Billiard Congress of America, One Pocket and Buffalo Sports Hall of Famer Danny DiLiberto dies at 89 – February 11, 2025

Danny DiLiberto, born on February 19, 1935, in Buffalo, New York, was a multifaceted athlete whose legacy in the world of pool is both profound and enduring. His journey from a professional boxer to a celebrated billiards champion and commentator showcases a life dedicated to excellence in sports.

Danny DiLiberto Movies and TV

Early Life and Boxing Career

Before his immersion into billiards, DiLiberto pursued professional boxing between 1957 and 1959, achieving an impressive record of 14 wins, 0 losses, and 1 draw, with 12 victories by knockout. Trained by the renowned Angelo Dundee, who also coached Muhammad Ali, DiLiberto’s boxing career was unfortunately cut short due to recurring hand injuries. Dundee once remarked, “Danny was a heck of a fighter. Whoever I put in front of him, he knocked out. If it weren’t for his brittle hands, he would have been a champion.”

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Transition to Billiards

Following his boxing career, DiLiberto channeled his competitive spirit into billiards. Turning professional in 1960, he quickly made a name for himself in various pool disciplines, including straight pool, one-pocket, eight-ball, and nine-ball. His analytical approach and strategic mindset allowed him to excel across these formats.

Notable Achievements

Throughout his illustrious career, DiLiberto secured numerous titles:

  • 1969: U.S. Masters Straight Pool Championship
  • 1981: BCA National Eight-Ball Championship, where he triumphed over Nick Varner in a thrilling final.
  • 1983: World One Pocket Tournament Championship
  • 1989: Western States Nine-Ball Tournament Championship
  • 1997 & 1998: French Open Nine-Ball Tournament victories

His versatility is further highlighted by his success in winning tournaments across all major pool disciplines.

Contributions Beyond the Table

Beyond his playing career, DiLiberto became a beloved commentator for Accu-Stats Video Productions from 1989 to 2020, offering insightful analysis that enriched the viewing experience for fans worldwide. He also shared his life story in the autobiography “Road Player, the Danny DiLiberto Story,” providing an intimate look into his journey through sports and life.

Honors and Legacy

DiLiberto’s contributions to billiards have been recognized with several prestigious honors:

  • 2004: Inducted into the One Pocket Hall of Fame
  • 2011: Inducted into the Billiard Congress of America Hall of Fame
  • 2017: Inducted into the Greater Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame

His passing on February 11, 2025, in Florida, marked the end of an era for the billiards community. DiLiberto’s legacy as a champion, mentor, and ambassador of the game will continue to inspire future generations of players and fans alike.

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Learn more about Danny DiLiberto below

You can learn more about his life by searching for:

  • 🎥 Classic Pool Matches Featuring Danny DiLiberto: To find some of his most memorable games.
  • 🎤 Interviews with Danny DiLiberto: To gain insights from his perspectives on the game and its evolution.
  • 📺 Accu-Stats Commentary by Danny DiLiberto: To experience his engaging commentary that endeared him to fans.

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