About Elmer Ray
Lived 1911 – 1987 (aged 76). Elmer Ray was an American boxer.
Elmer "Violent" Ray (March 3, 1911 – May 20, 1987) was an American professional boxer who fought from 1933 to 1949. Ray, also known as "The Florida Thumper," was one of the hardest-hitting heavyweights of the 1940s. During a boxing career that included battle royals and alligator wrestling, he scored 69 knockouts. Ray never fought for the title, but did fight multiple exhibition bouts against Joe Louis. He also fought Jersey Joe Walcott, Lee Savold, and Ezzard Charles. unless otherwise stated.
Official record
All newspaper decisions are officially regarded as “no decision” bouts and are not counted in the win/loss/draw column.
Unofficial record
Record with the inclusion of newspaper decisions in the win/loss/draw column.
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Important facts
People in Elmer Ray's life
Named in this biography and alive at the same time
Related people
Same field, nearest in time
Contemporaries
People whose lives overlapped Elmer Ray's
Frequently asked questions
Who was Elmer Ray?
American boxer (1911-1987)
When was Elmer Ray born?
Elmer Ray was born on 3 March 1911 in Hastings.
When did Elmer Ray die?
Elmer Ray died on 20 May 1987.
What was Elmer Ray's occupation?
Elmer Ray was a boxer.
What nationality was Elmer Ray?
Elmer Ray was American.
Sources & further reading
Cite this page
APA: Biography.guide. (2026). Elmer Ray. https://biography.guide/elmer-ray/
MLA: "Elmer Ray." Biography.guide, https://biography.guide/elmer-ray/.
Chicago: "Elmer Ray." Biography.guide. https://biography.guide/elmer-ray/.
Data last updated: 2026-09-20 · Spot an error? Report a correction.
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