82 years ago

Date: 20th November 1942

Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, USA

Title: NYSAC World Featherweight Title

Promoter: Mike Jacobs

Tv:

Chalky Wright
( 143 - 33 - 17 )
Weight: 125¾ lbs

Willie Pep
( 53 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 125½ lbs

On November 20, 1942, at Madison Square Garden in New York City, Willie Pep, a rising star in the featherweight division, faced off against the reigning NYSAC World Featherweight Champion, Chalky Wright. Pep, who entered the fight with an undefeated record of 53-0, was a 2-1 favourite against the seasoned champion, Wright, who boasted a record of 143-33-17.

In front of a crowd of 19,521 fans, generating a gate of $71,686.70, Pep put on a masterful performance, utilising his lightning-quick left jab to control the fight from the outset. The Associated Press reported that Pep's jab "appeared to have a permanent parking place in Chalky's face," as he consistently outmanoeuvred the champion, piling up a substantial lead in the early rounds.

As the fight progressed, Wright, the ageing California native, attempted to chase down the elusive Pep, but the challenger's superior speed and footwork kept him out of harm's way. Pep's defensive prowess and ring generalship were fully displayed as he frustrated Wright's attempts to mount a sustained offensive.

The judges' scorecards reflected Pep's dominance, with referee Arthur Donovan scoring the bout 10-4 and judges Joe Agnello and Bill Healy both seeing it 11-4, all in favour of the challenger. The Associated Press scored the fight 9-6 for Pep, while the United Press had it 10-4-1, further underscoring the young phenom's superior performance.

Leading up to the title fight, Pep had already notched impressive victories over former world champion Joey Archibald and New England Featherweight champion Ade Denner. In the five months between his win over Denner and his meeting with Wright, Pep fought an astonishing nine times, showcasing his incredible activity and drive to secure a world title shot.

For Wright, the loss marked the end of his reign as NYSAC World Featherweight Champion, a title he had held since September 1941 when he defeated Joey Archibald. Wright had successfully defended his title twice before facing Pep, stopping Harry Jaffra in the 10th round and edging out Lulu Costantino by split decision.

Following the defeat, Wright embarked on an impressive 19-1-1 run over the next two years, earning another chance at regaining his title from Pep. However, in their September 1944 rematch, Pep once again emerged victorious, this time by a split decision.

Willie Pep's victory over Chalky Wright began a remarkable championship reign that would solidify his status as one of the greatest featherweights in boxing history. His undefeated record, exceptional skill, speed, and defensive acumen made him a fan favourite and a true legend of the sport.

The Pep-Wright clash of 1942 is a testament to the depth of talent and the fierce competition that defined the featherweight division during this golden era of boxing. It was a night that saw the torch passing from one grand champion to another as Willie Pep ascended to the throne of the featherweight kingdom.