84 years ago
Henry Armstrong vs Jimmy Garrison II
Date: 11th December 1939
Title: World Welterweight Title
Promoter: Mike Jacobs
Henry Armstrong
(
101
-
12
-
7
)
Weight: 138¾ lbs
Jimmy Garrison
(
38
-
11
-
3
)
Weight: 141 lbs
On December 11, 1939, at The Arena in Cleveland, Ohio, the boxing world watched as the welterweight title fight between the reigning champion Henry Armstrong and the determined challenger Jimmy Garrison unfolded in front of them. This bout, promoted by the renowned Mike Jacobs and officiated by the legendary Benny Leonard, promised an evening of intense boxing action. Armstrong, entering the ring at 139 lbs, carried an impressive record of 101 wins, 12 losses, and seven draws. Garrison, weighing in at 141 lbs, came in with 38 wins, 11 losses, and three draws.
The two fighters had faced off at the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles, California, just under two months prior. Armstrong had secured a victory in that match by winning on points after ten gruelling rounds. This rematch was eagerly anticipated, with fans curious to see if Garrison could turn the tide against the relentless Armstrong.
From the first bell, Armstrong set a blistering pace, showcasing his trademark aggressive style. He dominated the opening rounds, winning every exchange except for the second, which was even. Garrison, despite being cut around both eyes early in the bout, displayed remarkable resilience, continuing to punch back and stay in the fight. However, Armstrong's relentless assault began to take its toll.
By the fifth and sixth rounds, Garrison's legs were visibly unsteady, a clear indication that Armstrong's powerful blows were wearing him down. Armstrong's combinations were precise and punishing, leaving Garrison struggling to maintain his footing. The seventh round proved to be the decisive moment. Armstrong delivered a devastating left hook followed by a right hand to Garrison's chin, sending him crashing to the canvas for a nine-count. Garrison bravely rose to his feet, but Armstrong was relentless. A similar left-right combination floored Garrison once more, and this time, referee Benny Leonard saw no need to count, declaring Armstrong the winner by knockout at 1:19 in the seventh round.