74 years ago
Ezzard Charles vs Freddie Beshore
Date: 15th August 1950
Venue: Memorial Auditorium, Buffalo, New York
Title: National Boxing Association World Heavyweight Title
Promoter: Dewey Michaels
Tv:
Ezzard Charles
(
65
-
5
-
1
)
Weight: 183¼ lbs
Freddie Beshore
(
28
-
8
-
1
)
Weight: 184½ lbs
On August 15, 1950, Ezzard Charles entered the ring at Memorial Auditorium in Buffalo, New York, for his third National Boxing Association Heavyweight Title defence. Facing him was Freddie Beshore, ranked as The Ring Magazine's No. 9 heavyweight contender.
Despite the high stakes, the bout was overshadowed by controversy and a less-than-expected turnout, but it ultimately showcased Charles' dominance and resilience as a champion.
The road to this fight was fraught with setbacks. Initially scheduled for February 28 after a contract was signed on January 27, the bout was postponed due to a rib injury Charles suffered, later discovered to have bruised a heart muscle. This injury led to an indefinite postponement after the March 29 rescheduled date, casting uncertainty over the fight. Despite these hurdles, both fighters eventually met in the ring, with Charles entering as a 3 to 1 betting favourite to win by knockout.
The fight itself demonstrated Charles' technical skill and strategic prowess. Over 14 rounds, there were no knockdowns, a testament to the defensive abilities of both fighters. However, Charles managed to dominate the scoring, with referee Barney Felix and judges Anse Carroll and Leo Stachowiak significantly favouring him on their scorecards.
The bout's conclusion, however, was marred by controversy. At 2:53 of the 14th round, Referee Barney Felix called a halt to the contest, citing the dangerous condition of Beshore's swollen right ear. The injury was so severe that United Press described it as resembling "a huge purplish bulb" attached to Beshore's head. This decision led to boos from the crowd, who were dissatisfied with the stoppage, viewing it as premature despite the apparent risk to Beshore's health.
The audience's reaction was reflective of the broader context of the fight. With a paid attendance of only 6,298 and a gate of $28,666, the event recorded the lowest figures for a heavyweight title fight since Jack Dempsey won the crown 31 years prior. This lacklustre turnout and the contentious ending to the fight did little to diminish the quality of Charles' performance. Instead, they highlighted the challenges and unpredictability inherent in boxing.
Charles' victory over Beshore, under such unusual and challenging circumstances, underscored his physical and mental resilience as he navigated the delays and heightened expectations of being a champion. Even in the face of controversy, his ability to maintain focus and deliver a winning performance is a testament to his legacy as one of boxing's greats.
This bout, while not remembered for its fanfare or spectacle, remains a significant chapter in the storied career of Ezzard Charles. It exemplifies the trials champions must endure, not only from their opponents but from the circumstances surrounding their battles.