85 years ago

Date: 28th June 1939

Venue: Yankee Stadium, The Bronx, New York

Title: World Heavyweight Title

Promoter: Mike Jacobs

Tv:

Joe Louis
( 38 - 1 - 0 )
Weight: 200¾ lbs

Tony Galento
( 74 - 7 - 0 )
Weight: 233¾ lbs

In a battle that tested the resolve and resilience of both fighters, Joe Louis successfully defended his World Heavyweight Championship against the courageous Tony Galento on June 28, 1939, at Yankee Stadium in The Bronx, New York. Despite Galento's valiant effort and tenacity, Louis emerged victorious with a fourth-round TKO, cementing his status as one of boxing's greatest champions.

The fight, which drew a crowd of 34,852 spectators, showcased the fearless determination of both competitors. Galento, known for his colourful personality and unyielding fighting style, entered the ring with a promise to "moider da bum," expressing his confidence in his ability to dethrone Louis.
From the opening bell, Galento lived up to his bold proclamation, refusing to take a backward step as he traded blows with the reigning champion. Despite sustaining significant damage to his face early in the contest, Galento unleashed a barrage of powerful punches, momentarily stunning Louis with a thunderous left hook in the third round.

Louis, who had dispatched his previous opponents quickly and decisively, faced one of his career's toughest challenges. Galento's relentless pressure and unrelenting aggression tested Louis's resolve, forcing the champion to dig deep and showcase his championship mettle.

In sheer determination, Louis weathered the storm and unleashed a devastating assault on Galento in the fourth round. Utilising his superior boxing skills and devastating punching power, Louis battered Galento along the ropes, delivering punishing blows that left the challenger battered and defenceless.

Despite Galento's courageous effort to continue fighting, referee Arthur Donovan was forced to intervene and stop the contest at 2:29 of the fourth round. Galento needed help to defend himself effectively against Louis's relentless onslaught.

Following the bout, Louis acknowledged his opponent's toughness, declaring it the most brutal fight of his career. Despite Galento's defeat, his fearless performance earned him the respect and admiration of the crowd, as he demonstrated unwavering courage and determination in the face of adversity.

With his victory over Galento, Louis continued his reign as the undisputed heavyweight champion of the world, further solidifying his legacy as one of boxing's all-time greats. As he celebrated another successful title defence, Louis looked ahead to future challenges, knowing that his path to greatness would be defined by his ability to overcome adversity and emerge victorious against the most formidable opponents.