Pioneering African-American heavyweight champion whose ring brilliance, courage and refusal to serve in World War I made him a complex and controversial symbol of racial boundaries in early twentieth-century sport.
Jack Johnson was the first Black heavyweight champion of the world, winning the title in 1908 against Tommy Burns and defending it for seven years against all challengers. A brilliant boxer who used shoulder rolls, footwork, and counterpunching long before these techniques became fashionable, Johnson was a dominant champion whose greatness was inseparable from the racial politics of his era. He remains one of boxing's most significant and groundbreaking figures.
First African American heavyweight champion
How They Played
Defensive counterpuncher with excellent ring IQ
Lasting Impact
Broke racial barriers in boxing, controversial figure who challenged social norms