A section of Towson Avenue in Fort Smith has been renamed Bobby Crabtree Boulevard to honor the local boxing legend who earned fame as ‘The Fighting Hillbilly.’ Bobby Crabtree, a Fort Smith native, competed in 93 cruiserweight and heavyweight boxing matches over 20 years, achieving 56 victories, 51 of which were by knockout.

Boxing Career Highlights

In 1987, Crabtree faced George Foreman in a memorable bout. Experts say Crabtree won all five rounds before losing in the sixth due to a technical knockout. ‘But he hit me,’ Crabtree said with a laugh. ‘I’ve been everywhere. It’s been fun, but I’m glad it’s over.’ Crabtree, who still works out every day except Sunday, was honored as people gathered along Towson Avenue to celebrate the street dedication.

The newly named Bobby Crabtree Boulevard spans the block between South ‘L’ and ‘M’ streets, directly in front of the small auto body shop that Crabtree has operated for 37 years. ‘I’m humbled and whatever you want to call it, it’s really nice,’ Crabtree said. ‘I gave it all, stayed here at home. It started here and it ended here.’ A feature documentary about Crabtree is currently in production and is expected to be released next spring.

Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.