Freddie Welsh (March 5, 1886 - July 29, 1927) was a boxing champion.
Born in Pontypridd, Wales, and christened Frederick Hall Thomas, he was nicknamed the "Welsh Wizard" (an epithet shared by his contemporary, David Lloyd George).
The son of a successful businessman, Freddie suffered frequent illnesses as a child and was sent to California for his health. Here he took up boxing as a result of a suggestion from his physical fitness instructor. He became so good at the sport that he decided to make a living out of it and he turned professional in 1905.
He took the name Freddie Welsh to prevent his mother from learning of his new career. The surname 'Welsh' taken as a honour to his nationality.
In 1914, Welsh won the World Lightweight title on a points decision against Ritchie in London.
During the first world war Freddie served as a lieutenant and helped disabled veterans at the Walter Reed Hospital. He was discharged a captain and returned to the ring in December, 1920.
He retired from boxing after a defeat by Archie Walker in 1922, but retired as a wealthy man. He bought a health farm and a gymnasium but fell on hard times and died penniless in New York.
During his career he won 120 fights, lost 27, drew 16 and achieved 30 knockouts. Freddie Welsh was inducted into the 'Ring Boxing Hall of Fame' in 1960 and the 'International Boxing Hall of Fame' in 1997.
