Al Manfredo

Al Manfredo, born Alfred Manfredo on January 22, 1912, in Fresno, California, was a welterweight boxer who left an indelible mark on the sport during the 1930s. With a nearly decade-long career, Manfredo fought some of the greatest boxers of his era, including the legendary Henry Armstrong.

Manfredo's boxing roots ran deep, with his cousin being none other than Young Corbett III, a former welterweight champion. His uncle, Frank Manfredo, was also involved in the sport as a referee in Fresno. Al Manfredo, with his unique blend of agility and power, made his professional debut on July 4, 1930, and quickly established himself as a formidable force in the welterweight division. Manfredo amassed 74 wins, 23 losses, and 8 draws throughout his career. He was known for his toughness and durability in the ring, often going the distance against top-level opposition.

During the peak of his career, from 1935 to 1937, Manfredo was managed by Ralph Manfredo and Suey Welch. This managerial team guided him through some of his most significant bouts, including his two fights against Henry Armstrong.

Al Manfredo's most notable fights were his two encounters with the legendary Henry Armstrong, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time. Their first meeting, a clash of titans, took place on December 5, 1938, at the Arena in Cleveland, Ohio, with Armstrong's world welterweight title on the line. Despite giving away nearly a stone in weight, Armstrong proved to be too much for Manfredo. The smaller man's speed, accuracy, and relentless pressure overwhelmed Manfredo, who was eventually stopped by referee Tony LaBranch at 1:45 of the third round.

Their second fight, which took place on October 9, 1939, at Riverview Park in Des Moines, Iowa, was advertised as a non-title bout. However, it was later argued that it should have been considered a world title fight, as both fighters prepared for it as such. Once again, Armstrong emerged victorious, cementing his status as one of the best boxers of his generation.

After retiring from the ring in 1940, Al Manfredo, a true ambassador of the sport, remained involved in boxing as a manager. He handled the careers of several fighters, including former foes Sheik Rangel and Abel Lucero. This selfless act allowed him to pass on his knowledge and experience to the next generation of boxers, leaving an enduring mark on the sport he loved.

Manfredo's contributions to boxing were not limited to his career and those he managed. His fights against Henry Armstrong, particularly their first encounter in Cleveland, are still remembered as classic examples of the welterweight division's golden era.

Al Manfredo's legacy in the sport of boxing extends beyond his own accomplishments in the ring. As a fighter who faced some of the best boxers of his time, he played a significant role in shaping the welterweight division during the 1930s. Manfredo's toughness, durability, and never-say-die attitude earned him the respect of his peers and fans. Though losses, his two fights against Henry Armstrong showcased his willingness to take on the best and leave everything in the ring.

After retiring from boxing, Manfredo's continued involvement as a manager demonstrated his deep passion for boxing and desire to contribute to its growth and development. Al Manfredo passed away on January 16, 1990, in Morro Bay, California, at 77. His legacy as a boxer and his contributions to the sport will always be remembered by those who knew him and the fans who admired his career.