The REAL Rocky - Marciano 1923-1969 World Heavyweight Champ

ROCCO FRANCIS MARCHEGIANO, better known as ROCKY MARCIANO (September 1, 1923 - August 31, 1969), American boxer, b. Brockton, Mass. Failing to become a professional baseball player, Marciano turned to boxing and won 27 of 30 amateur bouts before he turned professional in 1947. On his climb to the heavyweight title, Marciano became the second boxer ever to knock out (1951) Joe Louis. On Sept. 23, 1952, Marciano won the title by knocking out Jersey Joe Walcott in 13 rounds at Philadelphia. The only heavyweight champion with a perfect professional record, Marciano was undefeated in 49 fights and successfully defended his title six times before retiring in Apr., 1956. Noted for his powerful punching ability, he won 43 of his pro bouts by knockouts. He is considered to be one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. The title of the United Artist 1976 movie 'Rocky' was inspired by this fighter. He died in a plane crash. PICTURED: 1950's ROCKY Trainer Charley Goldman and champ Rocky Marciano in an undated photo. (Photo by Sporting News via Getty Images/Sporting News via Getty Images via Getty Images)
ROCCO FRANCIS MARCHEGIANO, better known as ROCKY MARCIANO (September 1, 1923 - August 31, 1969), American boxer, b. Brockton, Mass. Failing to become a professional baseball player, Marciano turned to boxing and won 27 of 30 amateur bouts before he turned professional in 1947. On his climb to the heavyweight title, Marciano became the second boxer ever to knock out (1951) Joe Louis. On Sept. 23, 1952, Marciano won the title by knocking out Jersey Joe Walcott in 13 rounds at Philadelphia. The only heavyweight champion with a perfect professional record, Marciano was undefeated in 49 fights and successfully defended his title six times before retiring in Apr., 1956. Noted for his powerful punching ability, he won 43 of his pro bouts by knockouts. He is considered to be one of the greatest heavyweights of all time. The title of the United Artist 1976 movie 'Rocky' was inspired by this fighter. He died in a plane crash. PICTURED: 1950's ROCKY Trainer Charley Goldman and champ Rocky Marciano in an undated photo. (Photo by Sporting News via Getty Images/Sporting News via Getty Images via Getty Images)
The REAL Rocky  - Marciano 1923-1969  World Heavyweight Champ
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Credit:
Sporting News Archive / Contributor
Editorial #:
110333263
Collection:
Sporting News
Date created:
January 01, 1956
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Source:
Sporting News
Object name:
20050228_ros_ts1_457.jpg