Steve Mamakos

Steve Mamakos, affectionately known as the "Golden Greek," was a middleweight boxer from Washington, D.C., born on July 27, 1917. His career spanned nearly a decade, from November 1937 to October 1947. Mamakos' amateur background is not extensively documented, but his professional career was marked by a promising start and a series of notable bouts against top-tier opponents.

Mamakos made his professional debut on November 1, 1937, in a bout at Turner's Arena, Washington, against Alf Baker, who Mamkos knocked out in the first round. Although. Mamakos faced several world-class fighters throughout his career, including back-to-back clashes with Tony Zale, the world middleweight champion. Their first fight was on January 10, 1941, at Chicago Stadium and ended in a 10-round majority decision in Zale's favour. Even though Mamakos was knocked down in the 4th and 9th rounds, the decision was split, and a rematch was demanded.

Just over a month later, the pair clashed again at Chicago Stadium. Once again, Mamkos gave an excellent account of himself, flooring Zale in the Fifth and ahead on the cards going into the 13th round. However, Zale showed his championship heart, flooring his challenger twice. Coming out for the 14th, Mamakos had not recovered fully, and Zale closed the show with just 26 seconds on the clock.

Mamakos also faced Tami Mauriello, Georgie Abrams, and Ezzard Charles, and his 50-fight career ended with 29 wins, 10 by way of knockout, 20 losses, and 1 draw.

After retiring from boxing, Mamakos lived a long life, passing away on July 26, 2006, just a day shy of his 89th birthday. He is still remembered in his hometown of Washington, D.C. The "Golden Greek" remains a cherished figure in local boxing lore.