86 years ago

Date: 31st May 1938

Venue: Madison Square Garden Bowl, Long Island City, New York

Title: World Welterweight Title

Promoter: Mike Jacobs

Barney Ross
( 74 - 3 - 3 )
Weight: 142 lbs

Henry Armstrong
( 87 - 11 - 7 )
Weight: 133½ lbs

On May 31, 1938, the Madison Square Garden Bowl in Long Island City, New York, became the stage for a monumental welterweight title bout. This historic event, promoted by the renowned Mike Jacobs, saw the clash of two boxing legends: the reigning champion, Barney Ross, and the relentless challenger, Henry Armstrong. This fight, with its high stakes and intense competition, would go on to shape the course of boxing history.

Barney Ross, born Dov-Ber Rasofsky, was more than a boxer. He symbolized the Jewish community's resilience and pride, a beacon of hope in a time of personal tragedies and the hardships of the Great Depression. Ross found solace and strength in the ring, under the tutelage of legendary trainers Packy McFarland and Ray Arcel, he honed his skills, becoming a master of ring general-ship and defence.

Entering the fight with an impressive record of 74 wins, 3 losses, and 3 draws, Ross had already cemented his status as a three-division world champion. His indomitable spirit and ability to withstand punishment made him a formidable opponent for any challenger.

Henry Armstrong, on the other hand, was a rising star in the boxing world. With a record of 87 wins, 11 losses, and 7 draws, the "Hurricane" was known for his relentless attacking style and seemingly endless stamina. Armstrong's quest for greatness eventually made him the first and only boxer to hold titles in three weight classes simultaneously.

As the fighters entered the ring, the stark contrast in their physical attributes was evident. Ross, weighing in at 142 pounds, towered over the 133½-pound Armstrong. This significant size advantage was expected to play a crucial role in the fight. However, the challenger's speed and aggressiveness would prove to be a formidable challenge for the defending champion.

The early rounds saw Ross employing his boxing skills, using his jab effectively and evading Armstrong's attacks. However, as the fight progressed, Armstrong's constant pressure began to take its toll. By the seventh round, Ross's right eye was swollen shut and bleeding from his nose and mouth.

Despite the mounting damage, Ross refused to quit. His cornermen pleaded with him to allow them to stop the fight, but the proud champion shook his head in defiance. Ross's unwavering courage and determination were a testament to his character and hopes for his people.

Armstrong, known as "Homicide Hank," continued his onslaught, pounding Ross from corner to corner. The challenger's stamina and power were on full display as he relentlessly pursued the fading champion. Ringsiders clamoured for the fight to be stopped, but Ross's indomitable spirit kept him on his feet.

Ultimately, Henry Armstrong emerged victorious, winning the world welterweight title by a unanimous decision. The victory marked Armstrong's second world title, and he would make history by capturing the lightweight crown, becoming the first boxer to hold three titles simultaneously.

While Henry Armstrong's victory was a remarkable feat, it was Barney Ross's performance that truly inspired. Ross, standing tall in the face of overwhelming odds and a brutal beating, became a symbol of courage and resilience. His refusal to surrender resonated deeply with the Jewish community, who saw in him a hero who embodied their hopes and dreams.

The Armstrong-Ross fight was more than just a boxing match; it was a battle of wills, a clash of legends, and a testament to the human spirit. Both men left an indelible mark on the sport, their legacies forever intertwined in the annals of boxing history.