On this date in 1910, Jack Johnson, the first Black heavyweight boxing champion, made history by successfully defending his title against Jim “The Great White Hope” Jeffries. Jeffries, who had come out of retirement with the intention of reclaiming the championship “for the White race,” was knocked out in the 15th round, solidifying Johnson’s dominance in the ring.

The fight, held in Reno, Nevada, became a significant moment in both sports and social history, as Johnson’s victory was seen as a challenge to the racial prejudices and tensions of the time. His win brought him both fame and controversy, with many seeing him as a symbol of defiance against racial inequality. The fight was widely publicized and remains one of the most iconic in boxing history.