Billy Costello (boxer)

Billy Costello (August 10, 1956 – December 1, 2011) was an American professional boxer who held the WBC light welterweight title.

Costello, born in Kingston, New York, began his professional boxing career in 1979. He quickly rose through the ranks and became known for his aggressive, crowd-pleasing style. His most notable achievement came on January 29, 1984, when he defeated Bruce Curry by a tenth-round technical knockout to win the WBC light welterweight championship. He defended the title three times, against Ronnie Shields, Saoul Mamby, and Hirokazu Kameda.

Costello eventually lost the title to Lonnie Smith on August 21, 1985, by a majority decision. He continued to fight for several years, but never regained a major title. He retired from boxing in 1990 with a record of 40 wins (23 by knockout), 2 losses, and 1 draw.

After his boxing career, Costello remained active in the community, working with youth and promoting the sport. He was inducted into the New York State Boxing Hall of Fame in 2012, posthumously.

He passed away in December 2011 at the age of 55, due to complications from diabetes. He is remembered as a popular and exciting fighter who brought pride to his hometown.