Hamoud Daïdi

Hamoud Daïdi Early Life and Rise in Boxing

Hamoud Daïdi was born on 25 May 1933 in Blida, Algeria. He discovered boxing at a very young age and put on his first gloves at 16 under Professor Benmehdia, a former North African champion. His talent was immediately evident, and fans in Blida quickly recognized his potential.

By 18, Daïdi trained under Professor Chérif Belabbès, who nurtured his extraordinary abilities. Under Belabbès’ guidance, Daïdi won a series of matches that brought him rapid recognition. In 1952, he earned selection to compete in the Helsinki Olympic Games, a major milestone for any young athlete.

Hamoud Daïdi Champion Titles and International Success

Daidi continued to rise in prominence. In 1953, he became the French Super Lightweight Amateur Champion. That same year, he defeated the renowned French boxer Ferrer at Stade ex-Cerdan, securing a memorable victory.

He then reached the final at the 1953 European Amateur Boxing Championships, though the judges refused to crown an Algerian champion. Undeterred, he competed in the Latin American Championships in Buenos Aires, reaching the final once again.

Struggles During the Algerian Revolution

The Algerian Revolution began in 1954, and Daïdi’s life changed dramatically. Authorities sent him to Germany for military service. Returning to Blida in 1956, he paused boxing to join the FLN and participate in civil organization efforts alongside fellow militants.

Later that year, he faced a colonial army checkpoint. Gunfire left him with a neck injury, and surgery at Mustapha Hospital followed. He remained partially paralyzed on his right side for months. After long rehabilitation at Tixeraïne hospital, he recovered enough to join the National Liberation Army (ALN) in 1957.

Shortly after, authorities arrested him and his younger brother Abdelkrim. Daïdi endured severe torture in Blida prison. His health declined, and on 28 April 1958, he was transferred to Blida Hospital. He passed away there on 13 May 1958.