Australia has a long and proud history of boxing, with some of the best boxers in the world having come from this country. From the early days of Jack Johnson to the recent success of Jeff Horn and Anthony Mundine, there have been many standout fighters from the land down under.
We’ll take a look at some of the best boxers to come out of Australia, along with a few of the more promising up-and-coming prospects. From heavyweight champions to Olympic gold medalists, these are the top boxers from Australia.
1. Kostya Tszyu
Konstantin Borisovich “Kostya” Tszyu is a renowned professional boxer who has competed in the sport since 1992. He is a Russian Australian who has achieved great success in the light-welterweight category, becoming an undisputed champion in the division.
During his career, he held multiple world championships in this weight class, including the undisputed and lineal titles from 2001 through 2005.
He was successful for a long period of time and made a name for himself as one of the best light-welterweight boxers of his generation. Kostya Tszyu’s career was highlighted by his multiple world titles, which he won following impressive wins against some of the most respected fighters in the world.
He was known for his technical excellence and outstanding footwork, which allowed him to outmaneuver and outclass his opponents.
His career was also marked by his hard training and dedication to the sport, which helped him to achieve success at the highest level. Kostya Tszyu’s legacy in the sport of boxing will live on for many years to come.
He was one of the best light-welterweight fighters in the world and his achievements in the ring will be remembered for a long time. He will be remembered for his undeniable skill, his hard work, and his dedication to the sport.
Kostya Tszyu will always be remembered for his remarkable career and his accomplishments in the sport of boxing.
2. Jeff Fenech
Jeff Fenech is one of Australia’s most decorated boxers. He had a professional career that spanned over two decades, from 1984 to 2008. During this time, he achieved a remarkable feat – he won world titles in three different weight divisions.
In 1985, Fenech captured the International Boxing Federation (IBF) bantamweight title. He held this title for two years until 1987. During this time, he managed to defend his title four times.
One year later, in 1988, Fenech secured the World Boxing Council (WBC) super-bantamweight title. He defended this title twice before eventually relinquishing it in 1990.
That same year, Fenech won the WBC featherweight title, which he successfully defended twice during his two-year reign.
In total, Fenech held three world titles in three different weight divisions over the course of his career, an accomplishment that is a testament to his skill and determination. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
3. Lionel Rose
Lionel Edmund Rose MBE was an Australian professional boxer who had a successful career spanning from 1964 to 1976. During this time, he accomplished a noteworthy feat by becoming the first Indigenous Australian to win a world title.
In 1968, he won the undisputed WBA, WBC, and The Ring bantamweight titles, which he held until 1969.
His victory was celebrated by many people in Australia, as it was a groundbreaking moment for Indigenous Australians and their recognition in the sports world. Rose was born in Warragul, Victoria, in 1948, and began his boxing career at the age of 16.
Despite being relatively small for a boxer, he was a powerful and well-rounded fighter.
He won a number of amateur and professional titles throughout his career, including the Australian, Commonwealth, Oriental, and British Empire bantamweight titles. Rose’s world title victory in 1968 was a historic moment for the Indigenous Australian community.
It was a major step forward in terms of their recognition in professional sports, and it highlighted the potential of Indigenous Australians in the world of boxing.
Rose was recognized for his achievements with numerous awards, including an MBE in 1970. Rose retired from professional boxing in 1976, but his legacy remains. He is remembered as an inspirational figure for Indigenous Australians, as well as a great boxer.
His story continues to be an inspiration to many, and his legacy lives on in the hearts of everyone who was touched by his remarkable career.
4. Jeff Harding
Jeff Harding is a name that is well known in the world of boxing. The Australian athlete was the world champion in the sport for several years.
His nickname was “Hit Man” due to his ferocious punching style and powerful jabs that earned him the title of world champion. As a boxer, Jeff Harding was known for his skill and precision in the ring.
He had a great ability to calculate the distance between himself and his opponent, allowing him to effectively land his punches while also evading his opponents.
He was also known for his ability to absorb and endure punishment, often coming back stronger after a few rounds. Harding’s career in boxing saw him win several titles, including the WBA Super Middleweight Title, the IBF Super Middleweight Title, and the WBC Middleweight Title.
During his time in the ring, he fought against some of the greatest boxers of his day, such as Sugar Ray Leonard, Thomas Hearns, and Roberto Duran. Jeff Harding has now retired from boxing, but his legacy as “Hit Man” continues to live on.
He is remembered for being one of the greatest boxers to ever come out of Australia, and his style of boxing is still admired by many.
5. Anthony Mundine
Anthony Mundine Jr. is a well-known figure in the sports world. He is an Australian former professional boxer and rugby league footballer. His professional boxing career spanned from 2000 to 2021, and during this time he achieved great success.
He is a two-time world champion, having held the WBA super-middleweight title twice between 2003 and 2008. Mundine began boxing in 2000 and quickly rose to prominence in the sport.
He won his first belt in 2003 when he defeated Antwun Echols to become the IBF middleweight champion. The following year, he successfully defended his title against Sam Soliman and successfully moved up to the super-middleweight division.
In 2005, he defeated Anthony Van Niekerk to win the WBA super-middleweight title. He held this title until 2008 when he lost it to Mikkel Kessler. Mundine is also a former rugby league footballer, having played for the St George Illawarra Dragons in the NRL from 2000 to 2008.
He was a very successful player, and he was named the Dally M Rookie of the Year in 2000. He also represented Australia in the Rugby League World Cup in 2000 and 2008. Throughout his sporting career, Anthony Mundine Jr. has achieved great success in both boxing and rugby league.
He is a two-time world champion in boxing, and he is a former rugby league footballer. He is a great example of someone who has achieved success in both sports, and he is an inspiration to many aspiring athletes.
6. Les Darcy
James Leslie Darcy was an Australian boxer with great skill and talent. He was primarily a middleweight boxer, but at the same time managed to win the Australian Heavyweight Championship title.
His accomplishments were recognized and celebrated in 2003 when he was inducted into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame Old Timers category. This was a huge honor for Leslie Darcy, as he was the first to be elevated to Legend status in 2009.
Through this honor, his legacy in the sport of boxing was cemented. Leslie Darcy was well-known for his skill and technique in the sport, as well as his kindness and friendly demeanor. He was a beloved figure in the sport and was remembered fondly by those who knew him.
He was also known for his courage and determination, which were major components of his boxing success.
Les Darcy’s accomplishments in the sport of boxing were numerous, and his induction into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame was a testament to his skill and dedication.
He was the first person to be elevated to Legend status, and his legacy will live on in the sport for years to come. His impact on boxing will never be forgotten, and he will always be remembered as one of the greatest boxers in Australian history.
7. Johnny Famechon
Jean-Pierre Famechon AM was a well-respected and accomplished Australian featherweight boxer.
He was inducted into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003, receiving the highest accolade when he was elevated to Legend status in 2012. Famechon was born in France in 1945 and moved to Australia at the age of nine.
He began boxing at the age of 16 and quickly rose to become one of the most successful featherweight boxers in Australia.
He was the featherweight champion of Australia from 1969 to 1974, and he also held the Commonwealth featherweight title from 1971 to 1973. Famechon’s career was marked with numerous successes, including an Olympic bronze medal in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, as well as a silver medal in the 1970 Commonwealth Games in Edinburgh.
He was also the first Australian boxer to win a European title, capturing the European featherweight title in 1972. Famechon’s successes in the ring were recognized in 2003 when he was inducted into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame in the Moderns category.
In 2012, he was the third boxer to be elevated to Legend status, an honour that is bestowed upon only the most accomplished and successful boxers in Australia. Famechon has been a part of the boxing world for over 50 years, and his accomplishments remain a testament to his dedication and commitment to the sport.
He is a true legend of Australian boxing, and his legacy continues to inspire future generations of boxers.
8. Vic Darchinyan
Vakhtang “Vic” Darchinyan is a retired professional boxer from Armenia. He had a successful career lasting from 2000 to 2017, in which he won multiple world championships at two different weight classes.
In 2004, Darchinyan won the IBF flyweight title, which he held for three years until 2007. Later, between 2008 and 2010, he won the WBA, WBC, IBF and lineal super-flyweight titles, becoming the first boxer to hold all four titles simultaneously.
Darchinyan’s career achievements have earned him a great deal of respect in the boxing world, and he is remembered as one of the greatest Armenian boxers of all time.
9. Dave Sands
Dave Sands was an Indigenous Australian boxer who was well-known for his left hand. He was highly respected for his boxing ability, yet he never won a world title. However, in 1998, he was recognised for his accomplishments and was inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame.
The ceremony was held in Los Angeles, the city of his greatest triumphs, and he was referred to as the “boxer with the educated left hand”. This honor was long overdue for Dave Sands.
He had an impressive career in the ring, having won several titles, including the Australian Middleweight Title, West Australian Middleweight Title, and the British Empire Middleweight Title.
Despite not winning a world title, he was considered one of the greatest boxers of all time and was respected by his peers. His boxing style was unique and his left hand was particularly accurate and powerful.
Dave Sands had a long and successful career in the ring and was a popular figure in the boxing world. He was a role model for many Indigenous Australians and was a source of inspiration to them.
His induction into the World Boxing Hall of Fame was a fitting tribute to a man who had done so much for the sport and for his people. His legacy will live on for many generations to come.
10. Lester Ellis
Lester Ellis is an acclaimed British-born Australian former professional boxer. He has been a five-time world champion and held both the Australian and Commonwealth titles.
In 1985, when Ellis was only 19, he achieved a major career milestone by beating the then-reigning IBF super featherweight champion Hwan-Kil Yuh. Ellis fought for fifteen rounds in order to secure a win against a formidable opponent.
The victory was a testament to Ellis’s formidable boxing skills and determination to succeed. He has since been recognized as one of the finest boxers to come out of the country and is an inspiration to aspiring boxers everywhere.
11. Rocky Mattioli
Rocky Mattioli is an Italian-born Australian former boxer who has had an impressive career. He was a junior middleweight and former world champion.
His record and accomplishments have been recognized in 2004 when he was inducted into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame in the Moderns category. This honor is a testament to his outstanding achievements in the world of boxing.
He is highly respected in the boxing world and his contributions to the sport are undeniable. Mattioli has been an inspiration to many aspiring boxers and his legacy will live on for many years to come.
12. George Kambosos Jr
George Kambosos Jr is an Australian professional boxer with an impressive record in the sport. He is a four-time world champion, having held the WBA, IBF, WBO and The Ring lightweight titles from 2021 to 2022.
This is an impressive feat, as it shows his consistency and skills in the ring. Additionally, he is currently the IBO lightweight world champion. Kambosos Jr is one of the most decorated and skilled boxers in the world today, and his success in the sport speaks for itself.
He has earned the admiration and respect of boxing fans around the world and is a great role model for aspiring professional boxers.
13. Tim Tszyu
Timofei Konstantinovich Tszyu is an Australian professional boxer from a renowned boxing family. His father, Kostya Tszyu, is a former light-welterweight world champion, while his younger brother, Nikita Tszyu, is an up-and-coming boxer.
Timofei has been a professional boxer since March 2023 and is currently the holder of the World Boxing Organization interim light-middleweight title. Timofei has been a driving force in the Tszyu family’s boxing legacy, following in the footsteps of his father, Kostya, who won the light-welterweight world title in the late 1990s.
His younger brother, Nikita, has also found success in the sport, with a promising career ahead of him. Timofei has been a successful boxer in his own right, having held the World Boxing Organization interim light-middleweight title since March 2023.
He has been a regular fixture in the boxing world, competing in numerous professional fights and showing his skill and determination in the ring. The Tszyu family have been a major presence in the boxing world for many years, and the legacy of Kostya Tszyu has been carried on by his sons Timofei and Nikita.
Both Timofei and Nikita have made a name for themselves in the sport, with Timofei’s impressive championship title and Nikita’s up-and-coming career. It is clear that the Tszyu family legacy will remain strong for many years to come.
14. Jai Opetaia
Jai Opetaia is an Australian professional boxer who has achieved great success in the ring. He has held the International Boxing Federation (IBF) and the Ring magazine cruiserweight titles since 2022, making him one of the most decorated boxers in the world.
His amateur career was also impressive, as he won a bronze medal at the 2012 Youth World Championships and represented Australia at the 2012 Olympics and 2014 Commonwealth Games.
As a professional boxer, Opetaia has been undefeated and continues to be a dominant force in the sport. He is a true champion in every sense of the word and an inspiration to many aspiring boxers across the globe.
15. Jeffrey Horn
Jeffrey Christopher Horn Jr. is a former professional boxer from Australia who had an impressive career that spanned from 2013 to 2020.
During this time, Horn was able to accomplish a great feat in winning the WBO Welterweight Title in 2017 and retaining it until 2018. Before his professional career, Horn was an accomplished amateur boxer who competed in the 2012 Olympics, representing Australia.
He was able to make it to the quarterfinals of the light-welterweight bracket, making it an impressive feat for the young athlete. Horn’s career in professional boxing saw him fight numerous bouts and he was able to win many of them by knockout.
He had a successful career and was able to make a name for himself in the boxing world. The former professional boxer now spends his time coaching boxing and is a motivational speaker sharing his story of success with others.
He is an inspiration to many and is a great example of what hard work and dedication can bring.
16. Daniel Geale
Daniel Geale is a former professional boxer from Australia who had a very successful career in the sport. He was active from 2004 to 2016 and during that time, he achieved many accomplishments.
In 2011 and 2013, he held the unified WBA and IBF middleweight titles, and prior to that, from 2007 to 2009, he held the IBO middleweight title. Geale also had a successful amateur boxing career, winning a welterweight gold medal at the 2002 Commonwealth Games.
His achievements during his professional and amateur boxing career demonstrate his talent and skill as a boxer.
17. Justis Huni
Justis Huni is an accomplished athlete from Australia. A professional boxer, Huni has held the Australian heavyweight title since 2020. Before turning pro, Huni was an amateur champion and earned a bronze medal at the 2019 World Championships in the heavyweight division.
This accomplishment is particularly impressive, as the World Championships are considered one of the most prestigious amateur boxing tournaments in the world. Huni’s meteoric rise in the boxing world has been impressive to say the least, and he shows no signs of slowing down.
His dedication to the sport is evident, and his success speaks for itself. It is clear that Huni is on the path to becoming one of the best professional boxers in the world, and his success so far is a testament to his hard work and dedication.
18. Andrew Moloney
Andrew Moloney is an impressive professional boxer who has achieved great success in his career. He currently holds the WBA super-flyweight title, a title he has held since 2019.
Before that, he won the WBA Oceania bantamweight title from 2016 to 2017, and the Commonwealth super-flyweight title in 2017. This demonstrates his ability to rise to the top and prove himself in a number of different weight classes.
His consistent success is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport and he remains a formidable opponent in the boxing world.
19. Young Griffo
Albert Griffiths, popularly known as Young Griffo, was a renowned boxer who held the World Featherweight championship title from 1890 to 1892.
He is widely regarded as one of the earliest boxing world champions in any class and has been highly praised by Nat Fleischer, the founder of Ring magazine.
Fleischer ranked Griffo as the eighth greatest featherweight of all time, further cementing his place in boxing history. Griffo began his career in 1885 and quickly rose to prominence as he earned victory after victory.
He was renowned for his ability to dodge and avoid his opponents’ punches, as well as his quick counter-punching technique. He was also known for his powerful left hand, which allowed him to land decisive blows in the heat of battle.
He won many fights over the years and eventually captured the World Featherweight title in 1890. His reign as champion was short-lived however, as he was defeated by Jack Skelly in 1892.
Despite his loss, Young Griffo had already established himself as one of the greatest featherweight boxers in history. His legacy has been further immortalized in Ring magazine, where he is ranked among the greatest featherweight boxers of all time.
20. Jimmy Carruthers
James William Carruthers was an Australian boxer who enjoyed a successful career in the ring. He is best known for becoming world champion in the bantamweight division, a feat that earned him recognition and accolades not only in his home country but also internationally.
Jimmy’s success was further recognized in 2009 when he was inducted into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame in the Veterans category. This honor was a testament to his achievements in the sport, as well as his influence and impact on the sport of boxing.
Jimmy’s rise to the top of the bantamweight division was no easy feat. He worked hard and trained diligently in order to reach his goals. He was also focused and determined, which enabled him to succeed and become a world champion.
His commitment to excellence in the sport was an inspiration to aspiring boxers, and his accomplishments will always be remembered. Overall, Jimmy William Carruthers was a remarkable boxer who achieved great success in the sport.
His legacy will live on for generations to come and he will always be remembered as a world champion and a respected member of the Australian boxing community.
21. Shannon O’Connell
Shannon O’Connell is an Australian professional boxer who is widely known as “Shotgun Shannon” and “The Queen of Australian Boxing”. Shannon made a name for herself in 2013 when she won the WBF female featherweight world title.
This was an impressive feat for any boxer, let alone a female one. However, her reign was short-lived as she soon suffered a crushing TKO loss at the hands of Ebanie Bridges.
Despite this unfortunate loss, Shannon O’Connell will always be remembered as one of the greatest female boxers to ever come out of Australia. She was an inspiration to many, showing that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
22. Taylah Robertson
Taylah Robertson is a professional boxer from Australia. She has had a successful career, achieving great heights as an amateur boxer. Her biggest accomplishment was winning a bronze medal at the 2018 Commonwealth Games.
This was a remarkable achievement, as she competed against some of the best boxers in the world. Robertson’s accomplishment is even more impressive when you consider that she had only been boxing for two years prior to competing at the Commonwealth Games.
She worked hard to develop her skills as a boxer and was rewarded with a medal for her efforts. In addition to her Commonwealth medal, Robertson has also won several state and national championships in Australia.
She has also achieved success in international competitions, including the AIBA Women’s World Boxing Championships.
Her hard work and dedication have earned her a spot as one of Australia’s most successful female boxers. Taylah Robertson is an inspiration to aspiring athletes around the world. She has shown that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.
Her success is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance.
23. Harry Garside
Harrison Garside is a remarkable individual who excels in both boxing and plumbing. In 2020, he made history by becoming the first Australian boxer in over thirty years to win a medal at the Summer Olympics.
His bronze medal victory in the men’s lightweight event is a testament to his dedication and determination to succeed. Garside’s success was hard-earned. He put in countless hours of training, competing in multiple tournaments in the lead up to the Olympics.
His determination and commitment to the sport paid off, and his talent and skill were finally rewarded with a podium finish. This victory marks a significant turning point for Australian boxing. Garside’s success is an inspiration to those of all ages.
He has shown that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. His bronze medal win is a symbol of hope and a reminder that anything is achievable with the right mindset. Harrison Garside is a symbol of hope and resilience.
He has proven that it is possible to excel in two completely different fields and that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. His bronze medal win is a reminder that success is possible, no matter the odds.
24. Danny Green
Daniel Thomas Green is a former Australian professional boxer who achieved significant success over the course of his career. He held the WBA light-heavyweight title from 2007 to 2008, a feat that takes an immense amount of skill and dedication.
In addition to this, Green also held the IBO cruiserweight title twice between 2009 and 2013, and the WBC interim super-middleweight title from 2003 to 2005. These accomplishments speak volumes about the talent and hard work that Green put into his boxing career.
He was a dedicated and passionate boxer who achieved an impressive level of success, making him a true legend of Australian boxing.
25. Michael Katsidis
Michael Alan Katsidis is a renowned former professional boxer from Australia. He made a mark in the boxing world by competing from 2001 to 2017. He was successful in his career, becoming the WBO interim lightweight title holder from 2007 to 2010.
This remarkable feat was even more impressive considering he challenged twice for the lineal lightweight title in 2008 and 2010. His achievements in the sport are remarkable and have earned him the respect of his peers and fans alike.
Katsidis is considered one of the greatest boxers to come out of Australia. His accomplishments in the ring show his dedication to the sport. He has made a name for himself as a tough fighter who always gave it his all in the ring.
Even when he lost, he still persevered and always tried to come back stronger. His courage and determination have inspired many young boxers to follow in his footsteps and strive for greatness.
Katsidis’ career has been an impressive one, and he has certainly left a lasting legacy on the boxing world. He will always be remembered as a powerful and determined boxer who pushed himself to the limit. He was not afraid to take risks and always fought for glory.
Michael Alan Katsidis will forever be remembered as one of the greatest boxers to ever come out of Australia.
26. Floyd Masson
Floyd Masson is a professional boxer from New Zealand and Australia. He has achieved an impressive feat by becoming the IBO World Cruiserweight Champion after defeating Italian boxer Fabio Turchi in April 2023.
This victory was a result of Masson’s hard work and dedication to the sport, as well as his impressive boxing skills. Masson’s road to the title was not easy. He trained rigorously for months leading up to the fight and was determined to make a statement.
His hard work paid off, as he was able to execute a strategy that overwhelmed his opponent and secured the victory. The fight itself was an exciting affair, with both fighters displaying a high level of skill and athleticism.
Masson was able to use his superior speed and agility to outmaneuver Turchi, and eventually land the decisive punches to secure the win.
His victory was a testament to his resilience and commitment to the sport of boxing, and he has rightfully earned the title of IBO World Cruiserweight Champion. Masson has achieved a great milestone and is now in the history books.
He is now an inspiration to other aspiring boxers, and his name will be remembered for many years to come. His win over Fabio Turchi is sure to be talked about for years, and Masson’s legacy will live on as one of the greatest boxers of all time.
27. Tony Mundine
Anthony William Mundine OAM is an Australian former boxer and one of the country’s most accomplished Indigenous fighters. He was born in 1972 in New South Wales and began his sporting career as a rugby league player. After playing for the St.
George Dragons and the Brisbane Broncos, he transitioned to boxing in 2000. Mundine has since established himself as one of Australia’s most successful boxers, having won the World Boxing Association super-middleweight title in 2003 and the interim WBA middleweight championship in 2009.
He has also competed at the highest levels in the sport, having taken part in the World Boxing Council, International Boxing Federation and the World Boxing Organization. In addition to his many successes in the ring, Mundine has also been an advocate for Indigenous rights in Australia.
He has spoken out against racism and advocated for greater recognition of Indigenous cultures.
He has also set up a number of charities and initiatives to benefit the Indigenous community, including the Mundine Foundation which provides educational opportunities for Indigenous youth. Through his accomplishments in the ring and his work outside of it, Anthony William Mundine OAM has become one of Australia’s most accomplished Indigenous fighters.
He has earned the respect of both his peers and the wider public for his dedication to his sport and his commitment to improving the lives of Indigenous Australians.
28. Snowy Baker
Reginald Leslie “Snowy” Baker was an accomplished Australian sportsman and entertainer. He was born in Surry Hills, a neighborhood in the greater Sydney area of New South Wales. As a teenage athlete, he was a formidable competitor in a number of sports.
He won both the New South Wales swimming and boxing championships during this time. Baker was a highly motivated individual and had the drive and natural ability to become a successful athlete.
He had a particular talent for swimming and was known for his powerful strokes and speed. He was also a strong boxer and was able to capitalize on his strength and agility.
His athleticism was only matched by his enthusiasm and competitive spirit. He was also a gifted promoter and actor. He was involved in the development of modern surfing and was responsible for popularizing the sport in Australia.
He also organized a number of boxing tournaments and was an advocate for the sport in Australia.
Baker also made a number of appearances in films, most notably his roles in the silent films The Curse of the Claw and The Kangaroo. Baker’s impressive accomplishments as an athlete and entertainer have earned him a place in the history of Australian sport.
He is remembered for his enthusiasm and competitive spirit, as well as his dedication to promoting and popularizing sports in Australia. His legacy lives on, and he continues to inspire future generations of athletes and entertainers.
29. Henry Nissen
Henry Nissen OAM is an extraordinary athlete who achieved great success in the world of boxing. He was an amateur flyweight and professional fly/bantam/featherweight boxer in the 1960s and ’70s.
During his amateur career, he represented Australia in numerous matches and achieved the impressive feat of winning the gold medal at flyweight.
He also achieved success in professional boxing, competing in different weight divisions and accumulating a total of 38 wins, 15 losses, and one draw. Nissen was born in Melbourne, Australia in 1945.
He first began boxing in 1960, and his impressive amateur career saw him represent Australia in numerous international competitions. He won the gold medal at flyweight in the 1962 British Empire and Commonwealth Games, held in Perth, Australia.
He also competed at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan, where he represented Australia in the flyweight division. Nissen turned professional in 1966 and had a successful career as a professional boxer.
He fought in the fly, bantam, and featherweight divisions, with a total of 38 wins, 15 losses, and one draw. He held the Australian featherweight title from 1969 to 1971, and the Australian lightweight title from 1972 to 1973.
He also fought for the British Commonwealth featherweight title and the British Empire lightweight title. Nissen retired from professional boxing in 1973, but his legacy continues to live on.
In recognition of his outstanding accomplishments, he was awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 1993. He is a highly respected figure in the Australian boxing world, and his impressive record and impressive achievements will never be forgotten.
30. Vic Patrick
Victor Patrick Lucca was an Australian professional boxer and referee. He was born into a family of oyster farmers and began boxing in 1940 to earn some extra money. To keep his mother from finding out, he fought under the name Alf Edwards.
His career was off to a strong start, as he won his first 18 bouts, with 17 of them being by knockout. This showed that he had a powerful punch that could take down any opponent. He was a fierce competitor and proved to be a successful boxer and referee.
31. Bowie Tupou
Suliasi Tupou Ahio, better known as Bowie Tupou, is a professional boxer from Australia. Tupou has been successful in his career, achieving a ranking of 13th in the World Boxing Organization (WBO) after winning the WBO African title in March 2015.
His victory was against Hunter Sam and earned him the title. However, his reign as WBO African champion was short-lived, as he lost the title to Joseph Parker in August 2015.
Despite this setback, Tupou has remained a successful boxer and has continued to compete in various matches. His career achievements are a testament to his dedication and hard work in the sport of boxing.
32. Herb Narvo
Hermann Olaf Frances “Herb” Narvo was an Australian sportsman of great renown in the 1930s and 1940s. He was a highly successful rugby league footballer and a national heavyweight boxing champion.
His accomplishments in both sports were truly remarkable, and he is widely regarded as one of the finest athletes of the twentieth century. In rugby league, Narvo was a national representative player that was widely respected for his skill and athleticism.
He was a powerful and dynamic player in attack, and his defensive capabilities were just as impressive.
He was known for his dedication and commitment to the sport and was highly regarded by his teammates and opponents alike. Narvo was also a successful boxer, and he became the national heavyweight boxing champion in 1940.
He was an aggressive fighter with a solid punch that could knock out opponents. He was a very popular figure in the boxing world, and his bouts were always well-attended. Narvo’s legacy as one of the greatest sportsmen of the twentieth century is undeniable.
He set high standards for himself and for others, and his accomplishments are a testament to his talent and dedication. He is remembered as a great athlete who made the most of his talents, and his contributions to the sports of rugby league and boxing will never be forgotten.
33. Alex Leapai
Elise Leapai is a former professional boxer who has a unique background. He was born in Samoa, but he is of Australian descent. His career peak was a fight against Wladimir Klitschko in 2014, for the WBA, IBF, WBO, IBO, The Ring magazine and lineal heavyweight titles.
This fight was an important milestone in his career and his achievement was widely praised. Leapai is known for his power and determination, which enabled him to take on the legendary Klitschko.
He was the first boxer from Australia to challenge for a world heavyweight title in a century. This was a remarkable accomplishment which further cemented his legacy. Despite coming up short against Klitschko, Leapai’s career was still an impressive one.
He won numerous regional titles, and he was the WBO Oriental heavyweight champion. In his prime, he was a formidable force in the boxing ring. He was also known for his strong work ethic and commitment to training, which allowed him to reach such heights.
Elise Leapai’s career highlights is a testament of his dedication and skill. His impressive record speaks for itself, and he will always be remembered as a great boxer. He is an inspiration to aspiring boxers, and his career will be fondly remembered by fans of the sport.
34. Jim Hall
Montague James Furlong, more commonly known as Jim Hall, was an Australian middleweight boxer. He was born in Australia in 1887 and began his boxing career the same year. After a successful start, he quickly rose to prominence and won the Australian middleweight title in 1887.
This victory propelled him to the forefront of the boxing world and gave him the confidence to pursue the World title from Jack Dempsey. In pursuit of his dream, Jim Hall moved to the United States in the late 1800s, hoping to take the World title from the great Jack Dempsey.
While his attempt was unsuccessful, Hall was still a respected figure in the boxing world and eventually returned to Australia to retire from the sport. He died in 1933 and his legacy lives on today as one of the greatest Australian boxers of all time.
35. Jerry Jerome
Jerry Jerome was a descendent of the local Yiman people, born at Jimbour Homestead near Dalby. His father, Wollon Charles, was an Aboriginal laborer, while his mother was Guli. In 1906, Jerome chose to make a lifelong commitment to Alice Davis, and the two married.
It was a special moment for the two families and a way for Jerome to honour the people from whom he descended. As a descendant of the Yiman people, his marriage to Alice was a way to bring together his two cultures and to honour his ancestors.
Jerome and Alice created a strong bond that would stand the test of time and serve as an example of love and commitment.
36. Barry Michael
Barry Michael was an Australian professional boxer who was at the peak of his career during the 1980s. He is particularly remembered for his fight against Lester Ellis in 1985, which was broadcast nationwide on television in Australia.
This fight was considered a highlight of Michael’s career and brought him widespread recognition. Michael was known for his aggressive technique and power punches, which allowed him to gain an edge on opponents.
He was an incredibly accomplished boxer, having won the Australian lightweight championship and a number of other titles during his career. He was also a two-time Commonwealth lightweight champion.
Aside from his boxing career, Michael was also an actor and appeared in a number of movies and television shows. He also wrote two books about his life and career in the ring.
Michael eventually retired from the sport in 1990 and has since been inducted into the Australian National Boxing Hall of Fame.
Despite his retirement, Michael remains a well-known figure in the boxing world and is remembered for his exemplary skills and accomplishments during his career.
37. Lucas Browne
Lucas Browne is a well-known Australian boxer who has had a long and successful career in the sport. He has been a professional boxer since 2007 and has also competed in mixed martial arts and kickboxing.
In 2016, Browne made history when he became the first Australian to be crowned WBA heavyweight champion. He achieved this feat when he defeated the Russian boxer Ruslan Chagaev in a match that lasted just six rounds.
Browne is also known for his impressive knockouts, as he has recorded several impressive KO victories during his career. With his impressive resume, it is no surprise that Browne is one of the most respected boxers in the world.
His impressive career is something that all aspiring boxers should look up to for inspiration.
38. Michael Zerafa
Michael Zerafa is an Australian professional boxer who has achieved a great deal of success in his career. He was crowned the Commonwealth light middleweight champion in 2018, a title that is in high regard in the boxing world.
Zerafa has been boxing professionally since 2013 and has since gone on to build an impressive record of 28 wins, 5 losses and 2 draws. He has faced some of the toughest contenders in the sport, including former world champions Peter Quillin and Kell Brook.
Zerafa is a talented boxer with a well-rounded skill set that allows him to be effective both in the ring and out. He has established himself as a force to be reckoned with in the light middleweight division.
His success in the ring has earned him recognition and respect from fans and peers alike.
39. Zac Dunn
Zac Dunn is a professional boxer from Australia who currently holds a very prestigious title. He is the current WBC International Silver Super middleweight champion and a former IBO World champion.
Dunn has achieved a high level of success in the boxing world and is widely recognized for his skill and talent. Dunn is a hardworking athlete who has earned his current accolades through dedication and determination.
He has a strong work ethic and a passion for the sport of boxing. His commitment to excellence has resulted in him becoming a top-level boxer in the world. Dunn’s WBC International Silver Super middleweight championship is a highly sought-after title in the boxing world.
The title is considered to be one of the most prestigious awards in the sport, and Dunn is the current champion. This title has given Dunn recognition and respect among his peers and fans alike.The IBO World champion title is also a highly regarded title in the boxing world.
Dunn is a former IBO World champion, a prestigious title that has been held by many of the top boxers in the world.
He has been recognized for his accomplishments in this division and is respected for his amazing abilities. Overall, Zac Dunn is a highly accomplished professional boxer from Australia.
He has achieved a great deal of success in the sport and has been recognized for his skill and talent. He is the current WBC International Silver Super middleweight champion and a former IBO World champion, two highly regarded titles in the boxing world.
Dunn is an athlete who has earned his accolades through dedication and determination, and his commitment to excellence has resulted in him becoming a top-level boxer in the world.
40. Jason Moloney
Jason Moloney is an impressive and talented Australian professional boxer. He is currently the WBO bantamweight world champion, a title he has held since 2019.
He has also been challenged twice for the IBF bantamweight title, although he has been unsuccessful in his attempts to win it. In addition to his world-level success, he has also achieved regional-level success.
Since 2017, he has held the WBA Oceania bantamweight title and he held the Commonwealth bantamweight title in 2018. His success across different levels highlights his talent as a boxer and his dedication to the sport. He is certainly a boxer to watch in the future.
41. Kali Meehan
Kalivati Gerald Meehan is an Australian professional boxer of Fijian descent. He is an inspiration to all, having made a successful transition from a career in rugby league to professional boxing.
He is the father of the rugby league and boxing player Willis Meehan, showing that the love of the sport has been passed down from generation to generation. Kalivati, known as Gerry, had a successful rugby league career before making the switch to boxing.
He was a standout player and his physical size and strength made him a formidable opponent on the field. After playing rugby league for a number of years, he decided to focus on boxing and become a professional. Gerry was born in Fiji but moved to Australia at a young age.
He was always passionate about sports, and this led him to pursue a career in rugby league. When he turned pro after retiring from rugby league, he made a successful transition as a boxer.
He had the same physical size and strength that made him such a formidable opponent on the field. Gerry’s son, Willis Meehan, has followed in his father’s footsteps.
He plays rugby league and boxes, showing that the love of the sport has been passed down from generation to generation.
Willis has also made a successful transition from rugby league to boxing, and he has proven to be a formidable opponent in the ring. Kalivati Gerald Meehan is a true inspiration to all.
His story of transitioning from rugby league to professional boxing is an example of the hard work and dedication that it takes to reach one’s goal. His son’s successful journey in the same sport shows that the passion can be passed down through the generations.
42. Billy Dib
Bilal Dib, professionally known as Billy Dib, is an accomplished Australian professional boxer. He is recognized for having held two world titles during his career. In 2008, Dib became the IBO super-featherweight champion after defeating fellow Australian Naoufel Ben Rabah.
He successfully defended his title three times before vacating it in 2009. In 2011, Dib made history by becoming the first Australian to hold a world featherweight title when he won the IBF belt from Mexican boxer Jorge Lacierva.
He went on to defend the title three times before losing it in 2013 to Evgeny Gradovich. Throughout his career, Dib has also held regional titles and has won 31 out of his 41 professional fights, with 14 of his wins coming by way of knockout.
His dedication and hard work have made him a respected figure in the sport, and his accomplishments have earned him a place in Australian boxing history.
43. Renold Quinlan
Renold Vatubua Quinlan is an accomplished professional boxer from Australia. He is of Indigenous and Fijian descent and has achieved great success in his career. In 2016, he won the IBO super-middleweight title, a prestigious title in the world of boxing.
He held on to that title for a year, until 2017. His most famous moment was when he knocked out former world champion Daniel Geale in a stunning victory. This demonstrated his skill and power and established him as one of the top contenders in his weight class.
Quinlan’s accomplishments as a boxer have made him a respected figure in Australian boxing, and his fame has spread outside of the country.
His success has made him an example for Indigenous and Fijian athletes everywhere, showing that with hard work and dedication anything is possible.
44. Lawrence Tauasa
Lawrence Tauasa is an accomplished boxer from Sydney, Australia. He is of Samoan heritage and is a former professional boxer who competed in the cruiserweight division.
He is a former Australian cruiserweight champion and competed on the fourth season of the boxing reality show, The Contender. Tauasa has achieved a lot in his boxing career and continues to be a well-known figure in the Australian and international boxing community.
Tauasa first began boxing in 2005, and since then he has been a formidable opponent in the cruiserweight division. In 2006, he won the Australian cruiserweight championship, and in 2007, he was a contestant on the fourth season of The Contender, a boxing reality show.
During his stint on the show, he managed to win five out of his seven fights and was eventually eliminated in the quarterfinals. Since then, Tauasa has continued to compete in the cruiserweight division and remains to be one of the most visible figures in the boxing community.
He has been featured in numerous boxing publications, and his achievements have been celebrated by both the Samoan and Australian boxing communities. He is a great example of how dedication and hard work can pay off and has been an inspiration to many aspiring boxers.
45. Bob Mirovic
Bob Mirovic, also known as “The Big Bear”, is an Australian boxer of Croatian descent. He stands at an impressive 1.96 m tall, with a reach of 203 cm. He has been boxing since the age of 22 and started his career in 1987.
Throughout his career, Bob has had the privilege of fighting a number of world-renowned boxers, such as Nikolai Valuev, Joe Bugner and Frans Botha. He also had the unique opportunity to be a sparring partner of the legendary Mike Tyson.
This is a testament to Bob’s skill and experience as a boxer, and it is no surprise that he has become one of the most well-known and respected fighters in the world.
46. Ambrose Palmer
Ambrose Harold Palmer was a remarkable athlete who excelled in both world-class professional boxing and Australian rules football. Palmer was born in Australia and pursued a career in professional boxing, becoming a world-class prizefighter.
Between 1930 and 1941, he was also a leading Australian rules footballer. He was successful in both sports, proving his athleticism and determination. Palmer’s boxing career was impressive. He fought in the flyweight class and became the Australian flyweight champion in 1932.
He went on to compete in a number of matches in Australia and overseas. He also competed in the 1936 Olympics in Berlin, and the Commonwealth Games in 1938.
He was known for his fast footwork and powerful punches and was respected by his opponents. At the same time, Palmer was also a successful Australian rules footballer. He played for the East Fremantle Football Club in the Western Australian National Football League (WANFL).
He quickly became a key player for the team and was known for his reliable and consistent performances. He was a great kick and could read the game well.
His athleticism enabled him to make quick decisions and take advantage of opportunities. Ambrose Harold Palmer was a remarkable athlete who achieved success in both world-class professional boxing and Australian rules football.
He was a respected professional prizefighter and a leading footballer in the 1930s and early 1940s. His athleticism and determination enabled him to excel in both sports and make a name for himself.
47. Paul Fleming
Paul Fleming is an Australian professional boxer from Tully, Queensland. He is best known for his performance at the 2008 Olympics, where he competed as a featherweight. Prior to this, he was an Australian Institute of Sport scholarship holder.
This scholarship enabled him to hone his boxing skills and prepare for the Olympics. Fleming is not only a talented boxer, but also a tattooed concreter. He displayed his impressive skills in 2006 when he won a bronze medal at the World Junior Championships.
Unfortunately, he was unable to take the gold as he lost to Vyacheslav Shipunov. Despite this, Fleming’s bronze medal is a testament to his dedication and hard work.
48. Tony Madigan
Antony Morgan “Tony” Madigan was a formidable athlete who competed in both boxing and rugby during his career. He represented Australia at the 1952, 1956 and 1960 Olympics in boxing, and was able to achieve impressive results in each of them.
At the 1952 Olympics, he finished in fifth place, while in 1956 he was able to improve his standing, finishing in fifth place again. Finally, in 1960, he was able to reach the podium, finishing in third place.
Unfortunately, Madigan was unable to win a medal in 1960, as he narrowly lost his semi-final bout against the legendary Muhammad Ali. This was a particularly heartbreaking loss for Madigan, as he had been in excellent form and was expected to win the fight.
Despite this loss, Madigan was still widely respected for his athletic achievements and his dedication to the sport of boxing.
49. Garth Wood
Garth Wood is a multi-talented Australian athlete, having excelled in both professional boxing and rugby league. Wood is best known for his success in the boxing world, having won the 2009/2010 Contender Boxing Series.
Prior to his success in boxing, Wood had a successful career as a professional rugby league footballer, playing for two of the most iconic teams in the National Rugby League (NRL), the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Balmain Tigers.
Wood’s success in both sports is a testament to his athletic prowess and dedication to the game. His ability to transfer his skills and knowledge between sports is a rare quality that not many athletes possess.
Wood was able to use his experience in one sport to help him excel in another, something that not many athletes are able to do. Wood has achieved great success in both sports, and his accomplishments are sure to inspire future generations of Australian athletes.
His achievements demonstrate that with hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve great things. Wood is an example of a true champion, and his story will undoubtedly be an inspiration to future athletes.
50. Paul Gallen
Paul Gallen is an accomplished athlete who has achieved success in both boxing and rugby league. He is a former professional rugby league footballer who played as a lock, prop and second-row forward for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks in the NRL.
During his successful career with the Sharks, Gallen was the team captain and led the team to their first ever NRL Premiership title in 2016. His transition to professional boxing has also been successful.
He has held the Australian Heavyweight title, the New South Wales Heavyweight title, and the WBF Asia Pacific Heavyweight title.
He has also competed in numerous high-profile bouts, including his fight against former UFC champion Mark Hunt in 2018. Gallen has been widely praised for his dedication and commitment to the sport, having been awarded the Order of Australia Medal in 2019 for his service to sport and charitable organizations.
His achievements in both rugby league and boxing have solidified his position as one of Australia’s most beloved athletes.
Conclusion
It is clear that Australia is home to some of the best boxers in the world. With a proud history of producing world-class fighters, Australia has some of the most competitive and talented boxers in the sport.
From world champions like Jeff Horn to Olympic medalists like Alex Leapai, Australia has produced some of the most talented boxers in the world.
With the support of dedicated trainers, gyms, and fans, Australia is sure to continue producing world-class fighters for many years to come.
