On this date in 1910, First Black heavyweight champion, Jack Johnson successfully defended his heavy weight title against former champion James “The Great White Hope” Jeffries, who had come out of retirement “to win back the title for the White race,” in what was called the “Fight of the Century.” The bout took place in Reno, Nevada, and ended in the 15th round when Jeffries’ corner threw in the towel.
Jack Johnson’s victory was a significant moment in sports and racial history, as it shattered the idea that white fighters were superior and sparked both celebration and racial tensions across the U.S. His dominance in the ring and defiance of societal norms made him a controversial but legendary figure in boxing history.
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