HISTORY: Sugar Ray Robinson (Walker Smith, Jr.) became a professional fighter on October 4, 1940. He defeated Tommy Bell on December 20, 1946 to win the World Welterweight Title. He defeated Jake LaMotta on February 14, 1951 to win the World Middleweight Title. He would eventually win that title on four additional occasions. In a career which ran until 1965 he would claim victories over Gene Fullmer, Carmen Basilio, Kid Gavilan, Bobo Olson, Rocky Graziano, Henry Armstrong and Randy Turpin. Robinson served in the U. S. Army during World War II beginning in 1943. Robinson passed away in 1989. Offered here is an original photograph of Sugar Ray Robinson in army uniform posing with his welterweight opponent California Jackie Wilson. The two fought on February 19, 1943 with Robinson winning a majority ten round decision. Robinson has boldly signed the photo. Authenticated by PSA/DNA.
FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original, first generation photograph. Boldly signed in fountain pen to California Jackie Wilson, "Best Wishes To Jackie Sugar Ray Robinson." Bold, clear image. Pin hole at top center border. Corner creases. Clean front and back. Edge and corner wear. 8" x 10." An early signature of Robinson and the only we have seen of him in uniform. Authenticated by PSA/DNA and comes with their full letter with cert # AN07260.
