Recently, the passing of former two-division world champion Nino Benvenuti has sparked reflection on boxing's storied history. With this in mind, we explore the lives and accomplishments of the ten oldest living former world champions. This article highlights their journeys, achievements, and contributions to the sport.
Elder Statesmen of the Ring: Pioneering Champions
These legendary fighters have left indelible marks on the boxing world. Each competitor brought unique qualities to the ring, from overcoming early setbacks to achieving greatness against formidable opponents. Their perseverance and skill exemplify the essence of boxing as a sport of resilience and determination.
Freddie Little, born in 1936, emerged victorious after more than a decade of professional experience. His journey culminated in a unanimous decision win over Stanley Hayward for the WBA/WBC junior middleweight titles in 1969. Despite losing his crown to Carmelo Bossi shortly afterward, Little remains celebrated for his two successful defenses. Similarly, Paul Takeshi Fujii, hailing from Hawaii, triumphed by knocking out Sandro Lopopolo to claim The Ring/WBA and WBC titles. Although his reign was brief, Fujii's legacy endures through his remarkable knockout victory and subsequent career highlights. Roberto Cruz, beginning at just 13 years old, became a WBA titleholder but faced challenges maintaining his championship status. Bruno Arcari, an Olympic representative, showcased mastery with nine successful title defenses before vacating his position to pursue welterweight aspirations.
Champions Who Shaped Modern Boxing
The latter half of our list showcases champions whose impact extends beyond individual victories. These athletes navigated complex careers marked by both triumphs and setbacks, ultimately contributing to boxing's evolution. Their stories inspire current generations of boxers striving for greatness.
Billy Backus, nephew of Carmen Basilio, demonstrated grit despite an inconsistent start. After defeating Jose Napoles in 1970, he secured the Ring/WBA and WBC welterweight championships, only to lose them soon after in a rematch. Jose Legra, transitioning from Cuba to Spain following Castro's professional boxing ban, excelled internationally. Winning the European featherweight title and becoming a two-time WBC champion, Legra's career spanned numerous memorable battles. Masahiko 'Fighting' Harada's dual-title reign included overcoming Eder Jofre twice, cementing his place among boxing greats. Koichi Wajima's late entry into professional boxing didn't hinder his success; he claimed and reclaimed multiple belts throughout his illustrious career. Ismael Laguna's lightweight dominance featured victories over Carlos Ortiz, while Rene Barrientos capitalized on opportunities provided by legends like Flash Elorde and Ruben Navarro. Collectively, these champions reflect boxing's rich tapestry of talent and dedication.