87 years ago

Date: 22nd June 1937

Venue: Comiskey Park, Chicago, Illinois

Title: NBA & NYSAC World Heavyweight Title

Promoter: Mike Jacobs

Tv:

Joe Louis
( 31 - 1 - 0 )
Weight: 197¼ lbs

Jim Braddock
( 50 - 25 - 7 )
Weight: 197 lbs

In the annals of boxing history, few bouts have captured the imagination of fight fans, like the showdown between Joe Louis and Jim Braddock for the World Heavyweight Championship. Set against the backdrop of Comiskey Park in Chicago, Illinois, on June 22, 1937, this epic encounter would etch itself into the collective memory of boxing enthusiasts for generations to come.

Braddock, a gritty underdog, had ascended to the pinnacle of the sport dramatically, clinching the title from Max Baer in a monumental upset back in 1935. Baer, known for his lethal punching power, was a formidable opponent, making Braddock's victory remarkable. Meanwhile, Louis, a rising star in the boxing world, had suffered a setback against Max Schmeling the year prior but was eager to reclaim his place among the sport's elite.

The stage was set for a clash of titans as Braddock and Louis squared off in the ring, with the World Heavyweight Championship on the line. Promoter Mike Jacobs, representing Louis, had brokered a lucrative deal with Braddock, convincing him to forego a scheduled bout with Schmeling in favour of facing Louis. The stakes were high, with both fighters poised to leave an indelible mark on boxing history.

As the bell rang to signal the start of the bout, anticipation hung thick in the air, palpable among the throng of spectators gathered at Comiskey Park. In a stunning turn of events, Braddock made an early statement, flooring Louis with a thunderous right uppercut in the opening minutes of the fight. However, Louis quickly recovered, demonstrating his resilience and determination as he seized control of the bout.

Despite Braddock's valiant efforts, Louis dictated the pace of the contest, unleashing a relentless onslaught of punches that left his opponent reeling. Louis imposed his will on Braddock round after round, his superior speed and technique proving too much for the reigning champion to handle.

Braddock's corner grew increasingly concerned as the fight continued, with manager Joe Gould contemplating throwing in the towel to spare his fighter further punishment. However, Braddock, displaying the heart of a true champion, refused to concede defeat, insisting on continuing the battle.

In a pivotal moment in the eighth round, Louis delivered a devastating combination, culminating in a blistering right hand that sent Braddock crashing to the canvas. With Braddock unable to rise before the referee's count of ten, Louis emerged victorious, winning the World Heavyweight Championship.

Braddock, gracious in defeat, paid tribute to his opponent's skill and power, acknowledging the decisive blow that sealed his fate. Braddock reflected on the bout: "When he hit me with that left-right combination, I could've stayed down on the canvas for three weeks."

For Louis, the victory marked the beginning of a historic reign as champion, which would span twelve years and include an unprecedented twenty-five title defences. His legacy as one of boxing's all-time greats was cemented that fateful night at Comiskey Park, forever immortalising his name in the annals of the sport.

Ultimately, the clash between Louis and Braddock is a testament to the timeless allure of boxing