Born in 1952 in Winnfield, LA. A standout high school athlete, Davis excelled in fencing, winning five Amateur Fencers League of America competitions. Drawn to boxing to cross-train for fencing, she relocated to New York for a potential fencing scholarship and began training at a PAL club.
Unable to obtain a pro license in New York due to her gender, “Cat” turned pro in 1976 in Maine and boxed in Washington state, Pennsylvania, and Georgia. In a historic move, she filed a sex discrimination suit against New York State Athletic Commission, and after a protracted legal battle that involved lawsuits by other women, the judge ruled in her favor. Along with Marian Trimiar and Jackie Tonawanda, on September 19, 1978, Davis was among the first women to be granted a pro license by the NYSAC. This landmark ruling paved the way for generations of women to box professionally in the Empire State. Davis became a star, she was profiled in People and was the first woman featured on the cover of The Ring. She also appeared on The Today Show, CBS Sports Spectacular and ABC Sports Superstars.
The 5’ 10” Davis retired in 1981 following a stoppage win over Lavonne Ludian in Poughkeepsie with a 13-0, 1 NC (13 KOs) record.
Born:1952
Bouts:14
Won:13
Lost:0
NC: 1
KOs:13
Induction: 2025
Cathy "Cat" Davis
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