On this day: Jack Dempsey dropped his rival seven times in the opening round.
In his esteemed career, ‘The Manassa Mauler’ proved himself as one of boxing’s most entertaining fighters, regularly thrilling fans with his all-action style.
The icon produced many an outstanding performance during his run in the sport.
But one in particular stands out from the pack.
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Jack Dempsey dropped Jess Willard seven times in a round
On July 4, 2019, Jack Dempsey challenged Jess Willard for the world heavyweight championship at Bay View Park Arena in Toledo, Ohio, USA.
At 6ft6, his rival had a five-inch height advantage over him, but as soon as they started trading, that perceived edge was rendered irrelevant.
In a stunning moment, Dempsey unleashed a thunderous left hand, sending his opponent crashing towards the canvas.
After that, the floodgates opened, with the challenger dropping his foe seven times inside the very first round.
Somehow, in a testament to his fighting heart, Willard survived the following two segments before being pulled out at the end of the third.
The commentator explained: “Willard can’t come out for the fourth round, his nose and cheekbones are fractured, ribs broken, half a dozen teeth knocked out, and he can hardly raise and shake hands with his conqueror.”
Jack Dempsey knocked out World War I hero in boxing’s first ‘Fight of the Century’
The victory over Willard was truly spectacular.
However, it’s not the only significant win the icon has on his record.
In a tremendous display, Willard won the first ‘Fight of the Century’.