• Started in life by defending himself as a scrappy kid in the rough Hamilton neighbourhood of his youth, to defending his boxing titles around the world

• One of Canada's smallest fighters at 5'6", he weighed in at only 126 pounds

• At the age of 14, though, he started training for and fighting in Steeltown's "Friday Night Smokers" and from there moved to Winnipeg to prepare for more prestigious competition

• Won the national featherweight title in 1931 and was a member of the 1932 Olympic team in Los Angeles

• Turned pro in 1936 and was known for his rock-like stance and enduring strength - both of which were a surprise given his size

• In 1943, claimed the world featherweight title by beating Jackie Wilson in 15 rounds

• Successfully defended the title twice before losing to American Phil Terranova seven months later

• In all, Callura fought 100 professional bouts, winning 57 (13 by knockout), losing 33 (six by knockout), and having ten draws. He retired after his 1943 defeat, became a steelworker in Buffalo, and eventually settled back in Hamilton with his wife.

• Member of Canada's Sports Hall of Fame, inducted in 1969.