Definition
Roger Michelot (19 November 1915 – 14 November 1999) was a French amateur and professional boxer who won the gold medal in the middleweight division at the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin.
Overview
Born in Maubeuge, Nord, France, Michelot began boxing as a teenager and quickly distinguished himself in national competitions. His most notable achievement came at the 1936 Olympic Games, where he defeated opponents from Germany, Italy, and the United States to secure the middle‑weight title for France. Following his Olympic success, Michelot turned professional in 1937. Over a career that spanned the late 1930s and early 1940s, he compiled a record of 24 wins (10 by knockout), 7 losses, and 2 draws. He retired from competition after World War II and later worked in the sporting goods industry. Michelot died in Lille, France, in 1999.
Etymology/Origin
- Roger: Derived from the Old Germanic elements hrod (“fame”) and ger (“spear”), the name entered French usage via the Norman form Roger.
- Michelot: A diminutive of the French given name Michel (the French form of Michael, meaning “who is like God” in Hebrew). The suffix -ot is a common French diminutive, indicating “little Michel” or “son of Michel.”
Characteristics
- Boxing style: Michelot was noted for a balanced orthodox stance, emphasizing strong defensive footwork and precise, straight punches. Contemporary reports highlighted his endurance and tactical adaptability in the ring.
- Physical attributes: Competing in the middleweight class (≈ 72 kg/159 lb), he stood approximately 1.78 m (5 ft 10 in) tall, possessing a reach that facilitated his effective jab.
- Legacy: Michelot’s Olympic victory contributed to France’s strong boxing reputation in the interwar period. He is remembered in French sporting history as one of the few Olympic gold‑medalists in boxing before the Second World War.
Related Topics
- Boxing at the 1936 Summer Olympics
- List of Olympic medalists in boxing (men)
- French boxing history
- Middleweight division (boxing)
- Sports in interwar France