Presented to the well-known boxing figure Ben Bentley, Rocky Marciano's publicist for the 1953 Marciano-Walcott fight. Marciano presented these sweaters only to members of his inner circle while training in Holland, Michigan, before the fight. A classic sports piece, it is extremely recognizable as an important relic of the Marciano era. It can be seen in many photos of Marciano's camp. Sporting thick chenille sewn on patches, "Ben Bentley" on front and "Rocky Marciano" on verso. Obtained by us directly from the daughter of Bentley who has had it ever since. Bentley was one of the most visible sports personalities of the time as ring announcer for the nationally-televised "Pabst Wednesday Night Fights" and "Friday Night Gillette Cavalcade of Sport." Bentley was known for his gruff voice, larger than life personality and as a Damon Runyon type character. Letter of Authenticity from Ben Bentley's daughter.