Athletes - Benny Leonard

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	Athletes - Benny Leonard

Benny Leonard (April 17, 1896—April 18, 1947), born Benjamin Leiner, was an American boxer and one of the greatest lightweight fighters of all time. The "Ghetto Wizard" as he was known was born and raised in the Jewish ghetto, which was then located in the lower east side of Manhattan, New York City.

Leonard was known for his speed, excellent boxing technique and ability to think fast on his feet. He also was a hard hitter, who scored 69 KOs out of his 157 wins. Leonard was defeated 11 times and was held to s draw on 5 occasions. As was common in the era in which he fought, Leonard engaged in several no decision matches, and is believed to have fought 213 bouts.

Leonard is widely acknowledged as one of the greatest lightweights who ever lived. In its September 2001 issue, The Ring magazine ranked Leonard number two in its list of the greatest lightweights of all time.

Leonard retired from boxing in 1924 as the reigning world's lightweight champion. Unfortunately, he lost his considerable fortune in the stock market crash of 1929, and embarked on an ill-advised comeback in 1931. Although described as pudgy and slow, the balding Leonard won 23 fights, albeit against nondescript opposition, before meeting a championship caliber fighter. On October 7, 1932 his career ended when he was TKOed in 6 rounds by future champion Jimmy McLarnin.

Leonard also challenged welterweight champion Jack Britton for his title on June 26, 1922. In a suspicious ending, Leonard appeared to be winning the fight when he knocked Britton down in the 13th round. Then, in a totally uncharacteristic and unexpected move, Leonard proceeded to hit Britton when his opponent was down on one knee. The referee promptly disqualified Leonard.

After his boxing career was over, Leonard became a popular referee. In 1947, while refereeing a match, Leonard was stricken with a massive heart attack and died in the ring.

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Athletes - Benny Leonard

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