Bain, Abie

Bain, who fought as a light-heavyweight in the 1920s and early 1930s out of Newark, worked in movies after retiring. Bain's unique voice, which had been caused by botched surgery, was the inspiration for Anthony Quinn's performance in the movie Requiem for a Heavyweight (1962). Bain's daughter Riselle noted that, "Quinn actually lived with my father for months and studied him." Bain is a member of the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame.

Birth and Death Dates:
unknown

Career Highlights:
Bain began his career as a flyweight at age 12, but fought professionally as a light-heavyweight and heavyweight. He turned pro in 1924 and fought Jack McVey, "The Pride of Harlem," three times between 1928-1930. All three fights took place in Bain's hometown of Newark, with each fighter winning once, and one draw. By 1930, Bain was a contender for the world light-heavyweight title -- and on October 22, he faced champion Maxie Rosenbloom. In Rosenbloom's first title defense, he defeated Bain on a technical knockout in the eleventh round.

It would be Bain's only title shot, but he continued to fight for another two years, and moved up in weight. As a heavyweight in 1931, Bain faced contender Tony Galento in Newark, and lost in the fourth round on a technical knockout. The following year, Bain won an eight-round decision over Georgie Forrester in Elizabeth, New Jersey, Forrester's hometown. According to the Associated Press at the time, the crowd rushed into the ring and tore up the referee's scorecard after Bain's hand was raised in victory -- police had to intervene to prevent a riot (www.boxrec.com). Bain retired that year with a record of 48 career wins in 63 decisions.

Origin:
Newark, New Jersey

Career Statistics:
Professional record:
Wins: 48 (31 by knockout)
Losses: 11
Draws: 4
No decisions: 31

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