Born Gershon Mendeloff in London’s East End in 1894 this blue plaque honors Ted Kid Lewis. Lewis was more than just a boxer he was a phenomenon. He captured hearts with his relentless spirit. He left an indelible mark on the sport.
Ted Kid Lewis turned professional at just fourteen in 1909. Imagine the gas-lit streets of Whitechapel. Picture a young man honing his skills at the Judaean Social Athletic Club. Lewis quickly rose through the ranks.
By 1913, Ted Kid Lewis had captured the British featherweight title. The following year he added the European featherweight title to his name. But he was just getting started.
Ted Kid Lewis then embarked on a remarkable journey. He toured Australia and lived in the United States for several years. He proved his mettle on both sides of the Atlantic. In 1915 Lewis faced Jack Britton. This was the first fight in their legendary 20-fight rivalry. Lewis won. He became the world welterweight champion.
Their battles were the stuff of legend. They epitomized grit. They showed determination. Lewis and Britton fought a staggering 224 rounds against each other. Lewis ultimately won three, lost four and drew one. There were also twelve no decisions.
Beyond the ring Ted Kid Lewis befriended Charlie Chaplin. Chaplin even became godfather to Lewis’s son Morton. Lewis also dabbled in acting. He often played a boxer, unsurprisingly.
In the early 1930s, Ted Kid Lewis’s reputation faced controversy. He briefly worked for Oswald Mosley’s security team. He even stood for Mosley’s New Party. However, Lewis soon broke ties due to Mosley’s antisemitism. Lewis helped fund the 43 Group. This was made up of former Jewish servicemen. They confronted Mosley’s resurgent fascist movement.
Lewis explored many ventures after boxing. He wasn’t a natural businessman. He tried his hand at many commercial ventures. He wasn’t defined by his business acumen. His son’s biography described him as a superb boxer. He was a lovable simpleton. His generosity outside the ring matched his prowess inside it.
Ted Kid Lewis spent his final years here at Nightingale House. This is a care home in Clapham. He passed away in 1970.
This blue plaque ensures that Ted Kid Lewis is not forgotten. It reminds us of his incredible achievements. It also reminds us of his unwavering spirit. He was a true champion both inside and outside the ring.