CALLURA, JACKIE SIGNED PHOTO (1943)

John "Jackie" Callura (September 14, 1917[1] – November 4, 1993) was a Canadian featherweight boxer. He was born and died in Hamilton, Ontario,. Callura won the national featherweight title in 1931 and was a member of the 1932 Summer Olympics team. In 1932 he was eliminated in the first round of the Olympic flyweight competition after losing his fight to the upcoming bronze medalist Louis Salica. He turned professional in 1936 with a win over Joe Tambe on April 3, 1936. He became the world featherweight champion by defeating Jackie Wilson in 1943. He defended his title twice until losing to Phil Terranova. In addition to Wilson and Terranova Callura fought notable fights with Lou Salica, Maxie Shapiro, Baby Arizmendi, KO Morgan and Dave Castilloux. He retired after a loss to Humberto Sierra on June 4, 1947 with a final record of 59-41-12.In 1969, he was inducted into Canada's Sports Hall of Fame. Jackie Callura passed away on November 15, 1993. Offered here is an extremely scarce signed photograph of Jackie Callura, signed as world champion on May 21, 1943.
This is an original photograph of Jackie Callura in period dress walking with his manager. Boldly signed in white ink, "To Clare From Jackie Callura Worlds Featherweight Champion 5/21/43." Bold, clear image in sepia tone. Minor crease in lower right corner. Clean front and back. Minor edge wear. 8" x 10." A rare signed photograph of Jackie Callura, the only we have offered.