Davey Day, born David Daitch, on October 1, 1912, in Chicago, Illinois, where he would become one of the last great Jewish fighters to emerge from the city. Known by the moniker "Human String Bean," Day carved out a formidable reputation in the boxing world during the 1930s and early 1940s. Standing 5ft 9 inches tall, he was a notable figure in both the lightweight and welterweight divisions.

Day's boxing journey began in Des Moines, Iowa, where he attended North Des Moines High School and first stepped into the ring. His early career in the 1930s saw him winning the majority of his fights, establishing himself as a rising star. However, 1937 brought significant challenges when he lost to lightweight champion Lou Ambers in a non-title fight and dropped a ten-round decision to contender Al Roth, who would fight for the title that same year.

By 1939, Day had solidified his status as a top contender. This led to a much-anticipated title shot against Henry Armstrong, the reigning world welterweight and lightweight champion, widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers in history. On March 31, 1939, the two fighters clashed at Madison Square Garden for the welterweight title. Armstrong, displaying his characteristic relentless aggression, knocked Day out in the 12th round. Despite this setback, Day remained a significant force in the lightweight division.

In October 1939, Day faced Hall of Famer Sammy Angott and suffered a loss. However, in a rematch two months later, Day emerged victorious after a gruelling 12-round fight. Their rivalry culminated in May 1940 when they fought for the vacant NBA lightweight championship. This time, Angott won a 15-round decision, denying Day the championship title he sought. Day's career continued for a few more years, but he never got another title shot. He retired after being knocked out by future champion Bob Montgomery in the first round on October 10, 1941.

One of Day's most memorable victories came on May 23, 1939, when he knocked out Pedro Montanez, the top-ranked welterweight contender, at Madison Square Garden. Despite this impressive win, Armstrong chose to fight Montanez instead of giving Day a rematch.

Davey Day was known throughout his career for his resilience and tenacity in the ring. His final professional record stood at 61 wins, 9 losses, and 4 draws, from 1931 to 1941. Outside the ring, Day's life ended after a battle with liver cancer. He passed away on October 2, 1990, in his suburban Oak Lawn home, leaving behind a legacy as one of Chicago's notable Jewish boxers.