Wilde, Jimmy (1892-1969), a Welsh boxer, was the first official flyweight boxing champion of the world. Known as the Mighty Atom, he remained champion from 1916 to 1923, the longest flyweight reign in boxing history. Wilde lost only four fights in his professional career, winning 131 with 14 ending in no decision. Wilde stood only 5 feet 21/2 inches tall (159 centimeters) and never weighed more than 108 pounds (49 kilograms). The left hook was his best punch.
Wilde was born on May 15, 1892, in Pontypridd, Mid Glamorgan, Wales. He spent his boyhood working as a pit boy in the Welsh coal mines. At the age of 16, he began fighting exhibitions, appearing in about 500 fights from 1909 to 1914. He won the flyweight championship on Dec. 18, 1916. He retired after losing his title on June 18, 1923. Wilde died on March 10, 1969.
