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Boxer Jack Johnson (1878-1946) was the first African American to hold the title of heavyweight boxing champion of the world. He won the title by knocking out Tommy Burns, a Canadian boxer, in Sydney, Australia, in 1908. In the racist climate of the times, Johnson's victory was denigrated as a fluke, leading boxing promoters to search for a "Great White Hope" to regain the title. He defended the championship against white challengers four times before eventually losing it in 1915.
jack_johnsom_2024_50
Boxer Jack Johnson (1878-1946) was the first African American to hold the title of heavyweight boxing champion of the world. He won the title by knocking out Tommy Burns, a Canadian boxer, in Sydney, Australia, in 1908. In the racist climate of the times, Johnson's victory was denigrated as a fluke, leading boxing promoters to search for a "Great White Hope" to regain the title. He defended the championship against white challengers four times before eventually losing it in 1915.