Freddie Mills, born in Bournemouth, Hampshire 105 years ago, was a legendary British boxer known for his tough and relentless fighting style. Despite taking three or four punches to land one, Mills thrilled fans with his skills in the ring. He turned professional in February of 1936 after three amateur fights and worked his way up to win the world title. One interesting fact from his early career is knocking out the same opponent, Jack Scott, twice on the same night in October 1936.
It wasn’t until June of 1942 that Mills fought for a major title, defeating Len Harvey to become the British and Commonwealth light heavyweight champion. However, his shot at the world title in May of 1946 ended in defeat to Gus Lesnevich. Mills showed incredible heart and bravery in the ring, facing tough opponents like Bruce Woodcock, Joe Baksi, and Lloyd Marshall. Despite setbacks, Mills became the world light heavyweight champion in July 1948 after a rematch with Lesnevich. His reign was short-lived as he lost the title to Joey Maxim in January 1950, marking the end of his boxing career with a record of 98 pro fights.
Freddie Mills’ death in July 1965 remains a mystery to this day. Initially considered a murder, the case was later ruled a suicide by the police. The circumstances surrounding his death raised doubts among family and friends who did not believe he would take his own life. The presence of a fairground rifle in his car, borrowed from a friend, added to the intrigue. The positioning of the rifle and the lack of fingerprints raised questions about the possibility of suicide. Some speculate that Mills may have been murdered, given his connections to the London underworld and rumors about unpaid debts.
Years after his death, controversial theories emerged, including claims of Mills being a serial killer who murdered eight women. These allegations were met with skepticism and disbelief, given Mills’ reputation as a great fighter and a loving family man. The idea of Mills being involved in criminal activities contradicted his public image as a sports hero. Despite the speculations and rumors, Freddie Mills’ legacy as a boxing legend endures, and his mysterious death continues to fascinate and perplex those who seek answers.
Freddie Mills’ story is one of triumph and tragedy, from his rise as a boxing champion to the mysterious circumstances surrounding his death. As a beloved figure in British sports history, Mills left behind a legacy that continues to captivate audiences and spark debate. Whether he met his end by his own hand or fell victim to foul play, the mystery of Freddie Mills’ death remains unresolved. His contributions to the world of boxing and the enduring questions surrounding his passing ensure that his memory lives on as a legend in the hearts of fans and admirers.