Gus Lesnevich

Gustav George Lesnevich (February 22, 1915 – February 28, 1964) was an American boxer who held the World Light Heavyweight Championship.

Gus Lesnevich
Statistics
Weight(s)Light heavyweight
Height5 ft 9 in (1.75 m)
ReachGustav George Lesnevich
Nationality American
Born(1915-02-22)February 22, 1915
Cliffside Park, New Jersey
DiedFebruary 28, 1964(1964-02-28) (aged 49)
StanceOrthodox
Boxing record
Total fights80
Wins61
Wins by KO23
Losses14
Draws5

Boxing career

Lesnevich was born and raised in Cliffside Park, New Jersey.[1]

Lesnevich turned pro in 1934 and in 1939 took on World Light Heavyweight champion Billy Conn, but lost a decision. In 1941 he took on Anton Christoforidis, winning the NBA light heavyweight title by decision. Later that year he defended the title twice against Tami Mauriello, winning both decisions to become the undisputed light heavyweight champion.[2] In 1948 he lost a decision to Freddie Mills along with his title recognition. In 1949 he took on Ezzard Charles, but was TKO'd in the 7th, and retired after the bout.

In addition to his various accolades, Lesnevich was named Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year in 1947.

Lesnevich served in the United States Coast Guard from 1943 to 1945.

See also
  • List of light heavyweight boxing champions

References
  1. via Associated Press. "Billy Conn Punches Out Decision Over Lesnevich: Pittsburgh Fighter Successfully Defends Light-heavyweight Title Through Superior Boxing Ability Before Small Crowd at Detroit", Hartford Courant, June 6, 1940. Accessed March 22, 2011. "Billy Conn, the smiling, dancing Irishman from Pittsburgh, successfully defended his world's light heavyweight boxing championship tonight by beating out a close 15-round decision over Gus Lesnevich, plodding challenger from Cliffside Park..."
  2. "Gus Lesnevich - The Cyber Boxing Zone Encyclopedia". Cyber Boxing Zone.
Achievements
Preceded by
Anton Christoforidis		 NBA Light Heavyweight Champion
May 22, 1941– July 26, 1948		 Succeeded by
Freddie Mills
Preceded by
Billy Conn
Vacated		 NYSAC Light Heavyweight Champion
August 26, 1941 – July 26, 1948
World Light Heavyweight Champion
August 26, 1941 – July 26, 1948
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