Jack Johnson, byname of John Arthur Johnson, (born March 31, 1878, Galveston, Texas, U.S.—died June 10, 1946, Raleigh, N.C.), American boxer who was the first African American to become heavyweight champion. He is considered by many boxing observers to be one of the greatest heavyweights of all time.
Johnson fought professionally from 1897 to 1928 and engaged in exhibition matches as late as 1945. He won the title by knocking out champion Tommy Burns in Sydney on December 26, 1908, and lost it on a knockout by Jess Willard in 26 rounds in Havana on April 5, 1915. Until his fight with Burns, racial discrimination had limited Johnson’s opportunities and purses. When he became champion, a hue and cry for a “Great White Hope” produced numerous opponents.
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Posted By: Deacon Ron Gray
Friday, March 31st 2023 at 6:19PM
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