RIP Willie Pep

[sabotai]

Probably the best pure boxer ever.

http://www.boston.com/sports/other_s...rlds_pinnacle/

Willie Pep, 84; featherweight reached boxing world's pinnacle

By Michael J. Bailey, Globe Staff | November 25, 2006


Willie Pep, considered pound for pound one of the top boxers to lace on a pair of gloves, died Thursday at West Hill Convalescent Home in Rocky Hill, Conn. The "Will o' the Wisp" was 84.

Mr. Pep had been in failing health and had advanced Alzheimer's disease, family members told the Hartford Courant this fall.

He had learned to fight while protecting his turf as a shoeshine boy on the street corners of Hartford's North End. From there, the elusive Mr. Pep -- a featherweight -- flitted and floated, danced and dodged to the pinnacle of the boxing world.

He won a staggering number of matches. After winning 62 fights in New England as an amateur, Mr. Pep won his first 63 professional fights, setting a record for the best start to a career. After finally losing a match -- against future Hall of Famer Sammy Angott, in a heavier weight class -- he reeled off 73 consecutive fights without losing. That, too, was a record.

[sabotai]

So good, he once won a round on all three judges scorecards without throwing a single punch.

http://www.eastsideboxing.com/williepep.html