Contents
Athlete
Joe Louis
Famoose for
Holding the world heavyweight boxing title from 1937 to 1949.
World title · Schmeling rematch
- Born
- 13 May 1914
- Birthplace
- LaFayette, United States
- Died
- 12 April 1981
More people
Joe Louis
Joe Louis was an American boxer whose championship reign made him both a sporting and public figure.
Early life
Alabama and Detroit
Moved north with his family during childhood.
Early boxing
Developed through amateur competition.
Career
- 1934
Professional debut
Began a rapid rise.
- 1937–1949
Heavyweight champion
Defended the world title repeatedly.
- Later career
Comeback
Returned to boxing amid financial difficulties.
Achievements
World title
Defeated James J. Braddock.
Schmeling rematch
Won by first-round knockout.
Twenty-five defences
Established an exceptional championship record.
Beyond boxing
Military service
Served in the US Army during the Second World War.
Financial hardship
Faced a large tax debt after his career.
Sources & photo credit
Life, career and references ↗Photo: Carl Van Vechten. Public domain · Original image. Cropped and displayed in monochrome.
