Melio Bettina

Melio Bettina (November 18, 1916 – December 20, 1996) was an American boxer who was the Light Heavyweight World Champion.

[1] According to local legend Melio changed to a southpaw stance after he couldn't find any amateur challengers.

Bettina was recognized as World Light Heavyweight champion by the New York State Athletic Commission in 1939.

Bettina won the title on February 3, 1939, when he scored a 9th-round TKO over favorite Tiger Jack Fox at Madison Square Garden in New York.

On January 14, 1941, Bettina faced Anton Christoforidis for the vacant National Boxing Association Light Heavyweight title in Cleveland, Ohio.