Chalky Wright

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Chalky Wright was an African-American featherweight boxer and world champion. He was born Albert Wright on February 10, 1912 in Durango, Colorado. He fought from 1928 to 1948, and his career record was 158 wins (77 KO), 43 losses and 17 draws. Wright made the Ring Magazine's list of 100 greatest punchers of all time.

Wright campaigned many years before getting a crack at the featherweight championship then held by Joey Archibald. On September 11, 1941, Wright dethroned Archibald by scoring a TKO in the eleventh round. Wright successfully defended the title against former champion Harry Jeffra (TKO 10) on June 19, 1942, but lost his title on a decision to the legendary Willie Pep on November 20, 1942. In 1938, Wright also met the great Henry Armstrong, but was knocked out in 3 rounds.

Wright served as a chauffeur and bodyguard for Mae West. Wright died on December 8, 1957 when he slipped in a bathtub and drowned.