On this day, July 10th, at Civic Stadium in Buffalo, New York, a 24-year old Willie Pep (101-1-1, 31 KO) knocked out Harold Gibson via 7th round TKO. It was the second time they had fought as the December of the previous year they fought to a decision that Pep won.
Pep had an impressive record of 229 wins, 11 losses, and one draw, with 65 wins coming by knockout throughout his illustrious career. He competed in a total of 241 bouts, which is a substantial number even by the standards of his era, and an even bigger number in the modern era. Pep was known for his exceptional speed, finesse, and elusiveness inside the ring. His defensive skills and footwork made him a difficult opponent to hit, as Pep is credited with reinventing defense in boxing, as Pep went by the nickname "Will o' the Wisp."
Pep held the World Featherweight championship twice. His first reign as champion lasted from 1942 to 1948. Pep lost the championship to Sandy Saddler in 1948 but regained it in a rematch with Saddler in 1949. Unfortunately, Pep lost the title to Saddler once again in 1950. As Sadler is truly one of the forgotten legends of a previous era.
Pep is a hall-of-fame boxer and is considered one of the greatest featherweight boxers of all time. The Associated Press voted him as the No. 1 featherweight of the 20th century, and along with many other reputable outlets.
Despite retiring in 1960, Pep made a brief comeback in 1964 and continued boxing for two more years before finally retiring for good in 1966.
Pep is best remembered for his defensive skill and the adage that he once won a round without throwing a punch.
