COCHRANE, FREDDIE "RED" SIGNED PHOTO

Freddie 'Red' Cochrane, (born May 6, 1915 in Elizabeth, NJ and died January 1, 1993), was a professional boxer in the welterweight (147lb) division. Cochrane turned pro in 1933 and was considered the World Welterweight champion in 1941 after beating Fritzie Zivic. Although he technically held the title for more than four years, he did not successfully defend it once due to World War II. In 1945 he fought a war with legendary Rocky Graziano in what was proclaimed 1945 Fight of the Year by Ring Magazine. Graziano was outboxed in the first eight rounds, but knocked down Cochrane in the 9th but the bell saved Cochrane from a KO. Cochrane was dropped again in the 10th for the full count. The Paid attendance for the bout was 18,071. Two months later he rematched Graziano and again was KO'd in the 10th round. Cochrane knocked down for seven nine counts before he took the full count in the tenth. The Paid attendance for the bout was 18,071 with a Gate of $100,469. With this bout, Graziano became the latest "Million Dollar Baby". In 1946 Cochrane took on Marty Servo for the World Welterweight Title and lost via 4th round KO. Servo would relinquish the crown in September due to "an aching nose." Sugar Ray Robinson would then win the vacant title in December. Presented here is signed photograph of Freddie "Red" Cochrane. From the collection of former boxer Vince Handley who has noted on the back this was signed at a dinner on May 12, 1962.
This is a promotional photo of Cochrane as he looked at the height of his career. Bold, clear image. Clean. Not torn. Creased in corners and on left side. Boldly signed in green ink, "Best Wishes to my very good friend Vince Freddie "Red" Cochrane." 8" x 10."