(Thomas Rocco Barbella) (1922-1990) US middleweight boxing champion who fought in the 1940s and 1950s. Although he was not noted for his boxing skills or finesse, his colorful, brawling style made him popular. He compiled a record of 67 wins, 10 losses and 6 draws between 1942 and 1952. Three of his bouts, with Tony Zale 1946, 1947, and 1948, were considered classics.