Jack Johnson

Nicknamed the “Galveston Giant”, Jack Johnson was the son of former slaves and arguably the best heavyweight boxer of his generation.

Born in Galveston, Texas in 1878, Johnson fought his first bout, a 16-round victory, at age 15. In 1897, he turned professional in Springfield, Illinois).

In 1901 he moved to California, taking up residence in Bakersfield and climbing the ranks of the up-and-coming heavyweight circuit.

Johnson won his first title in 1903, defeating “Denver” Ed Martin for the unofficial Colored Heavyweight Championship, but Johnson was determined to become the Heavyweight Champion of the World.

On December 26, 1908, the color line was finally broken when Johnson defeated Tommy Burns to win the heavyweight crown. Johnson later would lose the titel but regained the championship in a landmark fight against long-time rival James Jefferies. In 1912, Johnson defeated Jim Flynn for his third world title.

Johnson’s overall record included 79 wins (44 by knockout) against eight losses and 12 draws.

He died in 1946 at age 68 following an automobile accident. Johnson was honored as a charter member of the Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.