Jack Johnson: history, height, weight, age, wealth

Brief summary of the article

Element	Detail
Name	Jack Johnson
Size	1,84 m
Weight	Approximately 91 kg
Age	Born on 31 March 1878
Fortune	Fluctuating, but considerable for its time

Introduction

So, have you ever heard of Jack Johnson, the first black heavyweight champion of the world? This guy was a real legend in the ring, but his story goes way beyond boxing. He broke barriers, defied social norms, and lived his life like a true rebel. If you want to know more about his life, his career, and even how much he weighed or measured, you've come to the right place. Get ready to immerse yourself in the fascinating story of one of the greatest boxers of all time.

Jack Johnson: His story, height, weight, age, wealth

Jack Johnson, born on 31 March 1878 in Galveston, Texas, was much more than just a boxer. He was the symbol of an era, a pioneer in a world where racism was rife. At 1.84 m tall and weighing around 91 kg, he was a force of nature, dominating the ring with his unique style. But statistics aside, it was his cultural and social impact that made him unforgettable.

The meteoric rise of Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson began his boxing career in the early 1900s, at a time when racial segregation was still rife in the United States. Right from the start, he showed that he was a talent in a class of his own. He won one victory after another, but it was in 1908, when he beat Tommy Burns to become the first black heavyweight champion of the world, that he truly became a legend. His victory shook America, and not just the boxing world.

An extravagant lifestyle

Jack Johnson was known not only for his skills in the ring, but also for his flamboyant lifestyle. He loved fast cars, elegant clothes, and he made no secret of his relationships with white women, which was extremely controversial at the time. His fortune, although difficult to put a precise figure on, was significant. He spent lavishly, living a life of luxury that made headlines.

Legendary battles

Of Jack Johnson's many memorable fights, the one against James J. Jeffries in 1910 is undoubtedly the most famous. Jeffries, nicknamed "The Great White Hope", had come out of retirement to try and "restore dignity to the white race". But Johnson dominated him easily, proving that he was the better man, whatever the colour of his skin. This fight marked a turning point in the history of boxing and had a huge social impact.

Challenges outside the ring

Jack Johnson's life was not easy, even after he became world champion. He was often persecuted by the authorities and the media because of his skin colour and lifestyle. In 1913, he was accused of transporting a white woman across state lines for "immoral" purposes, a charge widely regarded as racially motivated. He fled the United States and spent several years in exile in Europe and South America.

The return and the end of one's career

Finally, Jack Johnson returned to the United States in 1920 to serve his prison sentence. After his release, he continued to fight, but without recapturing the glory of his younger days. He also tried his hand at other businesses, but without much success. His boxing career officially ended in 1938, but he continued to make public appearances and live on his own terms until his death in 1946.

The legacy of Jack Johnson

Jack Johnson's legacy goes far beyond sport. He paved the way for other black athletes and inspired an entire generation to challenge racial norms. In 2018, more than 70 years after his death, he was posthumously pardoned by the US President, a belated but deserved recognition for a man who had sacrificed so much.

Conclusion

Jack Johnson wasn't just a boxer, he was a revolutionary. He challenged the status quo, both in and out of the ring, and his impact is still felt today. His story is one of a man who, despite the obstacles, always chose to live his life to the full, without compromise. A true model of courage and determination. Manny Pacquiao isn't just a boxing champion; he's a champion of life: the ability to anticipate, adapt and strike at the right moment.

Sources : Boxing Wiki

See also : Official veterans' website