If the years after World War II were a "Golden Age" then the first half of the decade of the 1950's certainly wasn't far behind. Many of the greatest stars in Hollywood participated, setting the stage for the explosion of interest in women's fighting that was just around the corner.
The year 1951 opened with Janet Leigh firmly in control of the title. But her new husband wasn't happy seeing her "on display" in her undies so, reluctantly, she quit to start a family.
To fill the vacant title, a bout was held between Susan Cabot and perennial contender, Gretchen Curry. Cabot won a hard, tough fight to become the undisputed champion. Curry retired and followed her rival Marge Danzer into managing others. Her most famous protege was top contender Shirley MacLaine.
Doris Sheppard held the title much of 1952, holding off challenges from stalwards like Marilyn Monroe (in a comeback attempt), Ann DeCarlo and Barbara Nichols. Like several of her era, she went into managing and made a name for herself directing the careers of Jayne Mansfield, Kim Novak and Mamie van Doren among others who became stars under her hand.
Lovely dancer Vera-Ellen's strong legs carried her all the way to the title as she high kicked Sheppard out of the championship and then defeated her several months later in a hard-fought rematch.
Surprisingly tough despite her demure appearance, Betsy Palmer established herself as a force in the early 50's. By the time Vera-Ellen's reign was drawing to a close, Palmer was there to snatch the crown from her head and place it atop her own.
By the mid-1950's times were changing and nowhere more than in Frank's league. Lovely Puerto Rican Champ Rita Moreno (shown in the blond wig and 'belt' she tauntingly wore for her fight with Jayne Mansfield) came to Hollywood from Broadway and campaigned relentlessly for a title match. When she got her chance, she took advantage. Moreno's win over Palmer made her the first true Hispanic champion in Hollywood history.
