Nickname: “The Bombardier”
Birthplace: Sumter, South Carolina, USA
Weight Class: Lightweight
Stance: Orthodox
Professional Record: 75 – 19 – 3 (37 KOs)
Years Active: 1938 – 1950

Biography

Bob Montgomery was one of the finest lightweights of the 1940s — a relentless, intelligent fighter who blended offense and defense with precision. After debuting in 1938, he rose quickly through the ranks and captured the World Lightweight Title in 1943, defeating Beau Jack in one of their multiple classic encounters.

Montgomery defended his crown several times and engaged in a legendary rivalry with both Beau Jack and Ike Williams, earning universal respect for his skill, professionalism, and sportsmanship. After retiring, he served honorably in the U.S. Army and became a mentor to young fighters.

Bob Montgomery in the Hobby

Montgomery’s card appearances are limited but significant, appearing in the earliest post-Depression U.S. issues that bridged the gap between pre-war and postwar boxing.

Rookie & Early Issues

1948 – Leaf Boxing (USA): Universally accepted as Montgomery’s rookie card. Features a dynamic red-and-yellow design typical of the Leaf set; highly collectible as part of the first major American postwar release.
1951 – Topps Ringside (USA): His second major appearance, part of Topps’ debut boxing series.
1956 – Hemmets Journal (Sweden): Rare European issue produced after retirement, honoring past champions.

Registry Metadata

Earliest Issue: 1948 Leaf Boxing (USA)
Rookie Year: 1948
Key Sets: 1948 Leaf, 1951 Topps Ringside, 1956 Hemmets Journal
Grading Rarity: 1948 Leaf PSA pop ≈ 80; PSA 8+ examples increasingly scarce
Recent Notable Sales: 1948 Leaf (PSA 8) — $1,950 (2024)

Legacy

A craftsman in the ring and a gentleman outside it, Bob Montgomery represented the best of the 1940s lightweight era. His 1948 Leaf rookie is a gem of postwar boxing history — a card that connects the sport’s wartime heroes with its modern evolution.