A tribute to Australia's own Champions of the World! 

Jeff Harding

'The heaviest Australian to win a world title...'

No-one was as surprised as Jeff Harding himself when he won the Light Heavyweight championship of the world on June 24, 1989. He was given the shot at the title when another opponent withdrew at the last minute.

He looked to be comprehensively beaten in Atlantic City, right up until the final round. Then, after a final exhortation to the 'Hitman' from trainer Johnny Lewis, he unleashed a savage flurry upon champion Denis Andries in round 12, winning by knockout! Such was the epic, 'Rocky'-like  nature of the bout, it was judged Fight of the Year by the WBC sanctioning body.

Harding was born in Grafton, NSW, on February 5, 1965. He turned pro in November, 1986 and won, in workmanlike fashion, the Australasian Light Heavyweight title, the NSW State Cruiserweight title, and the OPBF Light Heavyweight title. He was an aggressive hard puncher who was often criticized for his defensive lapses that allowed him to be hit quite a lot.

However, he seemed to be able to take incredible punishment and still win. Defensively, he did improve in the latter part of his career.

His battles with Andries were always greatly anticipated. After taking Andries' title, Harding successfully defended against Tom Collins and Nestor Giovannini, before losing the title to Andries in Melbourne within 7 rounds. Harding showed true champion mettle by winning it back from Andries in Engl nd 4 months later. 

An extremely tough journeyman fighter, he developed into a competent boxer, and remains the heaviest Australian to win a world title.

A wonderful era  recaptured

Given the unique place sport holds in the national psyche, The Boxers will be a continuing source of immense pleasure and pride to you. While the names of these redoubtable world champs  re enshrined in the annals of Australia's sporting history, this commemoration ensures that their faces and achievements will live on, long after they are gone, a tangible symbol of a wonderful era in boxing - and Australian sport.

Hand signed by Jeff Harding

The main photograph shows Jeff 'Hitman' Harding exchangings fire with challenger Nestor Giovannini in successful defence of his World Light Heavyweight title at Atlantic City, March 18, 1990. This is the photo that has been signed by Jeff Harding.

The photo below is a studio photograph taken soon after winning the title.

Strictly limited edition

·    This Micro-Edition has just 350 individually numbered  editions, ensuring rarity. When the last Limited Issue Micro-Edition of 'Jeff Harding' is gone, so is your opportunity - all original screens, dies, plates and film used in production have already been destroyed!

·    Independently authenticated by PricewaterhouseCoopers

·    Includes important biographic information, full career statistics and photographic information.

·    Selected highlights have been beautifully embossed.

HARDING 'The Boxers' Print only not framed

Personally signed by: JEFF HARDING 

Limited Edition: 350 

Unframed: 390 mm x 390 mm (approx)

Independently authenticated certificate by PricewaterhouseCoopers 

 

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