Billy the Kid Billy the Kid Billy the Kid (born Henry McCarty September 17 or November 23, 1859July 14, 1881, also known as William H. Bonney) was an American Old West outlaw and gunfighter who killed eight men before he was shot and killed at age 21. He took part in New Mexico's Lincoln County War, during which he allegedly committed three murders. McCarty was orphaned at age 14. The owner of a boarding house gave him a room in exchange for work. His first arrest was for stealing food at age 16 in late 1875. Ten days later, he robbed a Chinese
Luther McCarty Luther (or Lute as he was known) made his pro debut at the age of 18 against Watt Adams on January 7, 1911, winning by 2nd round KO. He then went on to face legendary iron-chinned Joe Grim in his next fight, earning a draw spending his energy in trying to kayo the "toughest man on earth". McCarty finished 1911 with six more fights, winning all but one by knockout. Continuing to fight in 1912, McCarty beat future heavyweight contender Carl Morris by way of a sixth round knockout in only his 13th fight. Almost instantly rumor spread of McCarty'