Billy Graham (boxer)
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- This article is about the Welterweight boxing champion of the world. For the winner of four New Zealand titles at light welterweight, see Billy Graham (NZ boxer). For the former amateur and professional English boxer, Billy Graham (boxing trainer).
William "Billy" Walter Graham Jr. (born September 9, 1922 in New York, NY – died January 22, 1992) was Welterweight boxing champion of the world.
[edit] Professional boxing career
Graham turned pro in the 1941 and took on National Boxing Association World Welterweight Title holder Kid Gavilan in 1951 and lost a close decision. The following year he rematched Gavilan for the World Welterweight Title but again lost a decision. In 1953 he took on Carmen Basilio for the New York State Welterweight Title but lost a decision. In a rematch later in the year Graham and Basilio fought to a draw. He retired in 1955 after never having captured a world title.
- Graham had the remarkable distinction of never being knocked off his feet in his long career.
- Career Record: Won 102 (KOs 27) Lost 15 Drawn 9 Total 126 Fights
- Graham was elected into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 1987.
