Harry Matthews (boxer)
Harry Matthews (December 9, 1922 – February 21, 2003) nicknamed Kid Matthews was an American Professional boxer who competed from 1937 to 1956. He climbed to a top contender ranks and scored 90 victories, lost 7 times, drew 5 times and 1 no contest. His most impressive wins were over former champions Al Hostak, Bob Murphy and Ezzard Charles. He lost to Rocky Marciano in 1952, who went on to becoming World Champion less than two months after their fight. There were plans to cut weight and fight Sugar Ray Robinson but the fight didn't happen.[1]
Background
Born in Emmett, Idaho and moved to Seattle where he started working out and training. He fought and managed to beat Eddie Booker and former champion Al Hostak before being recruited into the American Army for World War 2. After returning from the war he went on a long winning streak, including beating Irish Bob Murphy. Matthews and his manager wanted the heavyweight division title, but there were also plans of a potential fight with Sugar Ray Robinson. The fight however didn't happen. After beating Freddie Beshore, Danny Nardico and Rex Layne he ended up in a fight against top contender and future world champion Rocky Marciano. Both men had impressive winning streaks, Marciano was unbeaten and had a high knockout percentage and Matthews had no losses since he returned from the war. Rocky Marciano won by knockout with a vicious double left hook. Matthews scored wins over Ted Lowry, Harley Breshears and Ezzard Charles, but lost to Don Cockell. Later in life, Harry Matthews was also a trainer of professional boxer Ibar Arrington. He died on February 21, 2003 in Seattle at the age 80.