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Al KaufmanAmerican boxer, heavyweight
Date of Birth: 06.01.1886
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Biography of Al Kaufman
- Early Career and Victory over Tony Ross
- Bout with Jack Johnson
- Defeat to Al Palzer and Luther McCarty
- Final Victory and Retirement
- Death
Biography of Al Kaufman
Al Kaufman was an American heavyweight boxer and one of the "Great White Hopes" during the championship reign of African-American boxer Jack Johnson. His active career spanned from 1905 to 1915, starting off fighting in his hometown of San Francisco, California, before making a name for himself on the national level.
Early Career and Victory over Tony Ross
Kaufman gained recognition as a cautious yet dangerous fighter. He had an encounter with Johnson even before their title fight. Johnson attended Kaufman's match against Tony Ross on April 13, 1909, in the Bronx. Kaufman, who was considered a serious and capable opponent for Johnson, emerged victorious in a 10-round decision. It was reported that Johnson openly mocked Kaufman and Ross.
Bout with Jack Johnson
Five months later, on September 9, Kaufman faced Johnson in the ring. According to 'The Associated Press', Johnson dominated the fight from the beginning, landing punches effortlessly and having the ability to end the fight at any moment. Kaufman managed to launch only two truly effective attacks. The fight lasted for 10 rounds, and ultimately Johnson was declared the winner.
Defeat to Al Palzer and Luther McCarty
Two years later, on December 28, 1911, Kaufman suffered a defeat to Al Palzer, the winner of the "White Hope" tournament and a future contender for the "white" heavyweight championship. Palzer went on to compete for the title against Luther McCarty, who had previously defeated Kaufman on October 12, 1912. McCarty knocked Kaufman down three times, and after a blow, Kaufman literally flew out of the ring and landed on his knees in front of a journalist. Six months later, Kaufman became McCarthy's sparring partner after McCarthy defeated Palzer.
Final Victory and Retirement
Kaufman achieved his last victory on May 16, 1913, by knocking out Al Benedict in the 4th round. After a 15-month break, he returned to the ring and suffered two defeats in 1914 and a draw in 1915. By the end of his career, Kaufman officially recorded 22 wins (17 by knockout) and 7 losses (5 by knockout).
