Historic Boxing Match
On July 17, 1950, a historic boxing match took place in the Midlands where prominent heavyweight Jack Gardner faced off against Johnny Williams in a match that would later be referred to as “the bloodbath of the Midlands.” Both fighters endured such extensive injuries that they required hospitalization overnight following the contest, which has since been remembered as one of Britain’s most intense bouts. This match significantly boosted Gardner’s career, paving the way for his shot at the British heavyweight title soon after.
Reflections from Jack Gardner’s Daughter
Reflecting on her father’s extraordinary journey more than 75 years later, Jack Gardner’s daughter, Jackalyn, shared her thoughts during a special segment on BBC Radio Leicester. She warmly described her father, saying,
“He was a fantastic father and he was a very gentle man,”
highlighting his reputation as “The Gentle Giant”. Unlike many contemporary boxers known for their confrontational antics, she noted that her father and his opponents exhibited sportsmanship, often shaking hands and smiling before their fights.
Career Highlights
Gardner and Williams competed against each other three times throughout Gardner’s professional career, most notably in this notorious fight. After claiming victory over Bruce Woodcock in November 1950, Gardner was crowned the British heavyweight champion—a title he proudly held for two years. He later added the European title to his accolades.
However, in a rematch in 1952, Gardner lost his title to Williams. Shortly thereafter, he stepped away from boxing at the young age of 25. A year later, he made a comeback, winning five matches in a row, including his final bout against Williams in 1955, which rekindled hopes for another title shot. Unfortunately, a knee injury in training led to the cancellation of an anticipated fight against Don Cockell, ultimately denying Gardner another chance at the championship.
Life After Boxing
After concluding his boxing career in 1956 with a record that boasted 28 wins—23 by knockout—and only six losses, Gardner transitioned into farming on a smallholding and poultry farm in Leicestershire. Jackalyn recounted that his victory in the heavyweight championship provided him with the capital to purchase the farm. Neither he nor his wife possessed prior farming experience, leading them to a daunting realization about their new venture. Fortunately, their agricultural neighbors offered assistance, including lending machinery and livestock, helping them adjust to their new life. Gardner primarily focused on dairy farming while also keeping chickens, embodying a simple and grounded lifestyle.
Final Years and Legacy
Jack Gardner’s life came to a close on November 11, 1978, just five days after his 52nd birthday, after a battle with a brain tumor. Jackalyn described his struggle, noting the impact of his declining health—he required assistance with meals due to difficulties seeing, as well as chronic illness leading up to his demise. His funeral was marked by a poignant tribute from a trumpeter of the Grenadier Guards, the Last Post resonating as many mourners gathered to pay their respects.
In 2021, a green plaque was unveiled in Market Harborough, celebrating Gardner’s significant contributions and legacy, ensuring that his remarkable story is not forgotten in the annals of boxing history.
