Pinky Silverberg

Pincus “Pinky” Silverberg was an American boxer who was born in New York on April 5, 1904. He was a boxing contender on the flyweight division and the brother of Herman Silverberg, who is also a known boxer. The 5’4” feet tall, 112 pounds boxing champ fought in various locations including Australia, Connecticut and Cuba during the 1920’s and early 1930’s.

At the age of 16, Silverberg began his professional boxing career in order to support his family in Bronx. In September 1920, he faced Young Pastoria with the battle ending in a 4-round draw. He dedicated the next 3 years of his career fighting exclusively in Connecticut specifically in New Haven. During this time, he successfully won two boxing matches in 1921, four times in 1922 and 12 bouts in 1923.

On the 12th of February 1924, Silverberg went face to face with Joey Russell in New Jersey. Ironically, the battle ended with no decision. He was challenged for three more fights on that same year and won each of the three bouts, all of which were held in New York. After 25 fights, Pinky was able to compile a terrific boxing record with only 2 losses.

During a scheduled fight with Sammy Tisch in 1927, his brother Herman had to replace him since he weighed 9 pounds fewer than his opponent. Luckily, his brother won the bout under his name. When Fidel La Barba retired in August 1927, the flyweight division was in chaos. Since Pinky only had 6 losses out of 37 bouts, he was given the opportunity to fight for the World Championship title. The match took place on October 22, 1927 where he won the battle against Ruby Bradley who was disqualified for a low blow. Silverberg was then awarded the NBA Champion title but due to some unknown circumstances, the NBA president stripped him off the title.

His battles become infrequent over the succeeding years and decided to settle in Connecticut after his retirement. On the 3rd of November 2007, Silverberg was given the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame title.