Born: 1929 (Cottingham, East Riding of Yorkshire, England)
Biography:
Barbara Buttrick, affectionately known as Battling Barbara, was born on December 3, 1929, in Cottingham, East Riding of Yorkshire, England. She would go on to become a trailblazer in the world of women’s professional boxing, earning the title of world champion in the 1940s and 1950s.
Buttrick began her professional career as a shorthand typist in London’s West End. Standing at just 4’11 tall, she quickly gained recognition as The Mighty Atom of the Ring. Despite her petite stature, Buttrick showcased remarkable skill and determination in the ring as she fought her way from 98 lbs to become the unbeaten flyweight (112) and bantamweight (118) champion from 1950 to 1960.
In 1948, Buttrick embarked on her boxing journey, performing as a bantamweight in the boxing booth at European carnivals. Seeking new opportunities, she ventured to the United States in the mid-1950s, joining the carnival circuit. However, she found the American carnivals to be rougher than their European counterparts and soon shifted her focus to professional boxing. She competed in Canada, Chicago, and southern Florida, creating history by participating in the first women’s boxing match broadcasted on radio in Canada.
In 1954, Buttrick made a significant impact on American national television as she was part of the first boxing match between two women. Her tenacious spirit and groundbreaking performances captivated audiences and played a crucial role in shaping women’s boxing as a recognized and respected sport.
The year 1957 brought a new chapter in Buttrick’s career as she moved to Dallas. She and her opponent, Phyllis Kugler, both obtained the state’s first boxing licenses for women. Their clash resulted in a world title bout held in San Antonio. Buttrick emerged triumphant, securing a unanimous decision and etching her name in history as the first women’s world boxing champion.
Throughout her career, Buttrick faced numerous challenges, but her indomitable spirit propelled her forward. She engaged in over 1,000 exhibitions with male opponents and competed in 18 professional women’s fights. Her only recorded loss occurred when she faced Joann Hagen, outweighed by 33 pounds and battling the flu. Ultimately, Buttrick retired from boxing in 1960, leaving behind an impressive record of 30–1–1.
After a hiatus of 15 years, Buttrick briefly returned to the ring in 1977, demonstrating her enduring passion for the sport that had shaped her life. However, her contributions to boxing extended beyond her time as an active fighter.
In the mid-1990s, Buttrick established the Women’s International Boxing Federation (WIBF), becoming its president. This organization played a vital role in developing and promoting women’s boxing, granting it the recognition and support it deserved. Buttrick’s tireless efforts ensured that aspiring female boxers had a platform to showcase their skills and pursue their dreams.
In recognition of her remarkable achievements, Barbara Buttrick was inducted into the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, in 2014. Her legacy continues to inspire and motivate women in the sport, and in 2016, a stage play titled Mighty Atoms by Amanda Whittington was premiered in Hull, England, as part of the city’s UK City of Culture celebrations in 2017.
Furthermore, in 2019, Buttrick achieved another historic milestone. She became one of the first three women boxers, and the first English woman boxer, to be elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame. This momentous occasion marked the inclusion of women on the ballot for the first time.
Barbara Buttrick’s unwavering determination, skill, and contributions to women’s boxing have solidified her as a true pioneer in the sport. Her journey, marked by triumphs and challenges, exemplifies the strength and resilience of women who defy societal norms and break barriers.
Awards:
– Induction into the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame in 2014
– Induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2019