Jersey Joe Walcott Born 94 Years Ago

Jersey Walcott was born on this day, 94 years ago in Merchantville, New Jersey, who would become an outstanding boxing figure in the ring.

His real name was Arnold Raymond Cream, better known as Jersey Joe Walcott, was a heavyweight world champion during 1951 and 1952.

He debuted as a professional boxer in 1930, and built a record of 53 wins, 18 losses and 1 draw.

His first opportunity to fight for a world title was on December 5, 1947, against the legendary Joe Louis, whom he knocked down a couple of times, however, Walcott lost by Split Decision after 15 rounds of fight.

The rematch fight came one year later, however this time Louis erased any doubt and won by KO.

On June 22, 1949 arrived his second chance to fight for the world title after the retirement of his executioner Louis, and had to face Ezzard Charles who won by decision in 15 round.

The rematch came with the same result in March 1951. However, the third title opportunity was in July of that year, and this time Walcott came out with arms raised after knocking Charles out in seven rounds.

By that time, Walcott was already 37 years old, and became the oldest boxer to become heavyweight world champion.
He lost the title against Rocky Marciano who knocked him out on September 23, 1952.

Walcott retired from boxing, but remained bound to boxing as judge, commentator and manager until his death in his hometown in 1994.