2. Joe Louis (66-3, 52 KOs)
Joe Louis helped break down racial prejudice and became an American hero during uncertain times surrounding World War 2.
Louis had all the makings of a grand champion. He had looks, skills, speed, and power. His professional career started towards the end of the Great Depression. The heavyweight title was in flux since the retirement of Tunney in 1928. The Great Depression turned all facets of life upside down, including sports and boxing.
Louis didn’t gain possession of the heavyweight title easily. He suffered a significant setback when he was knocked out by Germany’s Max Schmeling in 1936. Hitler used Schmeling’s victory to add fuel to the fire of his racist Nazi propaganda.
Louis learned a lot from his loss to Schmeling and easily stopped James J. Braddock in 1937 to become the heavyweight champion. The world had its eyes on Louis when he fought Schmeling in a rematch in 1938. The fight pitted American democracy and freedom against Nazi prejudice and evil.
Louis rose to the challenge and annihilated Schmeling in one round. He became a national hero and mythical presence forever. Louis lived up to the hype and defeated many notable boxers including Max Baer, John Henry Lewis, Billy Conn, and Jersey Joe Walcott.
Louis lost some of his prime years due to World War 2 but made his country proud. Unfortunately, his country didn’t return the favor, taxing him on the income he donated to the war effort. Louis never recovered financially from his debt to the IRS.
He fought long after his best years for income and lost bouts to Ezzard Charles and Rocky Marciano in the process. Louis shouldn’t be judged on the final fights of his career, but on the bulk of his dominance during the late 30s and early 40s.