85 years ago

Date: 25th May 1939

Title: World Welterweight Title

Promoter: Johnny Best

Henry Armstrong
( 95 - 11 - 7 )
Weight: 135 lbs

Ernie Roderick
( 78 - 12 - 3 )
Weight: 145¾ lbs

On May 25, 1939, the Harringay Arena in London was the site of a historic boxing match between Henry Armstrong and Ernie Roderick for the World Welterweight Title. Armstrong, weighing in at 135 lbs, faced the formidable Roderick, who came in at 146 lbs. Wilfred Smith was the sole judge and referee for this bout, tasked with overseeing what would become an unforgettable clash.

Henry Armstrong, a boxing legend from Mississippi, had an illustrious career that saw him win world titles in three weight classes: featherweight, lightweight, and welterweight. This was a remarkable achievement in the 1930s, an era when such feats were rare. Armstrong's aggressive fighting style and relentless pace earned him the nickname "Hurricane Henry." By the time he faced Roderick, Armstrong had already defended his welterweight title six times within a year of defeating Barney Ross to claim it.

Ernie Roderick, the British welterweight champion, was one of Liverpool's finest fighters, alongside Nel Tarleton and Ginger Foran. Roderick had earned his title by knocking out Jake Kilrain in seven rounds earlier in the year. His career, marked by almost 100 professional contests over eight years, was a testament to his resilience and skill. Roderick's victory over Kilrain set up the much-anticipated match against Armstrong, arranged by promoter Johnny Best.

As the fight commenced, Armstrong's experience and skill were evident. He had trained rigorously at Clacton-on-Sea, sparring with future world featherweight champion Chalky Wright and Irishman Marvin Hart. Armstrong's training regimen was intense and designed to keep him in peak condition. On the other hand, Roderick prepared at the Swan Inn in Aughton, relying on his lucky camp to prepare himself for the challenge.

The bout itself was a display of high-calibre boxing. Armstrong, known for his powerful and relentless style, found a worthy opponent in Roderick, whose fighting spirit and determination were on display. Armstrong's dominance was clear despite being marked about the face by the end of the contest. Though ultimately outclassed, Roderick fought bravely, earning Armstrong's and spectators' respect.

Throughout the fifteen rounds, Armstrong maintained control, landing significant blows, while Roderick showed incredible grit and resilience. The British champion's performance was lauded for his unyielding spirit and bravery. According to reports, Roderick was "simply splendid" and displayed magnificent courage, even in defeat.

After fifteen hard-fought rounds, Armstrong emerged victorious by a points decision, retaining his world welterweight title. He praised Roderick, acknowledging him as one of the best fighters he had ever faced and noting that Roderick would do well anywhere in the world. This fight solidified Armstrong's status as one of the greatest boxers ever to compete in a British ring. Roderick's performance only enhanced his reputation as a gallant and skilled fighter.