Kid Gavilan

Biography

Kid Gavilan, born Gerardo González on January 6, 1926, in Camaguey, Cuba, and famously known as "The Cuban Hawk," carved a niche for himself in the annals of boxing as one of the sport's most talented welterweights. His career, which spanned 15 years, showcased his distinctive style, marked by the innovative "bolo punch" and his remarkable ring intelligence.

Gavilan's foray into professional boxing began in Havana at the Arena Cristal on June 5, 1943, when he won a points decision over Antonio Diaz in a six-round bout. This victory was the first step in a storied career that saw him engage in numerous high-profile fights across the globe. He ultimately concluded his professional journey on June 18, 1958, against Yama Bahama in Miami Beach, where he lost by unanimous decision over ten rounds.

Gavilan frequently competed against top-notch fighters during his career, leaving a lasting legacy through his performances. A significant highlight was his bout against the legendary Ray Robinson on July 11, 1949, in Philadelphia for the World Welterweight Title. Though Gavilan lost by unanimous decision, this fight was crucial in elevating his profile.

Gavilan achieved a career-defining moment on May 18, 1951, when he captured the NBA World Welterweight Title by defeating Johnny Bratton via unanimous decision at Madison Square Garden. He successfully defended this title against formidable opponents such as Billy Graham and Bobby Dykes, securing his reputation as a world champion.

One of his most memorable defences came on July 7, 1952, in Philadelphia against Gil Turner, where Gavilan won by TKO in the eleventh round. His skillset continued to be displayed through multiple title defences, including victories over Chuck Davey and Carmen Basilio and a rematch win against Johnny Bratton.

Despite his success at welterweight, Gavilan ventured into the middleweight division, challenging Bobo Olson for the World Middleweight Title on April 2, 1954, in Chicago. He fought valiantly but lost by a majority decision. His last title challenge came against Johnny Saxton on October 20, 1954, where he lost his welterweight crown via a unanimous decision in Philadelphia.

Kid Gavilan's professional record at the end of his career was impressive: 108 wins, 30 losses, and 5 draws. Beyond his record, Gavilan's influence extended beyond the ring, impacting the sport with his charisma and technical skills.

After his death from a heart attack in 2003, Gavilan was buried in a pauper's grave in Our Lady of Mercy Cemetery in Miami, Florida. In 2005, The Ring 8 Veterans Association and a group that included Angelo Dundee, Roberto Duran, Emile Griffith, Ray Mancini, James (Buddy) McGirt, Leon Spinks, and Mike Tyson paid to have Gavilan's body exhumed and moved to another section of the cemetery and have a memorial headstone erected to honour his contributions to boxing.