The Pride of Poplar

The name Teddy "The Pride of Poplar" Baldock is enshrined in the record books as Britain's youngest ever world champion. A powerful glory and tears story of an East End boxing idol who went from national hero to fallen star. 
Born in Poplar in 1907, boxing was in his blood, his grandfather having been a bare-knuckle fighter. Baldock’s brilliant boxing skills and colourful style saw him fight in famous venues like Madison Square Gardens. 
At 19, the Pride of Poplar defeated American Archie Bell at the Royal Albert Hall for the World bantamweight title, in one of the greatest bouts between boxing’s little men. He would never reach such heights again, but when he retired after a distinguished career of over 80 fights he remained a hero of the East End, long after his heyday in the ring. 
Teddy’s story is the stuff of legend; in his prime, his wealth and fame was such that he rubbed shoulders with dukes and earls but in 1971, when he died penniless in an Essex infirmary, he didn’t even have his own pyjamas.
Teddy was also European Champion 1928-1931, Commonwealth Champion 1928-1930, and British Bantamweight Champion 1928-1931.
A detailed account of Teddy’s life can be found on his grandson Martin’s website. http://www.teddybaldock.co.uk/

Sculpted by Carl Payne, Teddy’s tribute stands outside Langdon Park Community Sports College, Hay Currie Street, where it is hoped it inspires local youngsters. The site is significant in that the college stands on the site of Teddy’s former childhood home.