (+1)
2. Patsy Brannigan 26-10-5 (8) (963) (+4)
3. Abe Attell 69-7-2 (24) (954) (NC)
4. Steve Sullivan 26-10-3 (7) (951) (+5)
5. Johnny Dundee 31-8-2 (11) (896) (-1)
6. Eddie O'Keefe 37-13-3 (8) (785) (+1)
7. K. O. Mars 24-11-1 (5) (784) (-2)
8. Ansel Bell 19-5-2 (13) (765) (+4)
9. Jimmy Hill 31-13-2 (1) (758) (-1)
10. Bud Ridley 18-1 (11) (720) (NC)

Comments: Everyone listed at Prime, except Attell at Post and Ridley who will be at Pre-Prime for one more bout. Kilbane has won his last eight, unbeaten since 1917 and swept aside Julian to regain the WBA title. Criqui moved up despite being held to a draw by Brannigan; he also suffered a UD loss to Sullivan but did beat CBU Champ Hill in addition to keeping the EBU belt. Brannigan did not lose in 1919, drawing with Criqui, beating Johnny Dundee (TKO) and Owen Moran (MD) in addition to capturing the USBA title. Veteran Abe Attell scored UD wins over Ames and Ellis and a TD with Walsh to remain a factor. Sullivan went 4-0 in 1919, running his unbeaten string to seven, besting Hill, Criqui and Ames in UDs and TKOing Ty Cobb. Dundee slipped a bit after losing to Brannigan, managed only a draw with Hill, and TKO'd Francisco Flores. O'Keefe won two and lost two in 1919, his best results being two UDs over Mars and Cobb. Mars won then lost the NABF title, slipping further with a UD loss to O'Keefe. New NABF Champ Bell surged to the top 10, having dropped a SD to Mars but coming on strong to win his last three. Hill had a busy year, fighting 6 bouts, winning three (two CBU defenses and a SD over "Pepper" Martin) but lost bout versus higher rated opponents like Criqui and Sullivan; a draw with Dundee was perhaps his best result. Ridley moved up after his USBA and NABF title triumphs (after scoring a MD over Walsh) to start out at 18-0, but slipped back to #10 after the loss to Bell.

Other Notables: Kid Julian, who held the WBA title belt a year ago, fell all the way out of the top 10 down to #12 after losing the EBU title contest as well as a SD loss to Leo Johnson; the only bright spot was a UD over aging veteran Jimmy Walsh. Top newcomer Mike Dundee kept his perfect record, improving to 16-0 (15) with KOs over Tommy Dixon and Joe Russell plus a UD over veteran Percy Cove to debut at #13 in the year-end list. Ty Cobb was 2-2 for the year, winding up at #14 after a MD over Lee Johnson but two losses to the higher rated Sullivan and O'Keefe. The MD loss to Cobb snapped a four-bout win streak for Lee Johnson, whose 1919 wins over Cove, Dixon and Grover Hayes left him at #15. Vincent "Pepper" Martin has struggled once he advanced beyond TC opposition, and right now he is no better than #24 with a 15-4-1 (12) record.

Prospects: Everyone in the prospect group kept their slates clean against TC opposition, including Chick Suggs, at 10-0 (6); Frenchman Andre Routis, 6-0 (4); Danny Kramer, 5-0 (2); Charlie Beecher, 4-0 (1); Elino Flores, 3-0 (0); Louis Kaplan, 2-0 (2); Benny Bass, 2-0 (0); Babe Herman, 2-0 (0).

Retirements: The end came for two FWs, including a former Champ.

Joe Russell (AUS) 1910-19 20-19-3 (6) No Titles Highest Rank: 19
Owen Moran (UK) 1901-19 43-28-3 (17) WBA Champ Highest Rank: 4

Moran also campaigned in his early years as a BW, where he reached as high as #2 and held the EBU BW title (twice) and the CBU title (once).

Looking Ahead: A bit of a gap has emerged between Kilbane and the rest of the talent, much as happened in the years when Attell ruled the roost. Look for Sullivan and Dundee to seek title shots in 1920. It will be interesting to see if Bell can advance further, and how much Ridley can achieve once he hits Prime career stage after a couple of more bouts. Same is true for the unbeaten but as yet untested Mike Dundee. Best of the younger crop appears to be Benny Bass. This relatively thin division will become much more crowded in 1920 as a plethora of new FWs (14 in all) will be added, including Carl Duane (listed as a JFW), Dick Finnegan and Brit Al Foreman who obviously will be seeking to fill that vacant GBU title slot.

Predictions: Did better here than with other 1919 forecasts; was right in calling Kilbane as capturing the WBA crown -- also correct in forecasting a new NABF champ, but was wrong in predicting the title for either O'Keefe or Dundee.
For 1920, I will predict that Kilbane will remain as WBA Champ; Hill will keep the CBU belt, and also that Criqui will remain as EBU Champ. Look for changes in the NABF and USBA titles, with Sullivan and Dundee as the prime candidates to win those crowns.

[JCWeb]

1919 BW Title Bouts

WBA

Johnny Coulon CH (42-5-5) vs Philadelphia Pal Moore #3 (37-11-4)

Coulon's second title defense; two wins apiece for each man in four prior bouts. Philly Pal Moore is coming off a DQ loss to Eddie Campi.

Coulon establishes his jab early, taking the opening round. Both work outside in round two, which is essentially an even round. The "Chicago Spider," Coulon, edges ahead in rounds three and four. Toe-to-toe action in round 5 produces another even round, and the unofficial scorer has it Coulon ahead (49-46). A solid uppercut by Coulon in round 7 puts the challenger on his back, and both of his eyes start to swell. Moore recovers and actually has his best round in round 8. Coulon pads his lead and coasts the rest of the way to a UD 15 decision.

Johnny Coulon CH (43-5-5) vs Pete Herman #1 (27-3)

Coulon scored a UD 15 back in 1918, but Herman has won three in a row in his bid to regain the title.

Herman is off to a quick start, dominating the first two rounds. More of the same in round three, and already there is some puffiness visible around the left eye of Coulon. Coulon steps up the pace and is much more aggressive in round five. Both men battle on the inside in round 6, with a clearcut edge to the challenger. In round 9, Coulon sustains a cut above the left eye. The Champ goes out fighting, but the cut becomes too difficult to control, and Herman wins the belt via a TKO 12 (cuts).

Pete Herman CH (28-3) vs Kid Williams #2 (33-8)

Herman meets Kid Williams once again, holding a 3-0 edge in prior bouts. Williams enters the bout having won his last two.

Williams shocks the crowd with an opening round KD of Herman, who is quick to recover and regain his footing. Williams tries to press his early advantage in round two, but can't consolidate it. Herman trades blows with the challenger in round three, a strong one for the Champ. After a close round four, Herman has the edge as both work from the outside in round five. The ringside expert has the bout even (47-all) after five. Williams is the aggressor in round six, scoring well and causing swelling around Herman's right eye. More action favoring Williams in round seven, as he doubles up on his hook and forces Herman to cover up. Herman comes back strongly in round eight, and it's Williams who shows signs of swelling around his left eye. Herman takes round nine, Williams takes round 10, and it's 95-all going into the final rounds. Williams has the upper hand in some toe-to-toe action in the 11th. Williams presses the action in rounds 12 and 13, and Herman is cut above his right eye. Williams targets the cut in round 14, and the Champ comes on with a strong effort in the final round, doing just enough to keep his belt with a majority draw (142-142, 143-141, 142-142) in a close, tense, exciting bout.

NABF: Campi started off 1919 with this belt and defended it versus aging vet Al Delmont, and a close bout went to Campi, who rallied in the late rounds to take a UD 12. Campi then defended versus Frankie Conley, starting well and then coasting on the early lead as Conley tired badly in the later rounds. But Campi, now at Post-Prime, suffered an early cut in his next defense against Phila Pal Moore, who was declared the victor by a UTD in round 8. Finally, Memphis Pal Moore challenged his Philly counterpart for the belt and his early aggression paid off as he held on for a MD 12 to win his first title.

USBA: Frankie Burns defended this title versus Memphis Pal, staggering Moore with a big hook in round one and hanging on to register a UD 12 win. Burns then defended versus the now ex-Champ, Coulon, who started well, staggered Burns in round seven, but faded badly in the end. Burns by SD 12 to retain the USBA crown.

CBU: Australia's Vince Blackburn is paired with FLY Tancy Lee for the vacant belt. Lee, holder of the EBU and GBU FLY belt, proves himself fully capable against this BW and builds an early lead with an aggressive style. Lee by UD 12 to win his third title belt.

GBU: This belt has been vacant for some time, due to the lack of competition in the UK at the BW weight class.

EBU: France's Charles Ledoux defends versus Brit Joe Fox, who winds up taking a beating -- one early KD and two more in round 8 decide it -- Ledoux by KO 8. The Frenchman then takes on newly-minted CBU champ, FLY Tancy Lee, who is over his head as the Frenchman dominates from the start. The bout is halted in round 6, with Lee taking too much punishment. Ledoux by TKO 6.

[JCWeb]

Jan 1920 BW Division Profile

Total: 69 RL: 34 TCs: 35

RL by Career Stage:
End - 2
Post - 4
Prime - 15
Post - 6
Beginning - 7 (4 New)

Rated: 23
800+: 8
500+: 17
200+: 23

Jan 1920 Rankings (Perf Pts and Changes from Jan 1919 in parens):

Champ: Pete Herman 29-3-1 (13) (1361) (+1)
1. Kid Williams 34-8-1 (16) (1100) (+3)
2. Johnny Coulon 43-7-5 (17) (1058) (-2)
3. Eddie Campi 32-8-3 (16) (1015) (-1)
4. Charles Ledoux 36-9 (28) (954) (+5)
5. Frankie Burns 31-17-1 (7) (953) (+2)
6. Philadelphia Pal Moore 39-13-4 (14) (942) (-3)
7. Memphis Pal Moore 24-7-2 (11) (896) (-2)
8. Frankie Conley 37-20-3 (19) (692) (-2)
9. Packey O'Gatty 17-2-1 (14) (657) (+1)
10. Joe Lynch 18-4 (12) (636) (-2)

Comments: Four of the top contenders (Coulon, Campi, Burns and Conley) are at Post heading into 1920, everyone else listed is at Prime. Herman regained the WBA title belt and is riding the crest of a 6-bout win streak. Williams won three bouts plus the draw for the WBA title belt to move into the #1 contender spot, scoring wins over Kid Murphy and Joe Lynch plus a TW versus Biz Mackey. Coulon, who came into the year as the WBA champ, had piled up five straight wins but has now lost two bouts in a row (for WBA and USBA titles) and is on the downside of his career as 1920 was his RL retirement year. Campi's career stalled despite going 2-1 in title bouts, and he was held to a TD with Conley. Leodux went 4-0 in 1919, successfully defending his EBU belt and scoring wins over Memphis Pal (UD) and Frankie Burns (SD). Burns went 3-2 in five 1919 bouts, scoring a UD over FLY Frankie Mason and suffering the SD loss to Ledoux in addition to his three title tilts. Phila Pal Moore was 2-2 in 1919, scoring a TKO over Kid Murphy. Memphis Pal got back on track, winning the NABF title after dropping a UD to Ledoux and splitting a pair (one a DQ loss) with O'Gatty. Conley suffered from the effects of aging in 1919, dropping a UD to Delmont and only managing a TD with Campi. O'Gatty had the two bouts with Memphis Pal and scored a TKO over Robert Dastillon, going 3-1 overall for the year. Joe Lynch could only manage to win two bouts out of four and dropped a few spots as a result.

Other Notables: No shifts of any BWs moving in and out of the Top 10. Aging veteran Kid Murphy just missed the top 10 at #11, scoring a UD over Biderberg and a SD over Delmont but a TKO loss at the hands of Phila Pal Moore probably means his career is effectively over. #12 ranked Jack Kid Wolfe won a DQ over Dastillon and a UD over Joe Burman but stumbled in dropping a MD to Lynch that could have moved him into the top group. Joe Burman, who is still at Pre-Prime, has compiled a 14-2-3 (7) record that is good for 14th -- his best win a SD over the Frenchman, Dastillon. Little Jack Sharkey is #15 with a 20-7 (10) mark, having lost only to Biderberg (aka Louisiana) in his last four bouts. Johnny "Kewpie" Ertle, who won all three of his 1919 contests, is ranked #17 with a 18-10 (6) record. Abe Goldstein had racked up 14 wins in a row before being held to a draw by Burman and then dropping a SD to Ertle. A MD win over Vince Blackburn moved his mark to 15-1-1 (10), good for position #18 in the rankings. Brit Joe Fox is mired in the #20 spot after extending his losing skein to four by going 0-3 in 1919.
Incidentally, FLY Tancy Lee, who won the CBU BW title in 1919, is still listed under the FLY rankings despite the fact that all his 1919 bouts were against bantams.

Prospects: More of the same -- all were successful in padding their undefeated records versus TCs. Thus, George Marks is 12-0 (6); Carl Tremaine is 11-0 (10); Frankie Jerome is 6-0 (3); Ad Rubidoux is 5-0 (5); Pete Sarmiento is 2-0 (2) and Johnny Brown at 1-0 (1) and Harry Lake at 1-0 (0) are off to successful starts.

Retirement: One ex-Champ hung up the gloves in 1919. His stats:

Biz Mackey (USA) 1902-19 42-29-5 (17) WBA Champ Highest Rank: 1

Owen Moran, a former BW who moved up to FW, also retired in 1919. His stats are contained in this year's FW Division Profile.

Looking Ahead: Herman may be set for a long run, but hard to say given the recent history of this division. Williams and Ledoux appear to be the most likely WBA title challengers. Frankie Burns, having reached Post-Prime, may not be able to keep the USBA crown much longer. Abe Goldstein has made it to the top 20 and will be a potential future top 10 contender. It will be interesting to see if top FLYs like Jimmy Wilde and Tancy Lee can make additional inroads in this relatively thin division.

Predictions: Two for four in 1919; correct about Memphis Pal finally winning a title and Ledoux retaining the EBU belt but was wrong on Coulon keeping the WBA crown and in predicting Fox as a CBU/GBU champion.
For 1920, I will go with Ledoux as the next WBA champ; I also forecast Fox (once again) taking the CBU belt from the 38-year-old Lee in 1920. Expect one of the younger BWs, probably Joe Lynch, to succeed Burns as USBA Champ. Also, at least three newcomers into next year's Top 10 list.

[JCWeb]

1919 FLY Title Bouts

WBA

Jimmy Wilde CH (34-3-1) vs Sid Smith #6 (27-16)

It's the sixth meeting of these two, and so far it's a lopsided rivalry, 5-0 for Wilde. Smith got by Symonds via a DQ to put himself in line for a title shot.

A strong start for Wilde in round one, and already Smith's right eye is showing signs of swelling. The "Mighty Atom" takes round two by fighting outside, then really steps up the pressure in round three. Smith is trapped in a neutral corner, and Wilde quickly finishes him off. Wilde by KO 3.

Jimmy Wilde CH (35-3-1) vs Young Zulu Kid #3 (20-7-2)

Second meeting, Wilde having won the first via KO in 1917. Young Zulu Kid has put together a five-bout win streak, including capture of the NABF belt, to earn his first WBA title chance.

Wilde takes charge early, nailing the Kid with a strong cross to take round one. Wilde moves inside, pressing the action in round two, but he runs into some solid defense from Kid. Both lay back on the outside in round three, which also sees Kid come out on top. Wilde moves inside, and aggressively pursues the challenger, trapping Kid in the corner and forcing him to cover up. Wilde dominates the action in round five, and Young Zulu Kid exhibits signs of swelling about his right eye. The unofficial scorer has the bout scored 48-47 in favor of Wilde after five rounds. Both men work inside in round 6, and Wilde lands a solid right, following with a big hook. Wilde drops the game Kid in round 9 for the bout's first knockdown. The Kid tires early, is knocked down a second time in round 11. The coup de grace comes in round 12 when Kid injures his shoulder, and Wilde is the winner via TKO in round 12.

NABF: This belt is up for stake for the first time in 1919, and young Johnny McCoy (15-1) takes on Young Zulu Kid (19-7-2) for the new belt. After a fairly even opening round, Kid slices open a huge gash above the left eye of the hapless McCoy, and the result is a quick TKO 2 (cuts stoppage) win for Kid.

USBA: Frankie Mason did not defend this title in 1919.

CBU: Sid Smith did not defend this title in 1919.

GBU, EBU: Tancy Lee, who was busy seeking BW honors, did not defend either of these titles in 1919.

[JCWeb]

Jan 1920 FLY Division Profile

Total: 41 RL: 17 TCs: 24

RL by Career Stage:
End - 0
Post - 2
Prime - 5
Pre - 6
Beginning - 4 (4 New)

Rated: 9
800+: 1
500+: 3
200+: 9

Jan 1920 Rankings (Perf Pts and Changes from Jan 1919 in parens):

Champ: Jimmy Wilde 37-3-1 (35) (943) (NC)
1. Frankie Mason 27-12-1 (17) (565) (NC)
2. Tancy Lee 22-11-1 (11) (506) (NC)
3. Earl Puryear 20-10-2 (4) (485) (NC)
4. Young Zulu Kid 20-8-2 (12) (457) (+2)
5. Joe Symonds 22-9-3 (15) (432) (NC)
6. George Mendies 13-2 (12) (370) (new)
7. Johnny McCoy 15-3 (12) (363) (new)
8. Sid Smith 27-18 (11) (309) (-4)

Comments: Smith, already at Post-Prime, will be joined there by Lee, who turns 38 in 1920. Mendies and McCoy still at Pre, all the others at Prime. Wilde continues to dominate the division, going 3-0 in 1919 with a UD over BW Joe Fox to go with two title defenses, now running his win streak to four. Mason did not defend his USBA belt, stepping up to BW to drop a UD to Frankie Burns while scoring a KO over Sid Smith. Lee split his two BW title tries and now holds three belts simultaneously as he enters his first year at Post-Prime. Puryear took a SD over McCoy, avenging an earlier TKO loss to the youngster. Young Zulu Kid moved up by taking the NABF title and scoring UDs over Ladbury and McCoy, and his game title try versus Wilde won him many admirers. Symonds went 3-0 in 1919, winning two versus TCs and blasting out the aging Bill Ladbury in one. Mendies debuts at #6, losing to his countryman, BW Vince Blackburn, and coming on the short end of a UD 10 with BW Joseph Biderberg. McCoy looked like a world-beater, winning his first 13 bouts, but lost twice in 1919 to the Kid and then split the two bouts with Puryear. Finally, Sid Smith brings up the rear, losing both his 1919 bouts by KO.

Prospects: Johnny Buff is now 7-0 (4), defeating six TCs and scoring a UD 8 over Little Jack Sharkey. Pancho Villa has kept his record perfect, going 5-0 (3) versus TC opposition. Fellow Filipino Young Dencio was held to a draw in his opener, but has won four since to go 4-0-1 (1) in his first year. Little Jeff Smith has had a rocky start, losing to Buff but also to TC Jim Bannister, who held Smith to a draw in his debut bout. Little Jeff's record now stands at 3-2-1 (1).

Retirement: Bill Ladbury became the second FLY to end his career. His stats:

Bill Ladbury (UK) 1908-19 32-17-1 (16) CBU, GBU Champ Highest Rank: 1

Looking Ahead: No one on the immediate horizon to seriously challenge Wilde, so it's likely we will have to wait until Buff and Villa reach Prime. Expect Lee to have difficulty keeping all three titles once aging effects take effect in 1920. Puryear is likely to challenge Young Zulu Kid for the NABF belt.

Predictions: Last year, was correct in predicting Wilde to keep the WBA belt; was incorrect in touting Lee for the CBU belt (well he did capture the BW CBU belt, so wrong division) and in predicting McCoy as a top 5 fighter in his debut in the rankings.
First prediction -- once again, Wilde will retain the WBA title throughout 1920. Predict Puryear to take the NABF belt, and will go out on a bit a of limb and forecast Aussie Mendies as the new CBU champ.

[JCWeb]

Finally, here's the PFP list for year-end 1919:

1. Benny Leonard, LW (WBA) 1780 (+1)
2. Art Magirl, WW (WBA) 1489 (+4)
3. Harry Wills, HW 1465 (+2)
4. Sam McVey, HW 1464 (-1)
5. Pete Herman, BW (WBA) 1361 (+3)
6. Packey McFarland, WW (NABF) 1334 (+10)
7. Bartley Madden, HW (WBA) 1315 (new)
8. Sam Langford, HW 1314 (-7)
9. Mike O'Dowd, MW (WBA) 1285 (new)
10. Jack Dempsey, HW (USBA) 1275 (-6)

Dropped Out: Jack Blackburn, LW (was #7)
Johnny Coulon, BW (was #9)

Comments: Since Blackburn and Coulon will be at Post in 1920, it is unlikely they will return to the list. Initial observation -- half the fighters listed from the HW division, which no doubt is in part due to the quality but also the sheer depth (number of fighters) in that division. By contrast, FLY Champ Jimmy Wilde appears to have trouble cracking the list since that division is so thin right now.

Leonard's 1780 PP is the new all-time high for my Uni. Senior member of the Top 10 is Langford, who makes his 11th appearance on the PFP list, but since he too has hit Post-Prime, it could also be his last hurrah. McFarland is on the list for the ninth straight year, McVey for the sixth straight year, and the top-rated Leonard makes his fourth successive appearance.

Heading into the Roaring 20s, again there appears to be a real changing of the guard with guys like Leonard and Dempsey coming into their Prime as the highest rated fighters. Will take a bit of a break before starting on 1920 action in a week or so.

[JCWeb]

Data in parens: month and year won current title, then number of successful defenses in second parens.

HW
WBA Bartley Madden (Dec. 1919) (0)
NABF Jeff Clarke (Dec. 1919) (0)
USBA Jack Dempsey (Sep. 1919) (0)
CBU Colin Bell (Nov. 1919) (0)
GBU Bombadier Billy Wells (Nov. 1919) (0)
EBU Vacant (was held by Madden)

LH
WBA Gene Tunney (Oct. 1919) (1)
NABF Harry Greb (Apr. 1919) (0)
USBA Battling Levinsky (May 1919) (1)
CBU Harry Reeve (Oct. 1918) (1)
GBU Harry Reeve (Feb. 1914) (3)
EBU Battling Siki (Jan. 1919) (1)

MW
WBA Mike O'Dowd (Jul. 1919) (1)
NABF Albert Crouse (Aug. 1919) (0)
USBA Mike Gibbons (Jul. 1918) (2)
CBU Jake Ahearn (Apr. 1917) (3)
GBU Jake Ahearn (Aug. 1918) (1)
EBU Chic Nelson (Sep. 1919) (0)

WW
WBA Art Magirl (Mar. 1916) (11)
NABF Packey McFarland (May 1920) (20)
USBA Jack Britton (May 1918) (2)
CBU Johnny Basham (Feb. 1916) (6)
GBU Bombadier Billy Wells (Jan. 1919) (1)
EBU Ted Kid Lewis (Sep. 1919) (0)

LW
WBA Benny Leonard (Feb. 1916) (15)
NABF Jack Blackburn (Mar. 1916) (10)
USBA Rocky Kansas (Apr. 1917) (3)
CBU Herb McCoy (Jul. 1918) (2)
GBU Jem Driscoll (May 1917) (2)
EBU Llew Edwards (Mar. 1917) (2)

FW
WBA Johnny Kilbane (Feb. 1919) (1)
NABF Ansel Bell (Aug. 1919) (0)
USBA Patsy Brannigan (Aug. 1919) (0)
CBU Jimmy Hill (Mar. 1916) (7)
GBU Vacant
EBU Eugene Criqui (Oct. 1918) (2)

BW
WBA Pete Herman (Mar. 1919) (2)
NABF Memphis Pal Moore (Nov. 1919) (1)
USBA Frankie Burns (Jun. 1918) (2)
CBU Vacant
GBU Tancy Lee (Jul. 1919) (0)
EBU Charles Ledoux (Mar. 1912) (9)

FLY
WBA Jimmy Wilde (Aug. 1918) (3)
NABF Young Zulu Kid (Jun. 1919) (0)
USBA Frankie Mason (Dec. 1918) (0)
CBU Sid Smith (Nov. 1916) (0)
GBU Tancy Lee (Nov. 1918) (2)
EBU Tancy Lee (Sep. 1918) (0)

[mh2365]

Great stuff JC always gives me stuff to look forward to .. I might do the records thing with the title holders like I did with the HW's. Always fun to compare.

[JCWeb]

Jan. 3, 1920 -- Buffalo's Memorial Auditorium -- Mickey Walker, the highly regarded MW prospect, kicks off the new year by stepping up in a scheduled 8-rounder, taking on TC Jeff Dodge (0-5).

Round one, the Toy Bulldog comes out swinging, missing with a roundhouse punch, forcing Dodge to retreat into a neutral corner. Walker unleashes a big uppercut, staggering his hapless opponent while opening a gash above Dodge's right eye. Walker follows with a jab and some punishing body shots. Dodge tries to evade more punishment, but Walker is relentless in applying the pressure. Then, as the seconds tick off, a huge Walker right lands like a lightning bolt, and Dodge drops to the canvas. He's counted out at 2:13 of the first.

Walker moves to 6-0, all wins by KO, four inside round one. He has a total of 412 PP, and is expected to be back in action in March 1920.

[JCWeb]

January 31, 1920 -- Los Angeles: Unbeaten FLY prospect Pancho Villa fights on the undercard in Los Angeles, taking on winless TC Oscar Sewall, who enters the 8-rounder with a 0-4-1 career record as compared to the unbeaten 5-0 career start of Villa.

First round, Sewall retreats to the neutral corner, and Villa nails him with a solid left. Villa quickly follows with a left, a right, and another left. Some fancy footwork by Villa, then he connects with an uppercut that lands right on the button. A cross scores for Villa, who then pours it on even more with a hook to the head, then a right cross. Sewall tries to cover up, but Villa shoots a jab, then doubles up on his punches. Sewall is taking a real beating and shows no sign of fighting back. At 2:41 of the first, the ref saves him from further punishment, and it's a TKO win for Villa.

The win moves Villa to 6-0 (4 by KO) worth 401 PPs. He is slated to take a couple of months off before resuming his career in April.

[JCWeb]

Feb. 21, 1920 -- Toronto, Maple Leaf Gardens -- LH Prospect Tommy Loughran travels north of the border for his first bout of the year, his third fight overall, a scheduled 6-rounder versus German TC Karl Carsten. Karsten is 1-2 after surprising RL boxer Charles Baechli, a Swiss, with a SD win in his debut. So, should be an interesting test for Loughran.

First round, Loughran moves to the inside to take charge of the action right away. He lands a nice uppercut to the chin of Carsten, then follows with a straight right that glances off the shoulder. Loughran stuns his opponent with some hard shots to the head, picking off Carsten's jab. The bell sounds after a strong opening round by Loughran.

Round two, more of the same as Loughran pressures his man on the inside. Carsten tries to land a few shots, is warned by the referee for some roughhouse tactics. Loughran then gets back on target with a left and a short hook to the head, then flicks some jabs to take the round.

Third round, Loughran stays on the inside, lands a few quick jabs, then a hook to the body. Carsten counters with a jab that does little damage. Loughran is able to block or slip a series of punches from the German. The round is dominated by strong defense from Loughran.

Round four, Loughran works from outside, missing with a roundhouse blow. He then works to establish the jab, doubling up on it to keep Baechli at bay. A right finds the target, followed with a cross and then a jab, then another lead right and another jab, concluding another strong round for Loughran.

Fifth round, Loughran is looking for the KO while Casten is staying on the outside. A series of blows has Carsten cornered, up against the ropes. Loughran doubles up on the jab and then lands a punishing hook to the body. Carsten is in trouble after Loughran unleashes a straight right, an uppercut, and a cross, all of which find their mark. However, Carsten manages to last to the bell despite Loughran racking up 27 scoring points in a very dominant round 5.

Sixth and final round of the bout: Loughran, working outside, eases up a bit. Carsten's punches are blocked, and Tommy rips an uppercut from outside and follows with a couple of jabs and a hook to the head. Loughran's successful jab opens a mouse under the right eye of Carsten, who surprisingly manages to stay on his feet until the final bell.

The outcome from the judges is no surprise, as their scorecards document a very solid effort of Loughran, who dominated Carsten with his jab and strong defense. Louhgran by UD 6 (60-54. 60-53, 60-53) to move to 3-0 (1 KO) worth 319 PPs.

[JCWeb]

March 20, 1920, NYC's St. Nicholas Arena: Two leading prospects, LHW Tommy Loughran and the popular MW Mickey Walker put their skills on display tonight, with Walker breaking with the tried and true path of facing only TCs and taking on another unbeaten prospect in an 8-rounder. But first up is Loughran, who takes on TC Larry Lemmons (0-4) in a scheduled 6-round bout.

Round one, Loughran works inside, hammers Lemmons with a big uppercut, misses with a follow-up roundhouse punch. He lands another uppercut, and controls the rest of the action with his jab. Strong opening round for Loughran.

Second round, Loughran is more aggressive, looking for a knockout. He bounces a right off the forehead of Lemmons, then staggers his opponent with a left hook. A clash of heads and Lemmons is cut above the left eye. Loughran's jabs also find their mark, and a mouse forms under Lemmons' left eye.

Round three, Loughran stays outside, doubles up on the jab, causing the cut to worsen. Lemmons is offering little in the way of resistance.

Round four, Loughran is once again the aggressor, and the cut above Lemmons' eye is becoming difficult to control. Loughran probes with the jab and scores with a big hook right before the bell.

Fifth round, Loughran forces his way inside, lands a three punch combo and follows with a hook to the head. Loughran cuts the ring off but can't finish Lemmons.

Final round, Loughran is in command and causes the cut to reopen, this time it leads to a stoppage and, as it was deemed the result of an unintentional butt, we go to the scorecards after five.

Loughran by UTD (50-45, 50-44, 50-44) to run his record to 4-0 (1 KO) and 342 PP.

Next up is Mickey Walker, and the "Toy Bulldog" takes a major step up to take on unbeaten Dave Rosenberg, who is 5-0 (1) entering the bout. It's the first real test for the popular and talented MW.

Round one, Rosenberg leads with a hook to the body, Walker moves inside, crowding his opponent and missing with a combination. A glancing right by Rosenberg slips through. Walker comes on strongly in the latter part of the round, landing a strong uppercut and a straight right to take the round.

Second round, Walker works the inside while Rosenberg assumes a defensive posture. Walker unleashes a strong right to the head, then lands several shots in succession. A bad cut appears above the left eyebrow of Rosenberg. The cut is bleeding profusely, and it leads to a quick stoppage.

Walker by TKO at 1:57 of round two to keep his slate clean at 7-0, all inside the distance. He now has 468 PPs.

[JCWeb]

April 3, 1920 -- Mammoth Gardens, Denver CO -- Pancho Villa, the talented Filipino FLY prospect, puts his 6-0 record on the line in a scheduled 8-rounder versus American TC Mario Dawkins (1-6).

Round one, Villa moves inside and nails Dawkins with an uppercut. Then he shoots a right hand home. Dawkins is forced to retreat to his own corner. Villa lands another blow, Dawkins lands a counter. Rest of the round, it's all Villa as he demonstrates his superior hand speed, landing an uppercut in close, following with a jab and another uppercut -- and Dawkins' right eye is starting to swell up after a dominating opening round for the Filipino.

Second round, Villa continues to aggressively push forward as Dawkins tries to stay away on the outside. Dawkins starts the action with a hook, but Villa counters with a lead right and sidesteps a left from Dawkins. Dawkins tumbles to the canvas, but it is ruled a slip -- no knockdown. Villa works the jab for the rest of the round and takes the round despite some resistance from Dawkins.

Round three, Villa is working outside this round, and he rips a hook to the head, then finds the range with a two-punch combination. He traps Dawkins in the corner, pawing with the jab. Dawkins flails away with an overhand right that has little effect on Villa, who stuns his opponent with a sweet uppercut, and Dawkins is barely able to make it to the bell.

Fourth round, and Villa is now looking for the knockout. He shoots a short uppercut in close. Dawkins tries to stall by clinching, but Villa pushes off and nails him with a huge cross. The swelling on Dawkins' eye is worsening noticeably. Villa doubles up on the jab, then follows up with a strong cross. Dawkins tries a hook that is blocked by Villa. Villa then lands a flurry, and Dawkins has no response to a three-punch combo. Four seconds from the end, the ref has seen enough and the bout is stopped. TKO 4 for Villa.

The win moves Villa's record to 7-0 (5 inside the distance) and 428 PPs.

[JCWeb]

April 24, 1920 -- Boston Garden: Mickey Walker, the popular MW prospect, put his perfect 7-0 record on the line in an 8-rounder against veteran TC Buddy Jeffers. Given that Jeffers had yet to win in seven prior trips to the ring, he was expected to offer little resistance to the talented Walker.

Round one, Walker opens the action by landing a short uppercut in close. Jeffers counters with a big hook. Walker swings and misses with a roundhouse punch full of bad intentions. Jeffers is an inviting target, and Walker lands a series of combinations to both the head and the body. Jeffers goes down but is up at the count of two. Walker's killer instinct kicks in and he tries to finish matters by trapping Jeffers in the corner, but the bell sounds with Buddy still on his feet. Still, a huge round one for Mickey.

Second round, Walker quickly moves inside and nails Jeffers with a right to the jaw. Jeffers misses with a left and a right. Walker backs his man into a neutral corner but is short with his jab. Jeffers lands with a weak counter. Walker misses with a hook but finds the range with a straight right. The ref, Artie Donovan, warns Walker for a low blow. Walker backs up and lands a tremendous shot that sends Jeffers to the canvas for the second time. This happens right before the bell, which can't save him. So Jeffers is counted out; it goes down as a KO for Walker at 3:00 of round two.

Walker now moves to 8-0 (all 8 by KO), and only one opponent has lasted beyond two rounds. He now has 489 PPs.

Walker will take a brief hiatus before returning to the ring in August. Look for one or two more 8-rounders before he moves up to the longer 10-round bouts.

[JCWeb]

Dateline Los Angeles, May 22, 1920 -- Unbeaten FLY prospect Pancho Villa faces his toughest test to date. Villa, 7-0 (5), takes on Litte Jeff Smith, a RL FLY who has posted a 4-2-1 (2) record thus far, in a scheduled 8-rounder.

Round one, Smith misses with a cross and then allows Villa to flick a punch over Smith's jab. Pancho follows up with a short hook to the ribs, then fires the jab and comes in behind it with a hook to the head. Smith stays upright and even manages to nail Villa with an uppercut right before the bell. Strong start for Villa, but Smith proved he was not going to be an easy opponent.

Second round, Villa stays on the outside while Smith moves inside. Two quick jabs by Villa, then Smith answers with a jab of his own. After some clinching, Smith breaks free and shoots a jab home. A series of solid shots land for Villa, who comes on strongly near the end of the round by landing a couple of strong combinations.

Round three, it's Villa's turn to work inside while Smith tries to stay outside. Villa hammers a huge left that stuns Smith. Little Jeff Smith tries to clinch, but Villa shows superior hand speed. Villa continues with a strong round, but he cannot put Smith away.

Fourth round, Villa is looking to finish matters while Smith adopts a defensive posture. Villa opens with a three-punch combo, Smith misses, then a huge uppercut lands for Villa and Smith is in trouble. Villa leads with the jab, and this time Smith counters with a quick uppercut. Villa steps back and fires a hook to the body. Villa lands a clean jab but can't follow up, allowing Smith to survive another round. Halfway through, and the unofficial ringside expert has Villa in front, 39-36.

Round five, both men stay on the outside. Smith's hands are kept low, not much action for the first minute or so. Smith is clinching, then all of a sudden Villa is called for a low blow. In a controversial decision, Villa is DQ'd and Smith is awarded the bout on a foul. (Villa was well ahead on all three cards at the time.)

The defeat drops Villa's career marks to 7-1 (5), worth 330 PPs.