Harry Greb
- Nickname: Pittsburgh Windmill
- Date of Birth: 6th June 1894
- Died: 22nd October 1926 (32 years old)
- Career length: 13 years 3 months
- Status: Deceased
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Nationality:
USA -
Birthplace:
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
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Residence:
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
- Division: Middleweight
- Reach: 70.9"
- Height: 5ft 8"
- Stance: Orthodox
- BoxRec: Harry Greb
- Debut: 8th May 1913
Biography
Harry Greb, known as the "Pittsburgh Windmill," was born on June 6, 1894, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He was 5 feet 8 inches tall with a 70.9-inch reach and fought in the middleweight division. Greb's relentless fighting style and exceptional stamina made him a formidable opponent in the ring.
Greb began his professional boxing career on May 8, 1913, debuting against Red Cumpston. The bout took place in Pittsburgh, where Greb secured a victory by knockout in the second round. This early win set the tone for a career characterized by an aggressive and unyielding approach.
Throughout his 13-year career, Greb faced numerous world-class fighters, often competing against opponents in higher-weight classes. Notably, he fought and defeated light heavyweight champion Battling Levinsky, securing the American light heavyweight title in 1922. Greb's most significant achievement came on August 31, 1923, when he won the World Middleweight Championship by defeating Johnny Wilson. He successfully defended this title multiple times, including a notable victory against Mickey Walker on July 2, 1925, at the Polo Grounds in New York City.
One of Greb's most famous rivalries was with Gene Tunney, a future heavyweight champion. Greb handed Tunney his only professional loss on May 23, 1922, in a bout at Madison Square Garden, showcasing his ability to compete against larger, highly skilled opponents. Their series of fights remains a significant part of boxing history.
Greb's final professional fight occurred on August 19, 1926, against Tiger Flowers at Madison Square Garden in New York City. In this bout, Greb lost his World Middleweight title to Flowers by decision after 15 rounds. This fight marked the end of an era for one of boxing's most relentless competitors.
Tragically, Harry Greb passed away on October 22, 1926, at the age of 32, due to complications following surgery. His legacy endures as one of the most prolific and fearless fighters in boxing history, with over 200 victories and numerous battles against some of the sport's greatest names.