Hall of Fame flags at half-mast for Saddler

By Paul Upham: The flags at the International Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New York are flying at half-mast in memory of former world featherweight champion Sandy Saddler, who passed away last Tuesday at the age of 75.

The Hall of Fame’s flags, already at half-mast out of respect for victims of last week’s terrorist attacks in the USA, will continue to fly at half-mast in memory of Saddler.

“Sandy Saddler was a strong, determined fighter and will be remembered as one of the top featherweights of all time,” said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. “He will be missed.”

Saddler reigned twice as world featherweight champion (1948-1949 and 1950-1956) and also held the junior lightweight title (1949-1950). Saddler’s rivalry with Hall of Famer Willie Pep is legendary. Saddler beat Pep for the featherweight title in 1948, lost the rematch and then recorded TKO’s over Pep in two subsequent bouts. A devastating puncher, Saddler registered 103 knockouts in 162 bouts, including stoppages over Hall of Famers Joe Brown and Flash Elorde. Saddler retired in 1956 with a 144-16-2 (103) record.

Saddler was elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.


Paul Upham
Contributing Editor