Date: 27th March 1942
Venue: Madison Square Garden, New York, USA
Title: World Heavyweight Title
Promoter: Mike Jacobs
Tv:
Joe Louis
(
52
-
1
-
0
)
Weight: 207½ lbs
Abe Simon
(
36
-
9
-
1
)
Weight: 255¼ lbs
On March 27, 1942, Madison Square Garden hosted a historic boxing match that would mark yet another chapter in the illustrious career of Joe Louis, the "Brown Bomber." Facing off against the towering Abe Simon, who weighed in at 255 pounds, Louis, at 207 pounds, defended his World Heavyweight Championship for the 21st time with a resounding technical knockout just 16 seconds into the sixth round.
This fight was not just another title defence for Louis; it demonstrated his unmatched skill, power, and determination. Coming into the bout as a heavy 15-1 betting favourite, Louis lived up to the expectations, delivering a performance that solidified his status as one of the greatest heavyweight champions in boxing history.
The anticipation for this fight was immense. Abe Simon, ranked No. 4 in the NBA (National Boxing Association) rankings following his first encounter with Louis, was a formidable opponent. Despite only securing two victories against unranked opponents since their initial meeting, Simon's size and strength posed a significant challenge. However, Louis, known for his exceptional punching power and tactical acumen, was unfazed.
The match drew a crowd of 18,220 spectators, generating a gross gate of $132,420 and a net of $114,705. In a gesture that spoke volumes about the character of the men involved, the fight raised $64,980.02 for the Army Emergency Relief Fund. Louis donated his entire purse of $36,146. At the same time, promoter Mike Jacobs, Madison Square Garden, and Simon contributed significantly, showcasing the boxing community's support for the war effort during World War II.
From the onset, Louis dominated the bout. Simon was floored late in the second and fifth rounds, each time saved by the bell, showcasing Louis' relentless attack and Simon's resilience. However, the beginning of the sixth round saw Louis deliver a decisive blow that again dropped Simon. Referee Eddie Joseph counted Simon out, despite the challenger's protest that he was up by the count of nine. The technical knockout victory was a testament to Louis' power and precision.
This fight was notably Louis' first professional bout without his long-time trainer, Jack Blackburn, who was hospitalised in Chicago and would pass away the following month. The absence of Blackburn, a key figure in Louis' corner, added emotional weight to the victory and highlighted Louis' ability to adapt and overcome adversity.
The victory over Simon would mark the last time Louis would defend his title before a hiatus due to his service in the Army during World War II. He would not defend his title again for four years and three months, a pause that only added to the legend of his reign as champion.