Sammy Angott

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Sammy Angott (b. January 17, 1915, d. October 22, 1980) was born Samuel Engotti in Pennsylvania. He was known as a clever boxer who liked to follow up a clean punch by grabbing his opponent, causing him to be known as "The Clutch."

On May 3, 1940, the 5-8 fighter gained recognition from the N.B.A as its world lightweight champion when he outpointed Davey Day over 15 rounds. In 1939 Angott outpointed Lew Jenkins, who was recognized as the world title holder, to become the undisputed lightweight king. He defended the title only once, a 15-round points win over Allie Stolz in May 1942.

Angott, retired but returned to defeat the reigning world featherweight king, Willie Pep in a non-title bout. Eventually he regained the N.B.A. 135-pound crown by outpointing Slugger White in 15 rounds. He lost the title for good to Juan Zurita on March 8, 1944.

In his career, Angott met the best fighters in the welterweight and lightweight divisions. He fought Sugar Ray Robinson, Bob Montgomery, Beau Jack, Fritzie Zivic, Henry Armstrong and Ike Williams.

Angott retired with a record of 97 wins (22 KOs), 29 losses and 8 draws. He was knocked out just once in his career, by Beau Jack in 1946.