[tps_header]1. Joe Louis[/tps_header]
Landing at No. 1 on our list is “The Brown Bomber”, Joe Louis (69-3, 57 KOs).
Louis was born in Lafayette, Alabama in 1914 and reigned as Heavyweight champion for 12 years and defended the title a record 25 times (per Wikipedia).
Louis enjoyed victories over Primo Carnera, Max Schmeling, Billy Con and “The Cinderella Man” James Braddock.
His trademark left hook is regarded as one of, if not the most powerful punches in the history of the sport. In fact, in 2003 Ring Magazine ranked Louis the number 1 greatest puncher of all time.
During a tumultuous time in American history, Louis fought through stereotypes and with his likeable demeanor gave people of all walks someone to root for. Louis was a patriot, a cultural icon and an all-around champion.
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