Inducted on November 15, 1985
POSTHUMOUS HONOREE CARL DUANE
Former Junior World’s Featherweight Champion 1923
Carl was born Carl Vaconetti in New York City on June 25, 1902.
When Carl was boxing at Smokers as a teenager, his father would say, “I wish he would settle down and become a diamond setter, he’s got the hands.”
What Dad didn’t realize was Carl was on his way to prove a jewel with his hands. Five decades later – he fought from 1920 to 1930 – older fans still speak of this one-time great featherweight hero.
He was a boxer who could punch, could carry a pace, who had competitive courage and a sturdy chin.
The legends of his career invariably touch on his two great fights with Frankie Jerome in 1923. The first one ended in a twelve round draw and three months later, in Madison Square Garden, Carl won the second one. He had been coming on strong in 1923. He was unbeaten in 17 starts. He fought two draws, in both of which he wiped out his opponent in return bouts.
During the year 1923 he defeated (among others) Charlie (Phil) Rosenberg, Lou Herley, Danny Edwards, Harry London, Young Montreal, Mickey Brown, Frankie Conway and Jack (Kid) Wolfe for the Junior Featherweight Championship of the World.
His overall record was 74 fights with 40 wins by decision and 16 by knockouts, six losses and two draw decisions.
Carl was a Gentleman and a Champion in and out of the ring – and a credit to the boxing profession.
Researched by –
Bob Osborne-Board Member New Jersey Boxing Hall Of Fame
Carl Duane, also nicknamed the “Bronx Steamroller,” was featured on the cover of the March 1924 issue of The Ring magazine.
Boxing Record: click