Jackie Davis inducted into Hall of Fame posthumously. Jackie Davis, the main attraction at the annual Cleveland Christmas Show, was an outstanding boxer.

Davis was born in Cleveland in 1910 to Max and Libby. He had seven I brothers and sisters.

He married his wife, Frieda, and the couple had three children: Doreen, Edward, and Robert.

Davis was raised at the old Jewish Orphans Home, now known as Belfaire JCB. It was there that Davis was introduced to boxing in 1926.

Davis fought for the Chicago Lightweight Golden Gloves Title in 1929. Davis lost and was runner-up to the future world champion Barney Ross. Ross later wrote about the fight in No Man Stands Alone. According to Ross, Davis beat him “pretty good, and I was surprised when they raised my hand.” Ross and Davis fought five more times with split decisions every time.

Davis fought at the prestigious Annual Cleveland Christmas Show and he was victorious in the main event. Following his victory, Davis retired from the ring in 1937. When he retired, Ring Magazine ranked Davis in the top ten contenders.

Davis became a nationally recognized referee. He worked some of the biggest fights of the decade including: Jake la Motta, Sugar Ray Robinson, Artie, Levine, Joey Maxim, and Jimmy Bivins.

Davis refereed the Cleveland Golden Gloves, and was recognized as one of the best referees.

The New York Times listed Davis as one of the best referees in Davis wrote a column in the now defunct, Cleveland Press entitled, “Jackie Davis says.”

Davis and sportscaster, Jim Graner, broadcast a weekly boxing show on WEWS TV 5. The show featured many of Cleveland’s up  and coming championship boxers.

While refereeing a charity event for children in 1968, Davis collapsed and died in the ring.

Davis was remembered for his great generosity of spirit both the country for several years in and out of the ring. Davis fought more than 175 fights, winning 90% of the bouts.