Historical Hockey Memorabilia Auction Fall 2021
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/26/2021
Winning 78 of his 102 bouts including 43 by knockout, Johnny Greco held the Canadian welterweight title from 1946 to 1952 before losing his life in an automobile accident at the early age of 31, in December of 1954. Beginning his pro journey and ascension to stardom in 1940, Greco defeated Dave Castilloux for the Canadian Welterweight championship in 1946, and would defend the title until 1952 in five bouts. Extremely rare and absolutely stunning in appearance, sporting a distinguished and elegant design, this Ring Magazine Canadian Welterweight Championship belt was presented to the champ – most likely at the time of his 1946 Welterweight title – and it is accompanied by it’s original presentation case. Featuring raised enamel Canadian Red Ensign and American flags and topped by a majestic eagle, the center shield-shaped plate has The Ring Magazine logo engraved along with “Canadian Welterweight Championship”, with the space beneath “Won by” left blank (the left plate that would also house the date has been left blank). Additional plates at each side secured by chain link and wreath/glove medallions feature embossed fighters, with “At the Montreal Forum” engraved to the right plate. The silk tri-colour belt has a sticker on the reverse from Bert Light engravers in Montreal, with a stamp from "Populare M. Co. NYC" on the reverse of the center plate. While there is oxidation and scratches to the metal components and light wear to the fabric, the belt survives in wonderful condition, with minimal wear to the original 24 ½” x 8 ½” x ¾” case. A newsprint photo of Greco receiving this belt is also included.
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