14 Facts About Len Harvey

Len Harvey became the light-heavyweight and heavyweight champion of the British Empire, and was recognised as world light-heavyweight champion in Britain from 1939 to 1942.

Len Harvey was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in the class of 2008.

Len Harvey was held to a draw though by Harry Mason on 29 April 1926.

Len Harvey knocked out his opponent in the seventh round to become British champion.

Len Harvey fought Marcel Thil of France for the world middleweight championship.

Len Harvey then went on to beat Canada's Larry Gains to become British Empire champion, but lost both titles in a rematch with Petersen being stopped in the 12th round on cuts.

Len Harvey then went on to fight for the world title on 9 November 1936, but was beaten on points by John Henry Lewis.

Len Harvey then regained the British Heavyweight title by disqualification against old foe Eddie Phillips.

In 1938 John Henry Lewis retired after developing eye problems, Len Harvey was then matched with another old foe Jock McAvoy for British recognition of the world championship at Harringay Arena.

Len Harvey was seen in the eyes of the public as a national sporting idol and was given an officer rank.

Len Harvey was a veteran of over a hundred bouts and was 35 years old.

Len Harvey had an official record of 146 fights, 122 wins, 10 draws and 14 defeats: he claimed to have had 418 fights, but they probably included booth fights.

Len Harvey later died in Plymouth on 28 November 1976 of a heart attack relaxing at his home and commenting to his wife he was feeling ill.

Len Harvey was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2008.