Joe Louis
Joe Louis (May 13, 1914 – April 12, 1981), born Joseph Louis Barrow, was an American professional boxer who competed from 1934 to 1951. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweight boxers of all time. Louis held the World Heavyweight Championship from 1937 to 1949, and his championship reign lasted 140 consecutive months, during which he participated in 26 championship fights.
Early Life[edit | edit source]
Joe Louis was born in Lafayette, Alabama, to Munroe Barrow and Lillie Barrow. He was the seventh of eight children. His family moved to Detroit, Michigan when he was a child, where he began his amateur boxing career.
Amateur Career[edit | edit source]
Louis had a successful amateur career, winning the national AAU light heavyweight title in 1934. His amateur record was 50-4, with 43 knockouts.
Professional Career[edit | edit source]
Louis turned professional in 1934 and quickly rose through the ranks. He won his first 27 fights, 23 by knockout. His first professional loss came in 1936 against Max Schmeling, but he avenged this defeat in a rematch in 1938, knocking out Schmeling in the first round.
World Heavyweight Champion[edit | edit source]
Joe Louis won the World Heavyweight Championship on June 22, 1937, by defeating James J. Braddock. He successfully defended his title 25 times, a record that still stands. Some of his notable defenses include victories over Billy Conn, Jersey Joe Walcott, and Max Baer.
Military Service[edit | edit source]
During World War II, Louis enlisted in the United States Army and served in a segregated unit. He participated in numerous exhibition matches to boost troop morale and promote the sale of war bonds.
Later Career and Retirement[edit | edit source]
Louis retired in 1949 but made a brief comeback in 1950. He fought his last professional bout in 1951 against Rocky Marciano, losing by knockout. After retiring from boxing, Louis faced financial difficulties and worked various jobs, including as a professional wrestler and a casino greeter.
Legacy[edit | edit source]
Joe Louis is remembered not only for his achievements in the ring but also for his impact on American society. He was a symbol of hope and pride for African Americans during a time of racial segregation and discrimination. Louis was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.
Personal Life[edit | edit source]
Louis was married four times and had several children. He struggled with financial and health issues later in life, including drug addiction and heart problems. He died of cardiac arrest on April 12, 1981, and was buried in Arlington National Cemetery.
Related Pages[edit | edit source]
- Boxing
- World Heavyweight Championship
- Max Schmeling
- Rocky Marciano
- International Boxing Hall of Fame
References[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
Template:World Heavyweight Champions
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