lets have a bit of talk on him hey fellas. any of you historians know much about him as a fighter? i was reading a bit about him and it seems like he was a pretty massive australian icon that just sort of fell off the map. was voted australian sporstperson of the century in 47. when bradman was still batting! can any of you lads tell me more about him?
Irish born Australian. Considered one of top middleweights in history, beat a host of top contenders fighting in Sydney, and Maitland. Was due to fight in the US but had trouble getting a fight because of his label as a draft dodger. Caught an infection and died early at 21. Definitely an Australian icon.
the best 160 fighter Australia has very seen, the Maitland wonder, would have been one of the greatest 160 fighter's of all time if he had not died at 21
Enormous strenght due to his early work as a metal worker. Devout Catholic (attending mass every day). His father was alcoholic. Had a tendancy to smile throughout his fights at his opponents and the crowd. Had a few loses and usually controversal at that. All round champion. To his credit (being Irish) he was more commited to his family than fighting for England. This definately cost him his career defining fights.
i thought he was koori as well mate - i have no idea why maybe i confused him with Lionel Rose or something