Don Cockell was an English boxer who fought for most of his career as a light-heavyweight and became the British and European champion at that weight. Later in his career he moved up to heavyweight and held the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles. He is best remembered for fighting against Rocky Marciano for the world heavyweight championship.

Don Cockell Boxer Biography: Book, Age, and Career

Cockell was born on 22 September 1928 in Balham, London. He began boxing in fairground booths and soon rose through the amateur ranks until he was ready to turn professional in 1946.

Cockell quickly established himself as a top fighter, and in 1950 he won the British light-heavyweight championship. He held that title for over three years, and in 1953 he won the European light-heavyweight championship.

In 1955, Cockell challenged Rocky Marciano for the world heavyweight championship. Marciano was undefeated at the time, and he was considered to be one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.

Cockell fought valiantly against Marciano, but he was eventually knocked out in the ninth round. However, Cockell’s performance against Marciano earned him the respect of the boxing world.

After his fight against Marciano, Cockell returned to the light-heavyweight division. He continued to fight for several more years, and he won the British and Commonwealth heavyweight titles in 1957.

Cockell retired from boxing in 1959 with a record of 66 wins, 14 losses, and 1 draw. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003.

Cockell was a tough and courageous fighter who was always willing to give it his all. He was a popular figure among British boxing fans, and he is still considered to be one of the greatest British boxers of all time.

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