Curtis Sheppard

Who is Curtis Sheppard?

Curtis Sheppard is a former American boxer who was from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Sheppard was a popular fighter during the 1940s, especially when television technology arrived in his homeland during the late years of that decade. His nickname was "The Hatchetman." As was common during his era, no records of his birthdate, or his death date, are kept.

Sheppard never received a world title shot. He was what in boxing is described as a "journeyman." However, his career had many ups and downs, which made him an interesting boxer for fans to watch. The February 2005 issue of Ring magazine, described him as a "gatekeeper," a fighter who stood in the way of other boxers seeking a title shot.

Sheppard began his career as a professional boxer on September 24, 1938, knocking out Larry White in the first round at Madison Square Garden. His first defeat was on November 1 of that year, against Danny Peal, by decision. Sheppard would win four fights in a row, including one against Herbie Katz, who had an immediate rematch, with Sheppard's winning streak stopped at four, when Katz beat him by decision.

In his next fight, November 18, 1939, Sheppard met the future world Heavyweight champion Jersey Joe Walcott. Sheppard lost that fight by an eight round decision.