‘Teddy Baldock – The Pride of Poplar’ by Brian Belton is the story of Britain’s youngest ever boxing world champion.
Born at Poplar in east London in 1908, and coming from a family of fighters, Teddy Baldock went on to beat American Archie Bell at the Royal Albert Hall and take the world bantamweight title. This period of boxing history (1900-30s) is probably the one that fascinates me the most, whether it’s in discovering another regular venue, learning about another boxing club/gym, or trying to get my head around the logistics of boxers travelling by ship to different continents to fight for world titles.
Like with many stories of this period there is a sad ending, with Baldock ending his life alone and penniless in 1971. He is, though, one of the few boxers in this country honoured with a sculpture which you can visit in Poplar.
If you’re not already aware of their work, please follow this link and consider supporting the Ringside Charitable Trust, who are aiming to set up a reliable support network to provide help to former boxers, whether that be because of financial trouble or failing health.
Writers on Boxing 
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