Although his prime was short, 1937-41, Hostak was a very good fighter in his day and probably the best middleweight in the world at one point.
He showed punching power when he blasted out Freddie Steele in just half a round. Quality names like Eddie Risko and Solly Krieger were also sent to the canvas in helpless states.
He showed heart when he fought 12 rounds with a broken hand against Kriger in their first fight. When it was all over his hand was so swollen the glove had to be cut open.
Not to forget the tremendous heart he showed in the thrid fight with Tony Zale, getting up eight times before the referee stopped the fight in the second round.
Al Hostak was a terror in the middleweight division for a while.
May he rest in peace.