Inducted on November 5, 1978
Billy was born on February 18, 1927 in the small community of Wallington, New Jersey. At the tender age of 15, he fought his way up to the finals of the Paterson Diamond Gloves. The year 1944, he enlisted in the United States Navy. There he became All-Service Middleweight Champ. A member of that team was Louis Fugazy of the famous Fugazy family, well known in boxing circles. Bill also captured the Pacific Northwest Title in 1945-1946.
Billy’s pro career got underway in 1946 as he racked up 24 straight wins. He defeated Sal Belloise, Rocky Castellani, Gene Boland and Pete Zaduck. Billy also boxed Walter Cartier, and lost a close decision to Laverne Roach while in the service.
In 1950, he joined the Clifton Police Dept., working at the same time with the youth in the PAL. Several movie roles followed, including “On The Waterfront,” where he played as a stand-in for Marlon Brando, “The Hustler,” and “Somebody Up There Likes Me.”
In 1962, he became a U. S. Marshall, a position which he stills maintains to this day. To add to his long list of accomplishments, Billy is a renowned poet, having penned over 70 poems.
Billy won all but seven of his 42 pro fights, scoring 21 knockouts. At one time he was ranked the 13th best middleweight in the world. His real name is William Ramoth .. While throwing those Heavy Puches of his he was called Billy “Killer” Kilroy. He scored 12 Ko’s in his first 15 fights, as the boxing writers all wrote that “Kilroy was here.”
Billy is married, has 2 lovely daughters, and resides in Clifton, New Jersey. He is an active member of Ring 9, and will be honored on November 25 bv them. A credit to his familv, his community, ~nd his legion of friends, who all wish him well on this deserving occasion.
Boxing Record: click