Teddy Baldock: The Pride of Poplar [Paperback]

Author Brian Belton skilfully tells the tale of a tough, talented and heroic fighter . . . A rollercoaster ride from rags to riches to rags, we should be thankful that Teddy Baldock's tale and legacy wasn't lost forever. Highly recommended. --Men's World

An excellent book . . . detailing the many highs and lows of the life of former British and Commonwealth (British Empire) champion Teddy Baldock. --Boxing News

Teddy Baldock is enshrined in the record books as Britain's youngest ever world boxing champion. His brilliant skills and colourful style saw him fight in such famous venues as Madison Square Gardens and on the same cards as the likes of James J. Braddock (the 'Cinderella Man'). At 19, the Pride of Poplar defeated the USA's Archie Bell at the Royal Albert Hall for the World bantamweight title in one of the greatest bouts between boxing's little men. He would never know such heights again, although, after he retired from a distinguished career of over 80 fights, he remained a hero in the East End long after his heyday in the ring. Teddy's story is the stuff of legend; in his prime, his fame was such that he rubbed shoulders with dukes and earls and the Prince of Wales asked to shake his hand. In 1971, however, he died penniless in an Essex infirmary; he didn't even have his own pyjamas. The man who had thrilled packed boxing arenas was completely forgotten ... until the publication of Teddy Baldock, the Pride of Poplar. Now, in this revised and expanded edition, the author illuminates such poignant historical details as Jack Dempsey's regard for Baldock. For the American world heavyweight remains a legend to this day, while the plucky little Englishman he admired died in destitute obscurity . . .

Dr Brian Belton is one of Britain's most prolific authors, having written more than 20 sports titles. He has written Teddy Baldock, the Pride of Poplar with the assistance of the late champion's grandson, Martin Sax, who made a unique archive of biographical and photographic materials available to the author.