Jack Dillon | |
---|---|
Statistics | |
Real name | Ernest Cutler Price |
Nickname(s) | Hoosier Bearcat Jack the Giant Killer |
Rated at |
Light Heavyweight Middleweight |
Height | 5 ft 7.5 in (1.71 m) |
Reach | 72 in (180 cm) |
Nationality | United States |
Born |
Frankfort, Indiana |
February 2, 1891
Died | August 7, 1942 Chattahoochee, Florida |
(aged 51)
Stance | Orthodox |
Boxing record | |
Total fights | 252 |
Wins | 187 |
Wins by KO | 66 |
Losses | 27 |
Draws | 32 |
No contests | 6 |
Ernest Cutler Price (April 23, 1891 – August 7, 1942) better known as Jack "Hoosier Bearcat" Dillon, was an American boxer who held the Light Heavyweight Championship of the World. Dillon was often referred to as "Jack the Giant Killer" for his ability to handle the most dangerous heavyweights of his era. Ring Magazine founder Nat Fleischer ranked Dillon as the #3 Light Heavyweight of all-time, while boxing promoter Charley Rose placed him at #2. The International Boxing Research Organization rates Dillon as the 16th best Light-Heavyweight ever. He was inducted into the Ring Magazine Hall of Fame in 1959 and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1995.
Price took the name "Jack Dillon" from the famous racehorse, Sidney Dillon. Price worked at the farm/stable where the horse was housed. At his first fight, Price appeared very nervous. When asked his name, he said Sidney Dillon. The referee misunderstood him, and bawled out "Jack Dillon!" (May 20, 1916, Tacoma Daily News).
Dillon turned pro in 1908 and won the vacant World Light Heavyweight title with a win over Battling Levinsky in 1914. In 1916 he lost the belt in a rematch with Levinsky over 12 rounds.
In retirement, Dillon lived next door to a restaurant that he owned and operated. Dillon died on August 7, 1942, in Chattahoochee, Florida, aged 51.