Jess Willard
American professional boxer
Born
December 29th, 1881
143 years ago
Died
December 15th, 1968
56 years ago — 86 years old
Category
Athletes & Sports Figures
Country
United States
Links & References
Born in 1881, a professional boxer competed from 1910 to 1923. Held the World Heavyweight Championship from 1915 to 1919, becoming the first heavyweight champion to knock out Jack Johnson. Notable for his height and reach, he gained recognition during the boxing boom of the early 20th century. Fought in prominent matches against contenders such as Gene Tunney and Jack Dempsey, the latter resulting in a significant title defense.
Won the World Heavyweight Championship
Defeated Jack Johnson to become champion
Fought Jack Dempsey in a title defense
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