Backus started his career with a rocky record, only winning 7 of his first 19 bouts. But in 1964, Backus went on a 4 fight winning streak, ultimately suffering another 3 fight loss. After losing a bout on his 22nd birthday, Backus retired with his record consisting of 7 wins, 7 losses and 3 draws. He resumed his boxing career in 1966, scoring a knockout against Tod Purtell, in his first bout back after retiring. His career went uphill from there, as Backus went on a 7 fight wining streak. His streak was broken by fellow boxer Percy Pugh, but soon went on another streak of winning 8 in a row.
After his last winning streak, Backus became a top ten Welterweight challenger at number 10. In 1970, Backus was chosen by then champ, Jose Napoles, who had an optional defense of his world title, to compete against. Napoles and his camp thought Backus was the perfect "tune up guy" and a easy target. During their bout, Backus landed a punch that opened a cut over Napoles' eye that caused the fight to be stopped in the 4th round. Backus won by TKO, and became the new Welterweight Champion. In a rematch, Napoles KO'd Backus in the 8th round of their bout and regained his title.
Backus' career went on a up and down roller-coaster ride after 1971. After losing and then winning bouts, Backus became the number one challenger elected by the WBA Welterweight Championship. One draw and one knockout later, Backus announced his retirement. Backus went on to become a correctional officer, retiring in 2006 and is currently living in South Carolina.
After his last winning streak, Backus became a top ten Welterweight challenger at number 10. In 1970, Backus was chosen by then champ, Jose Napoles, who had an optional defense of his world title, to compete against. Napoles and his camp thought Backus was the perfect "tune up guy" and a easy target. During their bout, Backus landed a punch that opened a cut over Napoles' eye that caused the fight to be stopped in the 4th round. Backus won by TKO, and became the new Welterweight Champion. In a rematch, Napoles KO'd Backus in the 8th round of their bout and regained his title.
Backus' career went on a up and down roller-coaster ride after 1971. After losing and then winning bouts, Backus became the number one challenger elected by the WBA Welterweight Championship. One draw and one knockout later, Backus announced his retirement. Backus went on to become a correctional officer, retiring in 2006 and is currently living in South Carolina.
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