James Braddock vs. Joe Louis ~ June 22, 1937 ~ 'The Skinny'

[Bill Paxtom]

Predictions {Chicago tribune Sports Writers}

Harold Conrad >
"This Louis fellow. He's like a 'Tan Tarzan'. He's both muscular and flexible.
Now the Champion {James Braddock} is no softy, but he is going to get
knocked out. I have to go with what the consensus says, Joe Louis by
a Knockout. {KO in 8}."

Arch Ward >
"Joe Louis by Knockout. Within 6-Rounds. If it goes longer, I will eat my hat."

Frank Lane >
"James Braddock by a Knockout in 8. I'm not all that excited about this man they
call 'The Brown Bomber'. He's on the slow side, and he's too mechanical. The
Champion {James Braddock} will set him up, and catch him coming in with a
right-hand to the chops and stop him."

Wilfrid Smith >
"I know that Braddock is superbly conditioned. But this kid {Joe Louis} throws
punches like a 'Cannon' going off. He's just too powerful. The Challenger by a
Knockout in 6."

Red Garrett >
"If Joe Louis loses, then he must be the 'most overrated' fighter ever. The Champion
{James Braddock} is a quality fighter, but he really is 'untested' at Heavyweight. Oh,
he will give a good account of himself for as long-as-it-lasts. But the Challenger has
too much ammunition. I'm confident that Joe Louis will win by a stoppage. It will
go no longer than 9-Rounds. I can see Braddock's corner throwing in the towel."