Battling Levinsky

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Barney Williams (better known as Battling Levinsky; born Barney Lebrowitz June 10, 1891 – died February 12, 1949 in Philadelphia, PA) was light heavyweight boxing champion of the world.

Levinksy's record has been published in many record books, especially the Police Gazette Sporting Annual, 1914-1918 editions; T.S. Andrews' Sporting Annual, 1915-1922 and 1928-1929 editions; and many editions of The Ring Record Book. Almost all of these records contain numerous errors. Levinsky's many verified fights are in the linked record. Here is a list of his unverified fights, from older record books: 1909: Paddy Burns (in Pottsville, PA), No decision 6; Cropy Melley, No decision 6; Paddy Burns (a second meeting), No decision 6; Marty McAndrews, W ko 5; Jack Krause, W ko 6; Paddy Burns (a third meeting), W Points 6; Fighting Dick, W ko 4. 1911: Jack Mitchell, No decision 10; Jeff Clark, No decision 10. (These 1911 unverified fights may have occurred in Joplin or elsewhere in Missouri.)

Levinsky fought as Barney Williams until Dan Morgan became his manager, in 1913. In his early career, Levinsky was managed by Fred Douglas (1910-11) and Jack Hanlon (1911-13). Morgan managed Levinsky throughout his heyday, 1913-22. Al Lippe managed him in his comeback, 1926-29.