87 years ago

Date: 30th August 1937

Venue: Yankee Stadium, The Bronx, New York

Title: NYSAC World Heavy

Promoter: Mike Jacobs

Tv:

Joe Louis
( 32 - 1 - 0 )
Weight: 197 lbs

Tommy Farr
( 73 - 24 - 19 )
Weight: 204¼ lbs

Joe Louis and Tommy Farr met at Yankee Stadium in The Bronx, New York, on August 30, 1937, for the World Heavyweight Championship. This clash captivated fight fans and is remembered mainly for Farr's brave showing against a heavily favoured champion in his prime.

In his first title defence, Louis was cheered on by fans eager to witness his prowess in action. Meanwhile, Farr, hailing from Wales, stood poised to test Louis's mettle in the ultimate test of skill and determination.

From the opening bell, it was clear that both fighters were prepared to leave it all on the canvas, each vying for supremacy in the ring. Louis, known for his devastating power and precision, sought to assert his dominance early on. At the same time, Farr, undeterred by the odds stacked against him, fought valiantly to seize the championship crown.

Despite the intensity of the battle, neither fighter managed to secure a decisive advantage, as rounds passed with both men trading blows in a display of courage and resilience. The absence of knockdowns only served to heighten the drama, as each round brought its twists and turns, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.

As the bout progressed into the championship rounds, tension reached a fever pitch, with the title's fate hanging in the balance. Louis, ever the consummate professional, continued to press forward, unleashing a barrage of punches in his quest for victory. Farr, refusing to back down, matched his opponent blow for blow, displaying a tenacity that belied his underdog status.

When the final bell tolled, signalling the end of fifteen gruelling rounds, both fighters stood battered but unbowed, having left everything they had inside the ring. In a testament to their skill and determination, the judges' scorecards reflected a closely contested battle, with Louis ultimately emerging victorious by unanimous decision.

Referee Arthur Donovan, along with judges Billy 'Kid' McPartland and Charley Lynch, awarded Louis a commanding margin of rounds won, underscoring his dominance throughout the bout. While Farr had proven himself a worthy adversary, Louis retained his title and secured his place at the heavyweight division's pinnacle.

The bout, witnessed by a crowd of 36,903 spectators, generated substantial revenue, with gross receipts totalling $265,753.11. The victor Louis earned a handsome purse of $112,987.52, while Farr received $60,000 for his valiant effort.

In the aftermath of the fight, both fighters garnered praise for their skill and sportsmanship, with Louis's victory solidifying his status as one of the greatest heavyweight champions ever. For Farr, the bout represented a gallant effort against impossible odds, earning fans' respect and admiration worldwide.