MONTANA, SMALL SIGNED PHOTOGRAPH

Benjamin Gan (February 24, 1913 – August 4, 1976), more commomly known as Small Montana, was a Filipino boxer. Montana, who stood 5 feet and 4 inch (163 cm) tall and never weighed more than 112 pounds, won the Flyweight Championship of the World (as recognized by New York state). He won the American flyweight title by beating Midget Wolgast twice in 1935. He also went abroad to defend his title, but lost to Benny Lynch in a 15 round bout in London on January 9, 1937. He also tried to fight for a world championship but fell short in all his world title matches. During his career he fought Little Dado and Little Pancho (half-brother of Francisco Guilledo) but lost to both of them on points. Although he never won a world title, he defeated Manuel Ortiz, Midget Wolgast, Tony Marino, Joe Tei Ken, Speedy Dado, Tommy Forte, Augie Curtis, Pat Palmer, Frankie Jarr, Eugene "Tuffy" Pierpont and Antol "Tony" Kocsis. Offered here is a rare, original, promotional photograph of Small Montana which he has boldly signed and inscribed. From the collection of sports writer Charles Lesemann.
This is an original 8" x 10" promotional photo of Montana displaying his championship belt. Boldly signed in fountain pen, "With my best always, Ben S. Montana 2/26/43." Bold, clear image. Clean front and back. Tiny crease in lower left corner. Minor corner wear. Very scarce.