Jimmy Carter (boxer) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jimmy Carter |
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| Statistics | |
| Real name | James Walter Carter |
| Rated at | Lightweight |
| Height | 5 ft 6 in |
| Reach | 68 in |
| Nationality | American |
| Born | December 15, 1923 Aiken, South Carolina, U.S. |
| Died | September 21, 1994 (aged 70) |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Boxing record | |
| Total fights | 125 |
| Wins | 85 |
| Wins by KO | 34 |
| Losses | 31 |
| Draws | 9 |
James Walter Carter (born December 15, 1923, in Aiken, South Carolina – died September 21, 1994) was an American professional boxer. He became the World Lightweight Champion three times between 1951 and 1955. People remember him for his exciting fights, especially two that were named "Upset of the Year" by Ring Magazine. He was so important in boxing that he was added to the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2000.
Contents
Early Life and Boxing Start
James Walter Carter was born in Aiken, South Carolina. When he was nine, his family moved to New York City. Growing up in Harlem, he learned to defend himself with his fists. Later, he got proper training at a Catholic Boys Club. He started his amateur boxing career at just 14 years old. Jimmy Carter turned professional in 1946 in New York. He quickly showed his talent, winning 22 of his first 26 fights.
Becoming a World Champion
Jimmy Carter was known for his powerful punches and determination. He fought many exciting matches throughout his career.
First Lightweight Title Win: 1951
On May 25, 1951, Jimmy Carter faced the champion, Ike Williams, at Madison Square Garden. Not many people expected Carter to win, making his victory a big surprise! Carter knocked Williams down several times during the fight. The referee stopped the match in the 14th round, giving Carter the win and his first World Lightweight Championship.
He defended his title against Art Aragon in November 1951. Carter won easily, showing he was a true champion. However, he lost his title in May 1952 to Lauro Salas in a very close fight. Many boxing experts thought Carter should have won, making it a controversial decision.
Winning the Title Again: 1952 and 1954
Jimmy Carter didn't give up. Just a few months later, on October 15, 1952, he fought Lauro Salas again. This time, Carter won clearly, taking back his World Lightweight Championship! He successfully defended his title against tough opponents like Tommy Collins and George Araujo.
But in March 1954, he lost his title for a second time to Paddy DeMarco. This was another big upset, as DeMarco was not expected to win.
Third and Final Title Reign: 1954
True to his fighting spirit, Jimmy Carter wanted his title back. On November 17, 1954, he had a rematch with Paddy DeMarco. Carter won the fight in the 15th round, becoming the World Lightweight Champion for the third time!
He held the title until June 29, 1955, when he lost to Wallace "Bud" Smith. It was a very close fight, and both boxers were injured. This was the last time Jimmy Carter held the world title.
Later Life
Jimmy Carter continued to box for a few more years after losing his title. He passed away on September 21, 1994, at the age of 70. His amazing career, with three world lightweight championships, earned him a spot in the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
Achievements
- World Lightweight Champion (First time): May 25, 1951 – May 14, 1952 (defeated Ike Williams, lost to Lauro Salas)
- World Lightweight Champion (Second time): October 15, 1952 – March 5, 1954 (defeated Lauro Salas, lost to Paddy DeMarco)
- World Lightweight Champion (Third time): November 17, 1954 – June 29, 1955 (defeated Paddy DeMarco, lost to Wallace "Bud" Smith)
See also
- Lineal championship
- List of lightweight boxing champions
