From September 1940 to May 1942, Charley Burley posted a win streak that included a victory over highly underrated Holman Williams. He was only 24, still growing. It was during this time (and immediately after) where he earned the reputation as an avoided fighter

But it was #OnThisDay in 1942 that Burley ran into Ezzard Charles, who battered him and dropped him late. Ezzard was actually a 2-to-1 underdog as Burley was reported to have been on a 26-fight win streak. [It was actually 20.] But Ezzard "The Wizard" stole the show.

But a great tidbit about this first Charley Burley fight: Ezzard Charles was only 19 and set to graduate from high school. In fact, Ezz had to boogie right after the fight to make it home in time for graduation.

But lest you believe some 19-year-old kid just wandered into Forbes Field wide-eyed and unawares, he actually brought a team of managers, a heap of luggage and his valet. Probably just a nod to that passing hero, Kid Chocolate.

And in case anyone wants to ride that "Ray Robinson ducked Charley Burley" train, you might find this thread helpful: https://twitter.com/PatrickMConnor/status/879014129113092096?s=20