Hairston, Eugene "Silent"

Born in Harlem, New York City; deafened at age 1 by spinal meningitis; attended NYC's P.S. 47 but had to quit school at age 15 to help support his siblings. Became an amateur boxer in 1945, losing only one bout out of 61. Turned pro in 1947 and fought until 1953, his biggest fight being with former World Middleweight Champion Jake La Motta which ended in a draw. Lost his boxing license due to injury and retired from boxing at age 22, going to work with United Parcel Service (UPS).