Tommy Bell (boxer) facts for kids
Tommy Bell (born March 13, 1923 – died July 14, 1994) was an African-American boxer. He was known for his exciting fights against famous boxers like Jake LaMotta and Sugar Ray Robinson. Bell even fought for the welterweight championship title in 1946.
Early Life
Tommy Bell was born in Ogelthorpe, Georgia. When he was a child, his family moved to Youngstown, Ohio. Youngstown was a busy city known for making steel. Tommy went to Scienceville High School there. After high school, he started his boxing journey as an amateur.
Boxing Achievements
Tommy Bell had a great start in boxing. As an amateur, he won 22 fights and only lost three. In 1942, he became the Ohio AAU Welterweight Champion.
When he became a professional boxer, Bell fought in 82 matches and won 59 of them. He had an amazing winning streak of 34 fights in a row! Once, in just five days, he knocked out five different opponents.
One of his most famous fights was against the legendary Sugar Ray Robinson. This was for the welterweight title on December 20, 1946. Even though Bell lost this 15-round match, it showed how talented he was.
Later Years and Legacy
Tommy Bell stopped boxing in 1951. He then moved back to Youngstown, Ohio. He continued to be involved in boxing by coaching and training other fighters. In 1985, he was honored for his contributions to the sport. He was inducted into the Curbstone Coaches Hall of Fame in his community.
