American boxing champion Jimmy Lyggett led Croatia's team in the NDH

Jimmy Lyggett, an American Black boxer who achieved prominence in the United States, later sought stronger competition in Europe and eventually led the boxing team within the Independent State of Croatia (NDH).

Lyggett, often clad in a white silk raincoat and a French cap, was a familiar sight on the streets of Zagreb. His amiable nature and constant smile were noted by older residents. During hot summer days, he could frequently be observed at the Hotel Esplanade's terrace or the iconic Corso cafe, sipping black coffee and perusing international newspapers. This distinguished appearance belied his past as one of the most respected boxers and later boxing coaches in Europe and the world during the interwar period.

His name attained mythical status, first in Croatia and subsequently within the NDH. Lyggett's influence extended beyond his personal achievements; he played a crucial role in the development of Croatian boxing. His journey from American boxing rings to coaching in a European wartime state highlights a unique and often overlooked chapter in sports history.

While his early career saw him as a formidable competitor, his later years were dedicated to nurturing talent and shaping the future of the sport in a region grappling with significant political upheaval. Lyggett's legacy is intertwined with the history of boxing in Croatia, marking him as a significant figure in the nation's sporting past.