In The News

Boxer Irish Tom McNeeley passes away

Boxer Irish Tom McNeeley passes away

TRIBUTES have been paid to the boxer Tom McNeeley who has died aged 74.

Known as Irish Tom, Mr. McNeeley challenged Floyd Patterson for the world heavyweight championship in 1961 (see below).

The fight, regarded as a mismatch, lasted an action-packed four rounds, but Mr. McNeeley was to lose his challenge after suffering a number of knockdowns.

He was 24 at time and had been boxing professionally for almost three years with an impressive 23 wins under his belt.

The Boston-based fighter continued as a professional until retiring in 1966 with a record standing at 37 wins (including 28 knockouts) and 14 defeats.

During his career he had taken on, but was beaten by Brian London, Jose Torres and Oscar Bonavena.

After retirement he served as state boxing commissioner in Massachusetts before spending many years as director of recreation for the state’s Department of Correction.

To view Tom McNeeley’s fight with Floyd Patterson click here.

 

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