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Jan 1926 FLY Division Profile

Total: 61 RL: 35 TC: 26

RL by Career Stage:
End - 1
Post - 6
Prime - 14
Pre - 7
Beginning - 7 (5 New)

Rated: 23
800+: 1
500+: 13
200+: 21

Jan 1926 Rankings (Perf Pts and Changes from Jan 1925 in Parens):

Champ: Elky Clark 21-4-1 (14) (792) (+2)
1. Frankie Genaro 20-6 (13) (829) (+4)
2. Newsboy Brown 19-2-1 (9) (791) (+2)
3. Johnny Buff 22-9-1 (8) (636) (+3)
4. Pancho Villa 26-5-1 (12) (635) (-4)
5. Jimmy Wilde 49-9-3 (43) (623) (-4)
6. Izzy Schwartz 15-4-1 (4) (613) (new)
7. Johnny McCoy 26-16-1 (14) (597) (+7)
8. Young Zulu Kid 32-14-1 (14) (584) (-5)
9. Pinky Silverberg 19-8-2 (9) (559) (NC)
10. Kid Socks 16-2-1 (8) (555) (new)

Comments: Schwartz joins others at Prime in 1925 while Buff joins Villa and Wilde at Post; Kid Socks hits Prime after one more bout. Clark recovered from a KO loss to Brown early in the year to make his title run. Genaro, who still has the most PPs, bounced back with a TKO win over Vince Blackburn after his disappointing DQ title setback. Brown had a four-bout win streak snapped with the title loss. Buff scored a UD 10 upset of Villa to go 3-1 for the year after three title tilts. Villa has started to show the effects of aging, dropping his last two (UD losses to Buff and Socks) and only scraping through with a SD over Dencio. Wilde did even worse, going winless in three 1925 contests, managing a draw with Black Bill after two disappointing SD losses. Schwartz swept into the top group after an active year, reversing an earlier loss to Socks and hammering out a UD over Perfetti after a draw in an earlier bout. McCoy went through the year unbeaten, registering two title wins, a UD over Schwartz but struggled to draw with Willie LaMorte. Young Zulu Kid fell short in his USBA title bid, but managed wins over Russo (MD) and Mendies (SD). Silverberg struggled after his upset SD win over Wilde, dropping both NABF and USBA title bouts. Socks reached the top 10 despite a UD loss to Schwartz that snapped a 7-bout unbeaten string, which included a DQ win over Perfetti, a UD 10 versus Villa, an earlier SD over Schwartz, and a draw with Joe Symonds.

Other Notables: NABF titleholder Black Bill slid three spots to #11, holding Wilde to a draw while splitting two title contests; his career record, worth 555 points, stands at 15-4-3 (8). OPBF titleholder George Mendies fell from #7 to #14, losing twice in 1925 to Young Zulu Kid (SD) and Russo (UD) to extend his losing streak to four bouts. Canadian Alex Burlie slipped six spots to #16, after going winless in 1925 with two draws (versus Puryear and Mason) and suffering a SD loss to Perfetti. Perfetti, who was the top newcomer (other than those who reached the top ten) at #12, had a busy year, with six bouts, downing Burlie (SD), TKOing Dencio but falling short versus Socks (DQ loss) and Schwartz (a draw and a loss); his career record is not 16-3-1 (9), putting him in Prime career stage starting in 1926.

Prospects: Ruby Bradley was held to a draw with Jimmy Russo, now rated #15, after TKOing veteran Earl Puryear; his career record, which includes an early TC loss, is now 11-1-1 (3). Top prospect Fidel LaBarba scored a TKO 5 over Frankie Mason, lifting his career total to 10-0-1 (8), the only blemish being a technical draw with a TC opponent. German Harry Stein (8-0, 7 KO); Italian Johnny Vacca (7-0, 4 KO) kept their slates clean versus TCs. Albert Belanger at 6-0-1 (4) added TC wins after an early draw. Midget Wolgast won his initial bout via KO, while Jackie Brown took an easy decision in his debut, both versus TCs.

Retirements: None in 1925.

Looking Ahead: Looks like a changing of the guard at the top of the FLY division, as veterans Wilde, Villa and now Buff are likely to fade from the scene, leaving it to younger FLYs like Genaro, LaBarba, Clark, Newsboy Brown, Izzy Schwartz, Kid Socks, and others. Five new FLYs will be added in 1926, paced by Frenchmen Eugene Pladner and Eugene Huat and Brit Johnny Hill.

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1925 Recap -- PFP Rankings

Here's the Pound-for-Pound Rankings for 1925 (Changes from last year in Parens):

1. Benny Leonard, LW, WBA Champ, 1766 (NC)
2. Jack Dempsey, HW, WBA Champ, 1749 (+1)
3. Gene Tunney, HW, 1724 (-1)
4. Harry Wills, HW, NABF Champ, 1639 (+1)
5. Harry Greb, LH, WBA Champ, 1594 (-1)
6. Ted Kid Lewis, WW, WBA Champ, 1524 (NC)
7. Mickey Walker, MW, WBA Champ, 1489 (+2)
8. Bryan Downey, MW, NABF Champ, 1396 (NC)
9. George Godfrey, HW, 1386 (-2)
10. Joe Lynch, BW, 1371 (new)

Dropped from 1924 List: Lew Tendler, LW (was #9)
Lynch had previously been on 1921-23 PFP lists.

Leonard tops the list for the third straight year, and he is approaching the all-time high year-end PP total, which is 1780, set by Leonard at the end of 1919. Leonard and Wills are both appearing on the list for the ninth time, Dempsey for the eighth time.

Leonard at LW, Dempsey and Tunney at HW, Greb at LH, Lewis at WW and Walker at MW are the established stars of the Universe right now. Other divisions (FW, BW, FLY) are in a transitional changes, with no dominant figures, while the JWW and JLW divisions have yet to firmly establish themselves.

Here's a few Stats and Records at this point in time:

All-Time

Wins Abe Attell (77)
KOs Tommy Ryan (60)
Bouts Jack Blackburn (101)
Consec. Wins NP Jack Dempsey and Jack McAuliffe (45)
Consec. KOs Jack McAuliffe (21)

Active Fighters

Wins Packey McFarland (62)
KOs Jack Dempsey (45)
Bouts Leo Houck (86)
Consec. Wins Benny Leonard (42)
Consec. KOs Jack Dempsey (18)

[JCWeb]

Title Belt Holders as of Jan. 1, 1926
(Date title won and number of successful defenses in Parens)

HW
WBA: Jack Dempsey (May 1925) (1)
NABF: Harry Wills (Sep. 1925) (0)
USBA: Homer Smith (Nov. 1925) (0)
CBU: Bartley Madden (Mar. 1924) (4)
GBU: Phil Scott (Nov. 1925) (0)
EBU: Erminio Spalla (Dec. 1924) (1)
OPBF: Tom Heeney (May 1925) (0)
LH
WBA: Harry Greb (Apr. 1924) (5)
NABF: Jimmy Slattery (Jul. 1925) (1)
USBA: Ad Stone (Mar. 1925) (0)
CBU: Len Harvey (Apr. 1924) (2)
GBU: Len Harvey (Dec. 1923) (2)
EBU: Len Harvey (Oct. 1925) (0)
MW
WBA: Mickey Walker (Apr. 1925) (2)
NABF: Bryan Downey (Jan. 1925) (1)
USBA: Jock Malone (Jan. 1925) (1)
CBU: Frank Moody (Dec. 1922) (2)
GBU: Roland Todd (May 1923) (0)
EBU: Rene DeVos (May 1925) (1)
WW
WBA: Ted Kid Lewis (Jun. 1923) (8)
NABF: Tommy Robson (Sep. 1925) (0)
USBA: Jack Sparr (Dec. 1924) (2)
CBU: Bermondsey Billy Wells (Mar. 1924) (3)
GBU: Hamilton Johnny Brown (Aug. 1923) (1)
EBU: Bermondsey Billy Wells (Jan. 1925) (1)
OPBF: Paul Demsky (Apr. 1924) (1)
JWW
WBA: Pinkey Mitchell (Jul. 1923) (3)
USBA: Basil Galiano (Oct. 1924) (0)
LW
WBA: Benny Leonard (Dec. 1922) (12)
NABF: Johnny Kaiser (Sep. 1925) (1)
USBA: Jimmy Goodrich (Feb. 1925) (2)
CBU: Billy Grime (Dec. 1924) (1)
GBU: Ernie Rice (Jul. 1922) (2)
EBU: Benny Valgar (Apr. 1924) (1)
JLW
WBA: Johnny Dundee (Dec. 1921) (11)
USBA: Eddie Wagner (Nov. 1925) (0)
FW
WBA: Young Johnny Brown (Sep. 1925) (0)
NABF: Benny Bass (May 1924) (3)
USBA: Bud Ridley (Sep. 1925) (1)
CBU: Leo Roy (Jun. 1924) (1)
GBU: Al Foreman (Oct. 1924) (1)
EBU: Andre Routis (Nov. 1925) (0)
OPBF: Elino Flores (Sep. 1923) (4)
BW
WBA: Pete Sarmiento (Sep. 1925) (1)
NABF: Harold Smith (Apr. 1925) (2)
USBA: Bud Taylor (Jul. 1925) (1)
CBU: Johnny Brown (Nov. 1922) (2)
GBU: Johnny Brown (Aug. 1924) (0)
EBU: Teddy Baldock (Sep. 1925) (0)
OPBF: Vacant
FLY
WBA: Elky Clark (Nov. 1925) (0)
NABF: Black Bill (May 1925) (0)
USBA: Johnny McCoy (Sep. 1925) (1)
CBU: Jimmy Wilde (Dec. 1923) (0)
GBU: Vacant
EBU: Jimmy Wilde (Apr. 1923) (0)
OPBF: George Mendies (Aug. 1922) (1)

Comments: Leonard (with 12 successive defenses) and Dundee (with 11) have been the most successful among the current champions. 24 of 56 titles changed hands in 1925. Ted Kid Lewis (with 8) and Harry Greb (with 5) are the only other titleholders with more than five successful defenses, as many reigns have been very short-lived, obviously this is often the case with the lesser titles as fighters advance up the ranks to a higher title.

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January 9, 1926 -- The Forum, Montreal: Unbeaten Canadian WW prospect Jimmy "Baby Face" McLarnin takes another step forward in his career, taking on former GBU WW Champ Matt Wells in just his 13th pro bout. McLarnin puts his unbeaten record on the line against the venerable but aging vet Wells, who with a career mark of 32-32-5 (3) bears the scars from numerous ring wars but is now on his last legs.

Round one, McLarnin just misses with the jab, scoring on a follow-up cross. Wells retreats out of range to a neutral corner. The two exchange blows, McLarnin shoots a jab, works to the head and chest, then connects with a short hook. Wells appears vulnerabel, but McLarnin misses with a left and a right. Wells shoots a jab that is picked off by McLarnin. McLarnin then drills Wells with a left-right-left combination, follwing with an uppercut right before the bell. Strong start from McLarnin.

Second round, McLarnin is content to fire away from the outside. McLarnin unleashes a series of blows to the chest and neck of Wells. The British vet is off target with his punches. More body shots from McLarnin. A quick uppercut rocks Wells. A right hand and a clean hook land for McLarnin. Wells retreats and is pinned against the ropes. He manages to tie up McLarnin, who is halted in his forward progress. A late flurry from McLarnin keeps up the pace, sealing another round as the crowd roars.

Round three, McLarnin presses forward on the inside while Wells tries to maintain his distance. McLarnin works his way inside, scoring with a quick flurry. Wells, backpedaling, is wild with a left. McLarnin doubles up on a jab, then fires a right that bounces off Wells' shoulder. Wells fires abck with a jab of his own. McLarnin wins the round, but by a much narrower margin than the first two.

Round four, both men elect to mix it up on the inside. McLarnin works to the head and the body, then follows with a right cross that lands flush on Wells' chin. Another cross, a straight right and a couple of quick jabs from "Baby Face," and Wells is in trouble. He clinches, then McLarnin breaks free to hammer a huge left. Wells absorbs the blow and battles back with a weak jab. McLarnin sets his feet, landing a powerful cross that makes his opponent wince. Wells, staggered, manages to cover up to last the round.

Fifth round, this time McLarnin is looking for the KO while Wells is only looking to survive. After some clinching, a right cross scores for McLarnin. McLarnin circles his hapless opponent, is off target with a right and flicks a harmless combination. Wells sticks out a defensive jab. McLarnin follows Wells to a neutral corner, finding the range with a left hook but then he cannot follow up. Wells uses the jab effectively. McLarnin comes in behind the jab to set up an uppercut, and the bell saves Wells from further punishment. Halfway through this 10-rounder, the unofficial card has it down as a whitewash (50-45) for McLarnin.

Round six, McLarnin continues to press forward on the inside while Wells adopts a defensive posture. McLarnin stuns Wells with a sharp combination. McLarnin follows with a lead right that Wells manages to duck. A quick hook to the head staggers the British vet, who seems to be out on his feet. A big hook from McLarnin lands, but yet Wells manages to stay on his feet and survive yet another onslaught.

Seventh round, Wells seems to be more aggressive, and McLarnin is still looking to finish matters. A solid cross from "Baby Face" leads to the fight's first knockdown. Wells is back up at the count of three. McLarnin hooks to the head and body, then a straight right is blocked by Wells. Another McLarnin hook and Wells crumples to the canvas in a delayed reaction to the blow. A badly shaken Wells struggles to his feet, but McLarnin can't find the range and the bell ends the round.

Round eight, McLarnin is again looking for the knockout while Wells is once again in a defensive mode. A McLarnin uppercut forces Wells to retreat. "Baby Face" moves inside and scores with another uppercut. Another huge cross stuns Wells, then another uppercut; Wells seeks refuge in a neutral corner. McLarnin lands another cross and peppers Wells with a crippling right to the head. Wells' left eye is starting to swell up noticeably now, and another round is in the books.

Ninth round, McLarnin presses the action on the inside while Wells tries to get more aggressive. Wells is trapped in the corner, and McLarnin fires away with a huge left and then rips an uppercut. Wells fights back, firing a hook of his own, but McLarnin is undeterred, shooting home a lead right and another right. The two come together, and McLarnin is called for a head butt. Two strong shots to the body from McLarnin, and then the round is over.

Final round, Wells is desperately looking for a late knockout as his only chance, given how McLarnin has dominated the action so far. Wells comes up short, then McLarnin scores with a right and sticks a jab to the chest of Wells. McLarnin flings an uppercut, then follows with a jab as he wisely stays away from Wells' power. Wells ducks under a McLarnin right, then lands a stiff jab. After some holding, McLarnin unleashes a late flurry before the bell sounds.

The scoring is just a formality. A dominant UD 10 win for McLarnin, by scores of 100-88, 99-89 and 97-91. His career record is lifted to 13-0 (11), worth 569 PPs.

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Munich, Germany, Amor Bahn, January 16, 1926: Young German HW hopeful Max Schmeling, aka "The Black Uhlan of the Rhine," returns to his home country tonight to take on fellow German, TC Dirk Manstein, in a scheduled 8-rounder. Manstein's 0-5 career record does not bode well for him in tonight's matchup versus the 5-0 (4) Schmeling.

Round one, Schmeling shows good ring movement, circling to the right then drilling Manstein with a left-right-left combination. Manstein is stunned by the sharp exchange, and the flow of blood appears from a cut on his forehead. Schmeling backs Manstein into a corner, misses with a jab and is short with a follow-up left. After a lull in the action, Schmeling connects with a right that lands flush on the chin of Manstein. Max follows with a straight right that is blocked by the gloves. Good start for Schmeling.

Schmeling is looking to do more damage in round two, pressing the action on the inside while Manstein's corner did a good job patching up the cut. Schmeling scores with a jolting uppercut. A leaping shot from Manstein falls short. Schmeling battles his way off the ropes, firing a volley of blows, several of which get through. A nice uppercut rocks Manstein back on his heels. Manstein bobs and weaves, sneaking a right hand home. Another big uppercut from Max, and Manstein's right eye is starting to puff up. Schmeling doubles up on the hook, then follows with a right cross, and Manstein is in trouble as the cut is reopened. He tries to retreat out of range, but Schmeling stays in contact, landing a massive shot right below the ribcage. Manstein falls down like he's been shot and does not get up.

It goes down as a KO for Schmeling after 2:53 of round two. The win lifts Max's record to 6-0 (5 KOs), worth 417 PPs. He plans to return to the ring in February.

[JCWeb]

Jan. 23, 1926 -- St. Nicholas Arena, NY City: LW prospect Tony Canzoneri makes his second start as a pro, taking on TC Frank Barnes. Barnes is making his pro debut.

Round one, Canzoneri starts by fighting on the outside. He traps Barnes against the ropes, coming out the best in a quick, brief exchange of blows. Canzoneri pushes off his opponent, then is off target with his punches. Barnes is just short with his jab, as Canzoneri bounces out of range. Canzoneri backs up Barnes with an uppercut, and he unleashes a quick flurry of blows to the chest and neck of the retreating Barnes. Barnes misses badly with what appears to be a backhand. Canzoneri shows good lateral, side-to-side movement. Canzoneri sticks home a jab and repeatedly lands to the head and body of Barnes. Canzoneri connects with a cross, but a straight right bounces harmlessly off the shoulder. Just before the bell, Canzoneri winds a left that is side-stepped by Barnes. Good opening round, dominated by Canzoneri, who is full of energy tonight.

Second round, Canzoneri decides to fight inside. He shoots home the right, then backs up his opponent in a neutral corner. There is some pushing and shoving, and Canzoneri is momentarily off balance as he executives an unsuccessful shoulder charge. Then the boxing continues, as Canzoneri rips off a couple of shots to the head and body. Barnes is not able to respond, so Canzoneri picks up the pace, moving in behind the jab to land with a cross. Tony then takes a step back, landing to the chest and neck. Already, there is a mouse forming under Barnes' right eye. Canzoneri then opens up with a hook to the body, followed by a hook to the head. The defenseless Barnes is now very vulnerable, and he finally falls from a delayed reaction to a powerful uppercut delivered by Canzoneri. Barnes doesn't arise before the count hits ten at 2:55 of round two. KO for Canzoneri.

The win runs Canzoneri's record to 2-0 (2 KOs), worth 286 PPs. He will return to the ring in April 1926, after a three-month hiatus.

[JCWeb]

January 16, 1926 -- St. Nicholas Arena, NY City: In a main support bout, newly ranked up-and-coming LH "Slapsie Maxie" Rosenbloom takes on another top 20 LH, Charlie Nashert, aka "Young Fitzsimmons." Rosenbloom enters the bout ranked #16 with an unbeaten 14-0-1 (8) mark compared to 20-7 (7) for the 17th ranked Nashert. Could be Rosenbloom's sternest test to date.

Round one, Rosenbloom settles into a pattern, bobbing and weaving his way around the ring. Nashert clinches, then steps back to fire a cross to the forehead. Rosenbloom hooks off the jab, then turns his attention to the body. More clinching, then Nashert breaks free with a double left to the head and body. Rosenbloom fires and misses. Nashert is on target with a probing jab. Rosenbloom wings a big left that is sidestepped by his opponent. Maxie then moves inside, connecting with an uppercut. The bell sounds after an even round.

Second round, both men elect to stay on the outside. Rosenbloom pins Nashert against the ropes, unleashes a quick flurry of blows, then Nashert clinches, pushing Rosenbloom away. Rosenbloom circles the ring, then traps Nashert in the corner. Rosenbloom misses, Nashert is just short with a right. More clinching, clutching and grabbing. Rosenbloom gives a head feint, then bangs home a hook to the head. Nashert retreats, flicking a jab. There is now a cut visible just over the left eye of Nashert. Nashert fires a cross. Rosenbloom delivers an uppercut. Nashert ties up Rosenbloom, who breaks free to fire a jab right before the bell. Good round for Rosenbloom, and a shaky Nashert returns to the waiting arms of his cornermen.

Round three, Rosenbloom moves inside while Nashert protects the cut, which appears to be under control for the moment. Nashert lands a lead right. Rosenbloom backs up, responding with a probing jab. The two come together at ring center, and the referee warns Maxie for rabbit punching. Another lead right from Nashert is slipped by Rosenbloom. Rosenbloom lands to the chest and neck, and a Rosenbloom right rips open the cut again. A leaping shot from Nashert falls short. Nashert is off target with a combination, then Maxie connects with a glancing, overhand left. An uppercut from Nashert does little damage. Strong round for Rosenbloom, and Nashert's corner has its work cut out for them dealing with the cut.

Fourth round, the cut is patched up and Nashert takes a more aggressive posture while Rosenbloom stays outside. Nashert pops home a jab, then works to the head and body. Nashert follows with a two-handed attack, but an uppercut lands high on the shoulder. Rosenbloom rips another shot, opening a new cut just below the left eye of his opponent. Rosenbloom doubles up on the jab, Nashert fires back with a right but whiffs as he tries to follow up. Close round, slight edge to Nashert but the cuts are still a concern.

Round five, both men decide to throw caution to the wind and try to fight inside. Rosenbloom digs a hook that bounces off the side of Nashert, who responds with a quick jab. Rosenbloom slithers along the ropes, then connects with a well-disguised right cross. Maxie follows with a shot that is part uppercut, part hook. He sticks a jab to the chest of Nashert. Nashert slips a cross from Rosenbloom, then fires a jab. Rosenbloom continues to control the action, bobbing and weaving and firing a glancing cross. A flurry from Nashert has little effect. Rosenbloom scores with a huge left right before the bell.

At the halfway point, the unofficial scorecard has Rosenbloom up by two (49-47).

Sixth round, Rosenbloom continues to press the action on the inside. Rosenbloom misses badly, then is tied up by Nashert. Rosenbloom backs up momentarily, then fires a hook to the midsection. Nashert splits the gloves with a jab. Rosenbloom is struggling with his timing, and his hook is easily blocked by Nashert. Nashert wraps up his best round of the bout with a short hook to the jaw.

Round seven, both men are headhunting, looking for the knockout blow. Nashert flicks a jab, but misses with a follow-up punch. Rosenbloom finds the target with a short hook, and blood spurts out from the cut over Nashert's eye. The doctor is called in, shakes his head, and the bout is halted.

It goes down as a TKO for Rosenbloom just 28 seconds into the 7th. A peek at the scorecards shows a close bout, one judge having Maxie up by two, another by just one, and the third had Nashert a point ahead.

The win lifts Rosenbloom to 15-0-1 (8), worth 660 PPs, and a probable spot in the top 15 in the LH rankings.

[JCWeb]

Feb. 13, 1926 -- Montreal Forum: Unbeaten WW prospect Jimmy "Baby Face" McLarnin steps into the ring against another unbeaten prospect, Italy's Vittorio Venturi, in the main support for a WBA Flyweight title bout.

Round one, Venturi excecutes a clever head feint, then delivers a quick hook to the head, followed by a second hook. McLarnin fires a return volley, then a crippling right to the head. Venturi tries to move out of range, but McLarnin traps him in the corner. "Baby Face" uncorks a right that lands flush on the chin of Venturi. The two clinch and move back to ring center. McLarnin frees himself and wings a huge left that staggers his Italian opponent. McLarnin follows with a nice cross, then pops home a jab. He works the head and body of Venturi, who has taken a beating but is able to respond with a hard shot. The fans roar as McLarnin has dominated most of the action thus far.

Second round, both men elect to fight outside. McLarnin sticks a jab to the chest of Venturi. Then Jimmy nails his opponent wiht a strong combination, sending Venturi to the canvas for a five-count. Venturi wisely elects to cover up and is in full retreat, as McLarnin is off target with a quick flurry. The Canadian crowd favorite also fails to connect with a left-right combination. McLarnin maintains control, flicking a right off the top of the head, then hooking off the jab. However, he fails to put his opponent away as Venturi lasts the round, giving him a chance to recover and clear his head.

Round three, McLarnin presses the action on the inside while Venturi stays outside. McLarnin shoots home the right, Venturi counters with a flurry. "Baby Face" delivers with a short, quick hook. He ducks under a Venturi right and snakes a jab through the gloves. A hook to head staggers the Italian. McLarnin follows with another hook but is wild with a follow up. He wings a big left that the Italian is able to sidestep. Once again, McLarnin dominates the round but cannot put away his hurt opponent.

Fourth round sees Venturi working inside while McLarnin stays outside. Venturi seems short of breath already, half a minute into the round. Venturi misses with his jab, but a follow up hook scores. McLarnin counters with a leaping shot that falls short. Venturi is pinned against the ropes. After a quick exchange, McLarnin regains control with a solid combination, then uses his jab to set up a hook that is wild. Venturi sticks a weak jab to the chest of McLarnin. McLarnin lands a big hook right before the bell. Better round for Venturi, but McLarnin still leads.

Round five, both men work inside. McLarnin starts with a strong jab, Venturi shows good ring movement to stay out of range. McLarnin bounces a straight right off Venturi's shoulder. The Italian picks off a jab but is off target with a lead right. An uppercut by McLarnin finds its target, then a strong jab is countered by a hook from Venturi. Slight edge for McLarnin, good action round. (Unofficial scorer has it 50-44 for McLarnin at this point.)

Sixth round, McLarnin is looking to finish matters while Venturi is content to work outside. Not much action for the first minute or so. Venturi connects with a flurry. A second exchange favors the Italian. Venturi uncorks a combination before McLarnin gets going, using a jab to set up a hook and another jab which leads to a straight right that puts Venturi on his heels. Venturi is shaken by a big hook, but once again there is not enough time left in the round for McLarnin to put his opponent away. A quick uppercut scores for "Baby Face" right before the bell.

Round seven, McLarnin works the inside while Venturi, urged on by his corner, decides to become more aggressive. A straight right from the Italian splits the gloves. McLarnin connects with a cross that appears to hurt Venturi. McLarnin follows with a sharp combination, then misses badly with the follow up and the Italian beats a hasty retreat out of range. McLarnin moves forward and connects with a three-punch combination. McLarnin fires from way outside, Venturi fires back with a jab. The round ends with a bunch of clutching and grabbing. Even round.

Round eight, McLarnin stays outside while Venturi continues to look for a miracle knockout blow. A smooth jab connects for McLarnin, and the sting is starting to go from Venturi's punches. McLarnin then takes charge, landing an uppercut, picking off a jab, then following with a right-left comibination. Venturi is short with a jab. The Canadian exchanges jabs with his opponent. McLarnin lands to the chest and neck. Venturi fires and misses. McLarnin is off target. Venturi connects with a hook to the head, McLarnin is wild with a big right. Slight edge for McLarnin.

Ninth round of this scheduled 10-rounder. Venturi is going all-out for the KO now. After some pushing and shoving, McLarnin is called for holding and hitting. Venturi flicks a couple of harmless jabs that are blocked by McLarnin. The Italian follows with a big cross, probably his best punch of the fight. McLarnin withstands the barrage, but he has a point deducted for holding and hitting.

Final round. Venturi is the aggressor, as McLarnin adopts a defensive posture, resting on his apparent points lead. McLarnin retreats, Venturi throws some leather but nothing serious. Action has slowed considerably, and it's an intolerable wait for the final bell.

It goes to the scorecards, and it's a UD 10 for McLarnin, but a bit closer than one might expect (96-93, 95-94, 97-92) given the early knockdown. Still, a win is a win, and McLarnin's record is now 14-0 (11) -- one bout away from a ranking -- while Venturi slips to 10-1 (5). 619 PPs for McLarnin, which should be good for a top 20 spot with one more win. The search begins for his next opponent, and a scheduled May outing somewhere in Canada.

[JCWeb]

February 13, 1926, Palais du Sport, Cannes, France: Highly regarded HW prospect Max Schmeling is matched with another unbeaten up-and-coming German HW, Ludwig Haymann, in a scheduled 8-rounder. Schmeling enters the bout with six straight wins, five by knockown. Haymann is 5-0 (3).

First round, the bell sounds and Schmeling pops home the jab, then wings a huge left that is side-stepped by his opponent. Haymann gets in a quick flurry of blows, while Schmeling is off target. Schmeling snakes a jab in, then a follow-up flurry is blocked by Haymann. Schmeling uncorks an uppercut that stuns his countryman. The Black Uhlan connects with a right, flush on the chin of the hapless Haymann. A quick hook to the head is followed by a right cross, then the round ends with Haymann surviving ... barely.

Round two, Schmeling steps up the pace and works inside while Haymann keeps his distance. Schmeling lands a nice cross. Haymann backpedals to a neutral corner. A straight right scores for Max, and Haymann appears shaken. Schmeling advances behind a lead right, but misfires on a roundhouse left. Schmeling splits the gloves with another lead right. Haymann is backed up against the ropes now, some swelling appearing under his left eye. Schmeling works the head and body with a three-punch combo. Another big round for Max.

Third round, this time Schmeling is focused on finishing his opponent. He stalks his opponent, taking advantage of an early exchange. Max misses with his jab, while Haymann's jab is on target. Max gets in an uppercut, followed by a short hook that staggers Haymann. Another uppercut follows, but Haymann battles back, just short with a return shot. The swelling worsens, but Haymann is able to tie up Schmeling for the rest of the round.

Round four, Schmeling continues to be the aggressor while Haymann moves inside. A jolting uppercut snaps Haymann's head back. Schmeling works his way off the ropes, where Haymann attempts to tie him up. Schmeling gets in a couple of shots, while Haymann works the jab. A leaping shot from Schmeling falls just short. There is some clinching. A right scores for Schmeling, who follows with a hard shot off the top of Haymann's head right before the bell.

Round five, Haymann throws caution to the win while Schmeling fights outside. A cross from Haymann misses. Schmeling works to the head and body. The sting is starting to go from Haymann's punches. Schmeling flicks a couple of quick jabs. More clinching near ring center. Schmeling is cautioned by the referee. A hook to the body scores for Max. Schmeling delivers a huge right, that catches Haymann off balance. He sinks to the canvas, arising at the count of six. Schmeling nails Haymann with a big left, and the ref has seen enough. TKO stoppage at 2:59, Schmeling wins it!

The win lifts Schmeling to 7-0, six inside the distance, worth 464 PPs.

[JCWeb]

Feb. 20, 1926, Polo Grounds, NY City: Fan favorite, LH "Slapsie Maxie" Rosenbloom keeps active, taking on George Nichols in a top 20 matchup that serves as one of the main support bouts on tonight's card. Rosenbloom, who has compiled a near-perfect 15-0-1 (8) career start, is ranked #13 while Nichols, at 16-4-1 (7), is #17.

Round one, Nichols tries to reach Rosenbloom with a probing jab, while Maxie lands to the chest and neck. Nichols lands a quick flurry in response. Nichols tries to connect with a big uppercut, but the punch only finds air. Rosenbloom staggers Nichols with a hard hook. Rosenbloom is off target with a cross, then the two clinch at ring center. Nichols uncorks a solid combination, and Rosenbloom wings a big left. Nichols connects with a jab right before the bell. Good start for both men.

Second round, and both fighters elect to stay outside. A straight right from Nichols splits the gloves of his opponent. Nichols misses with an uppercut from way outside. Maxie responds with a two-fisted attack. Nichols is off balance for a moment, and off target with most of his punches. Rosenbloom lands a lead right. Nichols hooks off his jab. Rosenbloom is off target, and the bell sounds after another close round, slight edge for Rosenbloom.

Round three sees Rosenbloom move inside while Nichols stays outside. Nichols slithers along the ropes but is short with a leaping shot. Rosenbloom fires a volley and moves out of range. A cut appears above Nichols' right eye. Nichols flicks a stinging jab but is short with a follow up. Rosenbloom presses forward and nails Nichols with a hook to the body. Nichols delivers an uppercut to the chin. Rosenbloom responds with an uppercut of his own, and the cut appears to be a problem. Even round.

Fourth round, Rosenbloom targets the cut which has received appropriate attention from Nichols' corner. Rosenbloom retreats to a neutral corner, where he sidesteps a huge left from Nichols. Maxie picks off a jab, then fires a return jab. Nichols pumps a hard right; Rosenbloom ducks under the shot. Rosenbloom unloads with a jolting uppercut. Nichols unleashes a quick flurry. Maxie works the head and body, then reopens the cut with an uppercut. Nichols pops home the jab, and manages to clinch the rest of the way to the bell. Another close round.

Round five, both men are going toe-to-toe on the inside. Rosenbloom circles his opponent, while Nichols fires off a quick left-right. Nichols lands with an uppercut from way outside. Rosenbloom, undaunted, delivers a short hook inside the defenses of Nichols. Nichols scores with a cross. Rosenbloom delivers a right, then Nichols ducks under a follow-up shot. A right cross from Nichols backs up his opponent. Maxie fires right back, working the head and the body. Nichols is wild with a hook. Nichols works the jab. Rosenbloom lands a clean jab. Rosenbloom scores with a late flurry, and he holds a narrow lead (49-48) on the unofficial card after an exciting five rounds of action.

Sixth round, Nichols tries to work inside while Rosenbloom stays outside. Nichols backs up, seeking punching room, then the two bump heads. Nichols plants an uppercut to the chin of Rosenbloom. Maxie misses with the return shot. Nichols forces Rosenbloom to retreat, then lands a combination and follows with a strong jab. A quick hook to the head rocks Rosenbloom back on his heels. Rosenbloom doubles up on his left, but Nichols finishes with a straight right, clearly Nichols' best round of the fight.

Round seven, Rosenbloom gets more aggressive, working the inside. Maxie lands a lead right, which Nichols avoids. Rosenbloom follows with a solid uppercut that stuns his opponent. Two more quick jabs from Maxie, and Nichols is laboring now. Rosenbloom pins Nichols in the corner, but Maxie is wild with a hook. He sticks a jab to the chest of Nichols. Action is back after ring center, and Nichols lands a punch that is part hook, part uppercut. A big hook scores for Rosenbloom, who has had is best round of the fight.

Eighth round, Nichols throws caution to the wind and is looking for the knockout while a more cautious Rosenbloom stays on the outside. Nichols fires a left that bounces harmlessly off Rosenbloom's shoulder. After a bit of clutching and grabbing, Rosenbloom retreats out of range. Maxie lands a jab but is short with a second. The cut over Nichols' eye has reopened, and there is a pause while the ring doctor is called over. The bout resumes, and Nichols whiffes with a left and a right. Nichols clinches, then gets in a quick jab. Rosenbloom launches a two-fisted attack, and a follow-up uppercut finds its mark. The cut is bleeding more profusely now, and a second visit to the doctor takes place. Nichols snakes home a couple of jabs and manages to avoid further damage, enabling him to return to his corner where they feverishly work on the cut.

Round nine, Rosenbloom presses forward while Nichols looks to protect the cut which has become an issue. Nichols misses with a jab, then a cross connects for Rosenbloom. There's a clash of heads, more blood from the cut over Nichols' eye, then the ref steps in and calls a halt. After checking with the judges, it goes down as a TKO for Rosenbloom at 0:20 of the round.

The win lifts Rosenbloom to the #12 ranking, as his 16-0-1 (9) career record is worth 710 PPs.

With Rosenbloom now firmly established as a ranked LH contender, his career will now be tracked in the year-end reports from now on.

[JCWeb]

Maple Leaf Gardens, Toronto, April 17, 1926: LW prospect Tony "The Roman Warrior" Canzoneri makes his third start as a pro, taking on TC Russ Corbin, who is winless in three prior bouts. The bout is scheduled for six rounds.

Round one, Canzoneri begins cautiously, electing to stay outside. He lands with a short jab to the chest, while Corbin is off target with his jab. Canzoneri works to the head and body. Corbin ducks under Canzoneri's follow-up shot. A clean jab connects for the Roman Warrior, who looks sharp as Corbin simply can't find the range.

Second round, Canzoneri decides to step up the pace and tries to work inside. Tony fires a short hook to the ribs. After a long clinch, Corbin backs up and Canzoneri blasts away, working to the head and body then firing a hook to the body. Canzoneri pins Corbin against the ropes with his shoulder, fires a quick volley and lands a clean shot. Canzoneri doubles up on the hook, dominating the action as the bell sounds.

Third round, Canzoneri continues as the aggressor, forcing Corbin to retreat. Canzoneri works to the head and chest of his hapless opponent. Corbin is able to pick off a jab. Canzoneri is warned for holding and hitting. Corbin manages to land a couple of shots in this, his best round of the fight.

Fourth round. Canzoneri cuts loose with a strong combination, once again putting Corbin on the defensive. Corbin is short with a cross. Canzoneri lands a right cross. After some clutching and grabbing, the Roman Warrior gets his hands free and fires a barrage of unanswered blows. Corbin drops to the canvas, and he is counted out at 1:40 of round four.

The win lifts Canzoneri to 3-0 (2), worth 320 PPs. However, expect no more bouts for Tony until late summer 1926 (another layoff for the Roman Warrior).

[JCWeb]

April 24, 1926 -- NY City, Polo Grounds: Looking like a very young version of the actor Russell Crowe, James J. "Jimmy" Braddock takes to the ring for his pro debut, a four-round affair as one of the prelims leading to the World WW title bout here tonight. Braddock's opponent will be another debuting HW, TC Dick Marvin. (No relation to actor Lee Marvin).

NOTE: For this replay, I am starting out Braddock as a HW even though in RL he began his career as a LHW (eventually losing a title bout to the great Tommy Loughran). However, since he's rated as a HW and not a LH, I will stick with the one division throughout his career.

Round one, Braddock comes out swinging, pressing forward and taking the fight to his opponent on the inside. He lands a harmless combination but connects with a flurry, getting the best of that exchange. Braddock ties up Marvin, who is already looking to seek refuge in a neutral corner. A right cross scores for Braddock, who cuts the ring off from his less skillful opponent. Braddock is set up to land a haymaker, but instead he swings and misses. Marvin tries to keep his distance. Braddock gets in a right cross, then follows with a jolting uppercut to the jaw. A big hook scores for the Cinderella Man right before the bell, and the crowd roars. Dominant opening round for Jimmy Braddock.

Second round, Braddock takes an even more aggressive approach, looking for the KO punch while Marvin just tries to stay away and survive. Braddock opens the round with a nice jab, feints, then surprises Marvin with a quick hook to the head. He pins Marvin in a neutral corner. Braddock wings a big left that misses. There's some pushing and shoving against the ropes, and then Marvin sidesteps a big left from Braddock, who is starting to telegraph his punches a bit. Marvin tosses a hook, Braddock responds with an even stronger hook of his own. Braddock is struggling with his timing, but still manages to work the head and body, scoring with an uppercut right before the bell to make sure he takes round two as well.

Round three, Braddock once again plods forward, pressing the action on the inside. He throws a straight right that is blocked by the gloves of Marvin. A flurry of shots forces Marvin to retreat. Braddock flicks a jab, and the fighters return to ring center. Jimmy connects with a big right. Marvin responds with a straight right, but Braddock ducks under the shot. Still struggling to find his range, Braddock presses forward and works the head and body. Marvin appears to be wearing down. A straight right from Braddock splits the gloves. Another flurry from Braddock goes unanswered. The ref is taking a close look at Marvin right now. A lead right tags Marvin. Braddock follows with a cross. Marvin is not fighting back. A hook to the head for Braddock, and Marvin can't fend for himself. The ref steps in to call a halt to the onslaught.

Braddock wins by TKO at 2:48 of round three. His debut win is worth 244 PPs in the ratings system. He will take a few months off before returning for his second bout, scheduled for some time in July in the NY/NJ area.

[JCWeb]

May 1, 1926 -- The Forum, Montreal Quebec -- Canadian WW prospect Jimmy "Baby Face" McLarnin goes for his 15th career win without a loss and a likely top 20 ranking in the main support bout for a FW WBA title fight. His opponent, Sergeant Sammy Baker, has lost only once in 13 prior bouts, so the fight -- scheduled for 10 rounds -- should be a good one.

Round one: McLarnin works to establish a stinging jab to put his opponent on the defensive. After some pushing and shoving, Baker surprises McLarnin with a sharp combination, forcing the hot Canadian prospect to cover up. Baker follows with an uppercut, then unleashes a huge left that is sidestepped by McLarnin. Baker pins McLarnin against the ropes, but his attack is smothered by the Canadian. Baker tries to double up on his jab but misses. A hook to the head is also off target, and McLarnin finally fights back, scoring with a clean jab right before the bell. Great start for Baker, but he failed to follow up when McLarnin was most vulnerable, and that could come back to haunt him.

Second round, both men elect to stay outside. McLarnin feints, then rips a hook to the head that catches Baker off guard. After some clinching, McLarnin lands a glancing blow but can't follow up after connecting with a lead right. Back at ring center, he drills Baker with a left-right combination. McLarnin works over the head and body with his powerful right hand. Baker misses with a cross and is slow to respond to a McLarnin's aggressive thrusts. The bell sounds, strong round for McLarnin.

Round three, this time McLarnin tries to take charge on the inside. Baker is wild with a hook. McLarnin staggers his opponent with a huge hook to the head. He follows with a huge shot, and Baker drops to the canvas, taking a five-count. The fight continues, with McLarnin ripping a hook to the body but not much more in the way of following up. Baker has covered up and is warding off most of McLarnin's blow. Baker winds up the round against the ropes, staggered by a big McLarnin uppercut.

Fourth round, McLarnin is even more aggressive, looking to finish the bout early. Baker lands a right. McLarnin moves in behind a jab, pinning Baker against the ropes. Baker deftly escapes, scoring with a huge left in the process. He flicks a follow-up combination, McLarnin responds with a hook. Another flurry and then Baker goes down from another tremendous shot from McLarnin. He's back up at the count of four, covering up but taking another hook to the head. Baker is sporting a cut over the left eye as the round ends, another strong one for McLarnin.

Round five, the crowd is urging McLarnin on now. He pins Baker in a corner and cuts loose with a strong combination. Baker is tiring noticeably, and it doesn't look like he can withstand much more punishment from the fists of McLarnin. A short hook and a strong jab rock Baker back on his heels. He tries to take a breather by clinching. McLarnin is having none of it, landing to the chest and neck as Baker retreats. Baker is off target with all of his punches. McLarnin seizes an opening, landing a big cross, and the cut over Baker's eye is reopened. Baker is taking a beating now. An uppercut scores for McLarnin. Baker drops his hands, and the ref has seen enough.

McLarnin's hand is raised in victory, TKO winner at 2:43 of round five. The win lifts him to a perfect 15-0 (12 inside the distance). This is worth 665 PPs, enough for a tentative ranking at #18 in the WW ranking list.

Now that McLarnin has secured a spot in the top 20, this thread will continue following his career via the year-end reports, rather than the bout-by-bout approach that is reserved for top up and coming prospects.

[JCWeb]

June 19, 1926 -- Palais du Sports, Cannes, France: Unbeaten top HW prospect Max Schmeling is on the card here tonight, taking on Swede Sven Nordling in a scheduled 8-rounders. Schmeling enters the bout with a perfect 7-0 record, while Nordling is winless in his five prior bouts. Looks like a real mismatch on paper.

Round one, Schmeling starts cautiously, staying on the outside. A shot bounces harmlessly off the shoulder of Nordling. Then Schmeling uncorks a hook to the jaw of the Swede. Max retreats, looking for punching room, working to the head and body while Nordling stays right in front of him, an inviting target. Max shoots home the jab, then plods forward. Nordling offers little resistance, and the Black Uhlan nails him with a right cross right on the button. He works the chest and neck, then unleashes a powerful combination. Nordling drops to the canvas, then uses the ropes to help himself to his feet at the count of seven. The ref allows the bout to continue, although the Swede looks a bit shaky. Schmeling drills him with a tremendous left, and that is enough as the ref wraps his arms around an exhausted and vulnerable Nordling.

The bout is stopped with just three seconds left in the opening stanza, going down as a TKO-1 for Schmeling at 2:57 of the round.

The win lifts Max to 8-0 (7 by KO), worth 487 PPs. His handlers are continuting to bring him along carefully, next bout likely some time in September.

[Lee]

Great writeups JC, you have quite a handful of prospects you're tracking now.

[kenyan_cheena]

JC's uni is currently the longest running active thread in Inside the Ropes, which is a fantastic achievement.

[JCWeb]

Thanks, KC. Still running but things seem to be moving a bit slower due to the size of the Uni compared to earlier years. Here's the latest from one of the up and coming HW prospects.

July 31, 1926 -- Atlantic City, NJ: On tonight's card at the Convention Hall, local fan favorite Jimmy Braddock makes his second pro start in a scheduled 4-rounder versus TC Nick Flanagan, another Irish-American fighter.

Round one, Braddock slowly plods forward, relentlessly working his way inside. He trades blows with Flanagan, whom he traps in a neutral corner. Braddock fires a left that bounces harmlessly off Flanagan's shoulder. His hook is also off target, Flanagan lands to the chest and neck of Braddock. Braddock struggles with his timing, off target with a wild overhand right. The bell sounds after what most observers see as an essentially even round, which is a bit disappointing for Braddock's many fans.

Second round, more of the same as Braddock persists in working on the inside. Flanagan fires and misses. Braddock uncorks an uppercut. A follow-up uppercut misses. The two clinch. Braddock's jab is more of a push than a punch. Braddock works the head and body of his opponent. Flanagan sticks out a jab in response. More clutching and grabbing at ring center. Braddock gets his arms free, flings a jab that misses but connects with a follow-up cross. A late flurry for Braddock right before the bell, as Jimmy takes the round.

Round three, Braddock is looking for the KO this time. He lands a short uppercut and follows with a big left that is sidestepped by Flanagan. Braddock is wild with a hook. Flanagan scores with a short hook to the ribs. Braddock winces from that blow. Flanagan fires and misses. Braddock staggers Flanagan with a big uppercut, and he follows with another uppercut. Jimmy is able to hook off the jab, and a wobbly-legged Flanagan appears ready to go. But Braddock is unable to finish the job, allowing Flanagan to survive the round.

Fourth and final round. Braddock is content to stay outside. Flanagan is backed up against the ropes. Braddock lands a shot to the chest, Flanagan fires a return volley. Braddock sticks out a stinging jab. Flanagan misses. A straight right bounces harmlessly off his shoulder. Braddock then uncorks a cross that scores. Flanagan moves in close and is warned for head-butting. Braddock misses with a left and whiffs with a right. He follows with a two-fisted attack, scoring with an uppercut. Flanagan is off target, and Braddock shoots home a right just before the bell.

The judges' scorecards are tallied and, as expected, it's a UD 4 win for Braddock (40-36, 40-36, 40-37).

The win lifts Braddock to 2-0 (1), worth 281 PPs, but he will continue to be brought around slowly, his next bout not scheduled until November.

[JCWeb]

August 7, 1926-- Comiskey Park, Chicago: Young LW prospect Tony "The Roman Warrior" Canzoneri takes on TC Paul Franklin (0-2) in his fourth pro bout.

Round one, Canzoneri is content to pound away from the outside. He just misses with the jab. After some clinching, he shoots home a right and nails Franklin with a follow-up cross. Canzoneri's hook is just short, then The Roman Warrior moves in behing his jab. A solid combination is followed by more clinching. Canzoneri gets his hands free and blasts home a hook. He doubles up on the jab, landing a second. Right before the bell, he peppers Franklin with some shots to the head and body. First round is all Canzoneri.

Second round, Tony moves inside to take a more aggressive posture. He works to the head and body of Franklin. Canzoneri is off target with his jab, then misses with a follow-up left. A cross finds its target, then a short hook to the ribs causes Franklin to retreat. Canzoneri doubles on his left, meting out more punishment. He pins Franklin against the ropes but continues to struggle with his timing. Then Canzoneri appears to have hurt his hand. Franklin shows signs of puffiness around his right eye. Canzoneri connects with a jab right before the bell, continuing to dominate the action.

Third round, Canzoneri is looking to finish off his opponent. Canzoneri moves inside and rips a hook to the head. The Roman Warrior unleashes a flurry of blows. Franklin then walks into a hook and goes down. He arises at a count of two. Canzoneri fires a short hook inside Franklin's defenses. Canzoneri shoots home the right, but can't put away his opponent. Franklin remains standing despite a glancing overhand right to his jaw.

Fourth round, once again Canzoneri is looking for the knockout. Franklin tries to fight back, but he is way off target. Canzoneri counters with a hook that lands flush. A follow-up right forces Franklin to retreat. He is staggered by a sharp combination, and the swelling worsens. Canzoneri digs a hook to the body but misses the follow-up shot. Franklin is defenseless now, and Canzoneri administers the coup-de-grace with a hook to the head, followed by a big left. Franklin makes a second trip to the canvas, and this time he can't get up. He's counted out at 2:24 of round 4.

The KO win is Canzoneri's fourth in four pro bouts, worth a total of 354 PPs. The hand injury will take some time to heal, and he is not expected to fight again before November.

[JCWeb]

September 25, 1926 -- The Olympia, London, England: Highly regarded German HW prospect Max Schmeling returns to England in an 8-round prelim bout versus British TC Clive Dudley. Schmeling enters tonight's ring tilt as a heavy favorite, having won all eight of his prior contests (7 by KO) while Dudley has lost all eight of his prior encounters.

Round one, Dudley is backed into a neutral corner and it's bombs away for "The Black Uhlan." Schmeling doubles up on his jab, landing the second one. A nice short hook on the inside from Max inflicts more pain on his hapless opponent. Then Schmeling rips a hook to the body, followed by a quick jab. Some clinching, then a feint, followed by a hook to the head and Dudley appears to be ready to go. A stinging jab, more clinching, then Schmeling nails Dudley with a strong shot on the break. Dudley takes a quick trip to the canvas, arising at the count of three. A right cross from Schmeling, who administers the coup-de-grace with a short, clean hook. Dudley is down and out, unable to regain his feet. It's all over after just 2 minutes, 45 seconds. KO in the first for Schmeling.

The record lifts Schmeling to 9-0 (8 KOs), worth 503 PPs, his handlers expect to fight once more in late 1926, and expect to see Max ready to take on some name opponents in 1927.

Up and coming fighters like Schmeling, Jack Sharkey, Jimmy Braddock plus some young black HWs, notably George Godfrey and Larry Gains indicate that the HW division will be in good hands after the veterans like Dempsey, Tunney and Wills retire in the next couple of years.

[JCWeb]

November 7, 1926 -- Detroit's Briggs Stadium: Tony Canzoneri, unbeaten LW prospect goes for his 5th KO win in five bouts tonight against TC opponent Willie Niles, who enters with a perfect (winless) 0-4 record. Needless to say, it's just a question of how long Willie can last.

First round, Canzoneri seizes control, just off target as Niles drifts out of range. Then Tony sneaks in an uppercut to get Niles' attention. A nice combination for Canzoneri, and Niles is on the defensive. Canzoneri follows with another combination and a jab, then he swings and misses going for a big shot. A flurry of blows puts Niles in even more difficult, then Canzoneri connects with a cross. Niles already looks ready to go. Another uppercut scores for Canzoneri. Niles is off target with a return blow. Then Canzoneri works to the head and body. The ref has seen enough, and he steps in to call a halt with just three seconds left in round one. Not much protest from Niles' corner, as he was clearly overmatched in this bout.

Tony Canzoneri will step up to Pre-Prime for his next bout, scheduled for some time in December 1926. He is off to a very promising 5-0 (5) career start, PP total of 383.