| Ike Williams | |
|---|---|
| Statistics | |
| Rated at | Lightweight |
| Height | 5 ft 9 in (1.75 m) |
| Reach | 68 in (173 cm) |
| Nationality | American |
| Born | August 2, 1923 Brunswick, Georgia, U.S. |
| Died | September 5, 1994 (aged 71) |
| Boxing record | |
| Total fights | 154 |
| Wins | 125 |
| Wins by KO | 60 |
| Losses | 24 |
| Draws | 5 |
| No contests | 0 |
Ike Williams (August 2, 1923 – September 5, 1994) was a former lightweight world boxing champion. Williams was known for his great right hand, and was named to the Ring Magazine's list of 100 greatest punchers of all time as well as Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year for 1948.
During his career, Williams faced and defeated former lightweight champions Sammy Angott, Bob Montgomery, and Beau Jack.
Williams won the NBA world title when he defeated Juan Zurita in April 1945. He held on to the crown until May 1951, when he was stopped by Jimmy Carter.
Williams, for part of his career, was managed by Frank "Blinky" Palermo. According to Williams, he was blackballed by the boxing managers guild when he sought to manage himself. Palermo informed him he could resolve his problems with the guild, and Williams agreed to let Palermo manage him. Williams testified before the Kefauver Commission that Palermo did not arrange for him to throw any fights, but that he robbed him of his purses. Nevertheless, Williams did claim to have taken a dive against Chuck Davey, a much hyped contender for the welterweight crown.
| Awards | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Gus Lesnevich |
Ring Magazine Fighter of the Year 1948 |
Succeeded by Ezzard Charles |