83 years ago

Date: 8th April 1941

Venue: Arena, Saint Louis, Missouri

Title: World Heavyweight Title

Promoter: Mike Jacobs & Tom Packs

Tv:

Joe Louis
( 47 - 1 - 0 )
Weight: 203¼ lbs

Tony Musto
( 29 - 10 - 1 )
Weight: 199½ lbs

On April 8, 1941, at the Arena in Saint Louis, Missouri, Joe Louis made the sixteenth defence of his World Heavyweight Championship, facing Tony Musto in a scheduled 15-round bout. 

The match, overseen by referee Arthur Donovan and judges Al Graff and Mordie Wolf, saw Louis emerge victorious with a technical knockout over Musto at 1 minute and 36 seconds into the ninth round.

Originally slated to face Arturo Godoy for the third time, this time in Godoy's native Chile, the fight was called off due to logistical challenges. Musto, whom Godoy had previously defeated, was confirmed as Godoy's replacement on March 19, stepping into the ring to challenge Louis for the title.

Louis dominated the fight in front of 17,472 spectators, showcasing his superior skill and power. Musto, who had previously tasted defeat at the hands of Godoy, faced a formidable opponent in Louis. Despite Musto's resilience, Louis gradually asserted control over the match.

Louis demonstrated his dominance early on, knocking Musto down in the third round for a count of one, marking Musto's only trip to the canvas during the bout. Louis continued to land effective punches as the fight progressed, gradually wearing down his opponent.

Ultimately, the fight was stopped in the ninth round due to a cut over Musto's right eye, with Louis well ahead on points. The cut rendered Musto unable to continue, leading to Louis being declared the winner by technical knockout.

Louis's victory over Musto further solidified his status as one of the greatest heavyweight champions in boxing history, showcasing his skill, power, and dominance in the ring.