A BOXING SHOCKER
Posted: 03 Dec 2017, 19:37
On this date, just 47 years ago (1970), one of boxing's great upsets occurred.
8-1 underdog, the unheralded Billy Backus, won the world welterweight title by stopping the legendary Jose "Mantequilla" Napoles.
Backus did the trick in his hometown of Syracuse, NY, with his uncle, Carmen Basilio, working the corner.
Yes, it was Napoles' badly cut eye that gained Backus the title, the fight being stopped in the 4th round.
But it was still a staggering result, as few expected Backus, slightly better than a rugged journeyman, to even be around for the 4th.
Of course, Napoles would gain revenge just 7 months later at the Forum, dominating and knocking out Backus in 8 to take back the championship.
But for one night, 47 years ago, Billy Backus pulled off a stunner for the ages.
8-1 underdog, the unheralded Billy Backus, won the world welterweight title by stopping the legendary Jose "Mantequilla" Napoles.
Backus did the trick in his hometown of Syracuse, NY, with his uncle, Carmen Basilio, working the corner.
Yes, it was Napoles' badly cut eye that gained Backus the title, the fight being stopped in the 4th round.
But it was still a staggering result, as few expected Backus, slightly better than a rugged journeyman, to even be around for the 4th.
Of course, Napoles would gain revenge just 7 months later at the Forum, dominating and knocking out Backus in 8 to take back the championship.
But for one night, 47 years ago, Billy Backus pulled off a stunner for the ages.
