Boxing Only


86 years ago

Joe Louis vs Harry Thomas

Date: 1st April 1938

Venue: Chicago Stadium, Chicago, Illinois

Title: World Heavyweight Title

Promoter: Mike Jacobs

Tv:

Joe Louis
( 34 - 1 - 0 )
Weight: 202½ lbs

Harry Thomas
( 40 - 11 - 2 )
Weight: 196 lbs


In a dominant display, heavyweight champion Joe Louis delivered a resounding knockout victory over challenger Harry Thomas on April 1, 1938, at the Chicago Stadium in Illinois, USA. The bout, which marked Louis's third defence of his World Heavyweight Championship, showcased his formidable skills and set the stage for a highly anticipated rematch with Max Schmeling.

From the opening bell, it was clear Louis was in top form, his trademark intensity evident as he squared off against his rugged challenger. Despite Thomas's tenacity and resilience, Louis's superior technique and devastating power quickly asserted dominance in the ring.

In the third round, Louis stunned Thomas with a blistering left hook, setting the stage for the dramatic conclusion that would unfold in the subsequent rounds. As the fight progressed, Louis unleashed a relentless assault, flooring Thomas on four occasions in the fourth round alone.

Undeterred by his punishment, Thomas continued to press forward, demonstrating remarkable courage and determination. However, Louis's precision strikes and calculated aggression proved too much for the brave challenger to overcome.

In the fifth round, Louis delivered the decisive blow that sealed Thomas's fate, unleashing a barrage of left hooks that left his opponent battered and defenceless. As Thomas crumpled to the canvas, the referee counted him out, marking the first time in his illustrious career that he had been knocked out.

Louis's victory was acclaimed as fans marvelled at his dominance and skill inside the ring. With the win, Louis further solidified his status as one of the greatest heavyweight champions ever, setting the stage for his highly anticipated rematch with Max Schmeling.

In the bout's aftermath, Louis wasted no time on his upcoming showdown with Schmeling, the only man to defeat him thus far in his career. Confident in his abilities, Louis expressed his determination to emerge victorious in their upcoming rematch, vowing to avenge his previous defeat and reclaim his rightful place atop the heavyweight division.

As Louis celebrated his triumph in the ring, anticipation continued to build for his highly anticipated rematch with Schmeling, set to take place on June 22. With his indomitable spirit and unparalleled skill, Louis stood poised once again to etch his name into the annals of boxing history, leaving an indelible legacy that would endure for generations.




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