Ewart Potgieter

Ewart Potgieter (December 28, 1932 – April 1, 1997) was a South African professional boxer who was one of the largest in the history of boxing.

Early life and education Ewart Frederick Potgieter was born in Vryheid, Natal, South Africa, on December 28, 1932.

While at Vryheid High School, he was active in boxing. After a year of pre-medical studies at the University of Natal, Potgieter left school following his brother's accidental death and returned to work on his father's cattle ranch.

Professional career Skipping the amateurs, Potgieter entered the pro ranks and stopped Fred McCoy in his first fight at Durban. He added two more wins in England before a draw against Canada's James J. Parker, who substituted Earl Walls, at the Harringay Arena in November 1955.

Potgieter limited his 1956 activity to exhibition bouts in South Africa's four provinces before traveling to Boston in December with manager Johann Eloff on a six-month visa.

His first American bout came in January 1957 at Valley Arena Gardens, where he was defeated by Jeff Dyer of Springfield. Starting out under Flaherty, he defeated Dave Roy in February and Bruce Olson in March 1957.

Potgieter's last fight was in April 1957 against John Holman, who had defeated Ezzard Charles in 1955. He lost by unanimous decision.

Professional boxing record

Death Ewart Potgieter died on April 1, 1997, in Vryheid, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.