Inducted on November 20, 1992
“THE BRONX CYCLONE”
Born December 27, 1917 in the South Bronx, Patsy began his turbulent ring career in 1938 as an amateur fighter in small semi-pro clubs. While in the amateurs, Pat won 5 Golden Gloves titles and several Diamond Belts. His pro career began in the latter part of 1939 with Al Lions as his manager.
In 1940, Patsy trained with Lou Ambers at Madams Bays Training Camp. Among his other trainers were Whitey Bimstein, Lolly Kent, Al Weill, Phil Serrani, Bobby Gleason, Irv Cohen, and Jack Barrett. Patsy fought and held his own against such fighters as Tippy Larkin, Charly Smith, Bernard Docuser, Maxie Berger, and Chalky Wright. Patsy fought a benefit with Tippy Larkin in September, 1943 at Elizabeth for a child, Mary Drury, who had lost her legs in a train accident. The “Bronx Cyclone” was turbulent but compassionate.
His bout against Freddy Archer in New Orleans in March, 1945 ended in riot when Archer thumbed him and the referee held Patsy back. Patsy was fined $500 and suspended from fighting for three months. Pat did not condone “dirty” fighting. Patsy ended his career in 1948 with a bout against Sandy Sadler.
After he retired from pro boxing, he opened a barbershop in the Bronx. In 1958, he decided to move his family to New Jersey to live in the “clean country”. Patsy opened a barbershop in Jersey where many fans came to see him.
In 1954, Patsy became involved in boxing again in the Lakewood YMCA where he undertook the task of training young men for self-defense and amateur fights. He helped form the Raritan Boxing Club, a HUD-founded boxing program in Freehold, and assisted in the formation of the Howell PAL. Pat was also a charter member and Past President of Ring 54. He continued to devote his time and energy to boxing and the “kids” until 1987 when poor health prevented him from working with his beloved sport.
Patsy’s favorite quote has always been: “A man who conquers himself is better than a general who conquers cities.”
Boxing Record: click