Born George Henry Chaney on April 16, 1892 in Baltimore, MD. Chaney turned pro as a bantamweight in 1910.
With explosive power in either hand, he is considered one of the hardest hitters in boxing history. His knockout power was evident early on, kayoing Hall of Famer Kid Williams (KO 6) in 1911. The 5’ 1 ½” southpaw reportedly gained his nickname from Charlie Chaplin who said he punched so hard his middle name must “Knockout, signed K.O.” In 1912 he defeated Charley Goldman over 15 brutal rounds to establish himself as a legitimate contender. During his career he registered knockout wins over Young Britt, Young Terry McGovern, Phil. Pal Moore and Eddie O’Keefe among others. He also engaged in memorable no-decision contests with Hall of Fame champions Johnny Dundee, Rocky Kansas and Lew Tendler. Chaney met featherweight king Johnny Kilbane in a 1916 title go, but was stopped in three rounds by the clever champion. In 1921 he met Dundee for the vacant junior lightweight title but lost by foul in five.
The always-exciting Chaney retired as a lightweight in 1925 with 80 knockouts to his credit and a reputation as a vicious body puncher and one of the most dynamic punchers pound-for-pound ever. Chaney died on December 20, 1958 in Baltimore.
Born: April 16, 1892
Died: Dec. 20, 1958
Induction: 2014
George (K.O.) Chaney
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