Nickname: “The Tacoma Assassin”
Birthplace: Seattle, Washington, USA
Weight Class: Middleweight
Stance: Orthodox
Professional Record: 123 – 5 – 11 (60 KOs)
Years Active: 1930 – 1941
Biography
Steele was the World Middleweight Champion (1936 – 1938) known for his combination punching and high work rate. A star of the Pacific Northwest, he later became a Hollywood actor.
In the Hobby
Steele’s rookie marks the transition to photo-based magazine issues.
Rookie & Early Issues
1936 Churchman’s “Boxing Personalities” (UK): true rookie card.
Registry Metadata
Earliest Issue: 1936 Churchman’s
Rookie Year: 1936
Recent Notable Sales: 1936 Churchman’s (PSA 8) — $1,950 (2023)
Legacy
Freddie Steele’s rookie captures the forgotten brilliance of a regional champion turned pop-culture figure.