John H. Stracey, the oldest surviving British world boxing champion, lives in a semi-detached house in Wirral that holds a treasure trove of sporting history. The 75-year-old is the only UK fighter to win a world title in Mexico, defeating Jose Napoles in 1975. Despite modern boxers earning millions, Stracey harbors no jealousy, telling the ECHO: "If I was boxing today, without doubt, I'd be a multimillionaire. They're earning millions now, but we didn't have that."
Life in Merseyside
Stracey moved to Wallasey in the 1980s after marrying Kathy from Moreton. He has become a community pillar, earning an MBE for charity work with Parkinson's patients. He said: "I really love it up here and I'd never move back down South. The people here are wonderful." He enjoys running by the sea.
From East End to Champion
Born in Bethnal Green, Stracey took up boxing at his father's insistence to stay out of trouble. He turned professional days before his 19th birthday, winning British and European welterweight titles. His crowning moment came on December 6, 1975, when he defeated Napoles in Mexico City's bullring to claim the WBC and Ring welterweight titles. Stracey recalled: "Everyone said I had no chance, but I felt so comfortable. I didn't want it anywhere else."
Acclimatization and Strategy
Stracey arrived weeks early to acclimatize to Mexico's altitude, having boxed there in the 1968 Olympics. He also used a tactical advantage: his manager Terry Lawless had him spar Napoles earlier, focusing on his left jab. Stracey said: "I was catching him all the time. Lawless said, 'If you fight him, that left will beat him.'" The prediction proved true as Stracey won by TKO in the final round.
Friendship with Muhammad Ali
Stracey is one of five men awarded a special ring by the WBC, alongside Muhammad Ali. They became friends after meeting in 1973 when both fought on the same card in Las Vegas. Stracey recalled: "Ali stood on my foot, then grabbed me. I milked the pain. After that, he came to see me defend the world title."
Encounter with Elvis Presley
During that same card, Stracey unknowingly met Elvis Presley, who wished him luck. Stracey laughed: "He had old jeans on and didn't look like Elvis. I just said, 'Thanks mate.' I didn't know it was him." Stracey went on to win his fight by decision.
Retirement and Later Life
Stracey retired at 27, as promised to his mother, after 51 fights (37 KOs). He said: "One day I woke up and said, 'I'm finished.' My mum gave me a big kiss." Post-boxing, he pursued singing, recording a World Cup song titled '66 All Over Again' in 2024. He hopes to be remembered as "an honest fighter who won everything."
