The Fighting Life And Times Of Mickey Walker: The Legend That Left an Indelible Mark on Boxing

In the annals of boxing history, there are those fighters whose names reverberate through the ages. Mickey Walker, born Edward Patrick Walker, is undeniably one of them. His fighting prowess, iconic battles, and larger-than-life persona have solidified his place as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

An Early Start in the Gloves

Mickey Walker was born on July 13, 1903, in Elizabeth, New Jersey. Growing up in a tough neighborhood, he quickly learned to defend himself and harness his prodigious energy. Walker quickly discovered his natural talent for pugilism, and at the age of 15, he laced up his gloves for his first amateur fight.

Walker's early years in the ring were marked with up-and-down performances, but his tenacity and relentless spirit propelled him forward. By 1921, he turned professional and embarked on a meteoric rise that would see him conquer five different weight divisions.

Toy Bulldog: The Fighting Life and Times of Mickey Walker

by John Jarrett (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5244 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	249 pages

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A True Warrior Inside the Ring

What set Mickey Walker apart from his contemporaries was his unyielding will to win. Standing at 5 feet 7 inches and weighing around 145 pounds, Walker was not a physically imposing figure. However, his heart, technique, and a warrior spirit that refused to surrender carried him to victories against some of the most formidable opponents of his era.

Throughout his career, Walker faced legends of the sport such as Jack Britton, Harry Greb, and Tiger Flowers. His aggressive style and relentless attacks captivated audiences and made him a beloved figure in the boxing world. Walker's fearlessness in the ring earned him the nickname "The Toy Bulldog" – a moniker that perfectly encapsulated his compact power and unwavering determination.

A Champion Among Champions

Walker's crowning achievement came in 1922 when he captured the world welterweight title by defeating Britton in a brutal 15-round bout. He defended the title successfully six times and then moved up in weight to challenge for the middleweight crown.

In 1926, Walker faced the legendary middleweight champion Harry Greb – a fierce and skilled fighter who had previously beaten Walker earlier in his career. In an epic showdown, Walker triumphantly avenged his earlier defeat and claimed the middleweight championship, solidifying his status as one of the true greats of the sport.

A Life Filled with Triumphs and Challenges

While Mickey Walker's career reached incredible heights, his personal life was not without struggles. He battled alcoholism and faced financial difficulties throughout his life. However, his unwavering spirit never waned, and he eventually conquered these demons.

After retiring from the ring, Walker dabbled in various professions, including acting and running a speakeasy during the Prohibition era. He also opened a boxing gym, where he trained young fighters and shared his expertise and experiences with the next generation.

The Legacy of a Boxing Legend

Mickey Walker's legacy extends far beyond his remarkable accomplishments inside the ring. His indomitable spirit, courage, and ability to overcome adversities continue to inspire fighters and fans alike. With his unconventional fighting style and infectious personality, Walker left an indelible mark on boxing that will forever be celebrated.

Today, Walker's name stands among the pantheon of boxing's greatest legends. His contributions to the sport cannot be overstated, and his story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and determination.

In

Mickey Walker's life and times were filled with triumphs and challenges. From his humble beginnings in New Jersey to his legendary battles in the ring, Walker's journey epitomizes the essence of boxing – the pursuit of greatness in the face of adversity.

As we reflect on the legacy of "The Toy Bulldog," let us remember Mickey Walker as not only a fierce warrior but also as a symbol of resilience and unwavering determination. His fighting spirit will continue to inspire generations of fighters and fans to come.

Toy Bulldog: The Fighting Life and Times of Mickey Walker

by John Jarrett (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5244 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	249 pages

FREE

This is a cradle-to-grave biography of Mickey Walker, former welterweight (1922-1926) and middleweight champion (1926-1931) of the world, one of the greatest fighters in ring history. He fought at a time when boxing was a major sport with only eight championships, and he held two of them over a nine-year period. He fought at a time when each weight division was jammed with good fighters, and he fought them all from welterweight up to heavyweight, frequently being outweighed 20 to 30 pounds.
Walker was also a great personality who loved life and lived it to the fullest. He was married seven times to four different women, and he cavorted with movie stars and mobsters. When his boxing career ended in 1935, Walker ran saloons in various locations and eventually became an artist of some standing. He died in 1981 at age 79.