Benny Leonard

Benny Leonard (born Benjamin Leiner; April 7, 1896 – April 18, 1947) was an American professional boxer who competed from 1911 to 1932. He held the world lightweight title from 1917 to 1925, making him the longest-reigning champion in the division's history. He is widely regarded not only as one of the greatest lightweights ever, but also as one of the sport's all-time greats.

In 1944, Leonard was awarded the Edward J. Neil Trophy by the Boxing Writers Association of New York. The Ring magazine named him Fighter of the Decade for the 1920s. Leonard was inducted into The Ring magazine Hall of Fame (1955), the International Jewish Sports Hall of Fame (1979), the World Boxing Hall of Fame (1980), the International Boxing Hall of Fame (1990), and the National Jewish Sports Hall of Fame (1996).