The lightweight division, one of boxing’s oldest and most iconic, has consistently produced the best lightweight boxing champions throughout history. Dating back to 1738, it was among the earliest weight classes, ensuring fairness by dividing fighters into categories. Its long history has seen some of the finest boxers, and even today, it remains highly competitive, with champions often holding titles across multiple divisions.
Jack McAuliffe, the first-ever lightweight world champion, held the title from 1886 to 1893 and retired undefeated a rare feat achieved by only 15 world champions. His record of 27 wins and 11 draws cements his legacy among the best lightweight boxing champions in history.
List of 10 Lightweight Boxing Champions
| Rank | Boxer | Record | Nationality |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Benny Leonard | 185-22-9, 70 KO | United States |
| 2 | Joe Gans | 157-12-22, 100 KO | United States |
| 3 | Tony Canzoneri | 141-24-10, 44 KO | United States |
| 4 | Roberto Duran | 103-16, 70 KO | Panama |
| 5 | Ike Williams | 128-24-5, 61 KO | United States |
| 6 | Julio Cesar Chavez | 107-6-2, 85 KO | Mexico |
| 7 | Freddie Welsh | 121-29-17, 34 KO | Wales |
| 8 | Lou Ambers | 89-8-7, 29 KO | United States |
| 9 | Pernell Whitaker | 40-4-1, 17 KO | United States |
| 10 | Carlos Ortiz | 61-7-1, 30 KO | Puerto Rico |
1. Benny Leonard
Nicknamed “The Ghetto Wizard,” Benny Leonard is remembered as one of boxing’s smartest fighters. Known for his tactical brilliance, Leonard dominated the lightweight division in its golden era, becoming the undisputed champion in 1917. Over two decades (1912-1932), he lost just one fight, retiring with a record of 185 wins, 22 losses, 9 draws, and 70 knockouts. Leonard is often ranked among the greatest boxers of all time.
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2. Joe Gans
Known as “The Old Master,” Joe Gans was a pioneer in boxing and is celebrated among the best lightweight boxing champions in history. He made history in 1902 as the first African-American world champion of the 20th century by winning the lightweight title. Over the next six years, Gans successfully defended his title 15 times, showcasing his incredible skill and earning a reputation as one of the most talented fighters ever. His enduring legacy is honored with a statue at Madison Square Garden, which boxers tap for good luck before their matches.
3. Tony Canzoneri
A versatile fighter and one of the best lightweight boxing champions, Tony Canzoneri was a three-division world champion and a pound-for-pound great in boxing history. Born in Louisiana in 1908, he rose to fame in New York, securing his first lightweight title in 1930. Known for his intelligence and power, Canzoneri defeated legendary opponents like Kid Chocolate and Lou Ambers, cementing his legacy as one of the best lightweight boxing champions.
4. Roberto Duran
Panama’s Roberto Duran, famously known as “Hands of Stone,” is regarded as one of the best lightweight boxing champions in history. His extraordinary career spanned five decades, during which he claimed titles across four weight classes. However, his dominance in the lightweight division stood out, as he held the title for seven years and successfully defended it 12 times. Renowned for his aggression, skill, and remarkable longevity, Duran remains a true legend in the world of boxing.
5. Ike Williams
Ike Williams, born in Georgia in 1923, is celebrated as one of the best lightweight boxing champions in history, renowned for his ruthless punching power. Between 1945 and 1951, he defended his title successfully eight times, securing his status as a legend in the lightweight division. His incredible strength and skill earned him a spot in Ring Magazine’s list of the top 100 punchers in boxing history, further solidifying his reputation as one of the greatest.
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