Profession: Boxer
Biography: Emile Griffith was an American boxer from the U.S. Virgin Islands who achieved significant fame in the 1960s. He is best known for his three fights with Benny Paret, which culminated in a bout where Paret tragically died from injuries sustained during the match.
Griffith's career spanned over two decades, during which he secured world championships in both the welterweight and middleweight divisions. His boxing prowess was marked by a combination of speed, power, and technique, earning him a place among the notable fighters of his generation.
Outside the ring, Griffith's personal life was complicated by societal attitudes of the era. He faced challenges relating to his race and sexuality, being bisexual, and was haunted after the tragic outcome of the Paret fight.
Born: February 3, 1938
Birthplace: Saint Thomas, US Virgin Islands
Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Tiger
Star Sign: Aquarius
Died: July 23, 2013 (aged 75)
Cause of Death: Dementia complications
Historical Events
- 1962-03-24 Emile Griffith beats Benny " Kid" Paret by TKO in 12th round in welterweight boxing title fight at MSG, NYC; Paret dies 10 days later; first use of television slow motion replay
- 1967-04-17 Italian boxer Nino Benvenuti beats American Emile Griffith in a 15 round points decision to win world middleweight crown at Madison Square Garden; start of famous trilogy of fights between the pair
- 1967-09-29 American boxer Emile Griffith regains his world middleweight crown on points in a brawling re-match with Italian Nino Benvenuti at Shea Stadium, NY; second of famous trilogy of fights
- 1968-03-04 Italian boxer Nino Benvenuti regains world middleweight title with a 15-round points decision over American champion Emile Griffith at Madison Square Garden, NY; last of famous trilogy of fights
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