HAIRSTON, EUGENE SIGNED PHOTO

HISTORY: Eugene Hairston was a New York Middleweight who compiled a career record of 45-13-5 and actually beat Bobo Olson once and fought to a draw with Jake LaMotta. Eugene "Silent" Hairston was the first American professional Black Deaf boxer. He was born in Harlem in 1929 and became deaf at 1 year old due to a case of spinal meningitis. Growing up, he went to P.S. 47 until he was 15, when he had to drop out to help support his family. He started boxing as an amateur in 1945, winning 59 out of his 60 matches. In 1947, Hairston became a professional boxer. During his time as a boxer, his most famous fight was against Jake LaMotta which ended in a draw. He was also the Golden Glove champion in 1947. In 1953, Hairston had to retire due to injuries. After his time as a boxer, Hairston worked for UPS. Eugene Hairston is a source of pride for the Black Deaf community and it is said that he proudly claimed the nickname "Silent Hairston" as a descriptor of himself. Additionally, it is said that Eugene Hairston needed flashing lights to indicate when matches were over, something that fans fondly remember him for. Presented here is a signed and inscribed photo of Hairston.

FULL DESCRIPTION: This is a signed and inscribed photo of Hairston. Boldly signed in ink, "To Ronald E. Koepke Good Luck & Best Wishes Your Friend Eugene Hairston." The photo measures 5 inches by 8 inches. Staple holes in corners. Not creased or torn.