Hall of Fame Professional Boxer. Considered by many as being one of the greatest technical fighters in the history of the sport, with an impressive physique to match, he was the former World Light-Heavyweight Champion from 1962 until 1963. Born in Philadelphia, Johnson began boxing while serving in the United States Navy. After turning professional in 1947, he won twelve straight decisions before he was defeated by Archie Moore in 1949. During the course of his career, Johnson fought Moore five-times and lost four out of five contests to the world champion. In 1961, he earned another chance at a title fight and defeated Jesse Bowdry for the vacant National Boxing Association Light Heavyweight crown. Johnson was recognized as the undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion, when he won a decision over Doug Jones on May 12, 1962. He successfully defended his title once, before relinquishing the belt to Willie Pastrano in 1963. He spent the remainder of his career fighting lesser-known opponents and retired in 1971 after compiling a 76 win (32 knockouts) and 11 loss record. Among the other notable boxers Johnson fought during his career include Jersey Joe Walcott, Ezzard Charles and Eddie Cotton. Johnson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993 and is a member of the World Boxing Hall of Fame.
Hall of Fame Professional Boxer. Considered by many as being one of the greatest technical fighters in the history of the sport, with an impressive physique to match, he was the former World Light-Heavyweight Champion from 1962 until 1963. Born in Philadelphia, Johnson began boxing while serving in the United States Navy. After turning professional in 1947, he won twelve straight decisions before he was defeated by Archie Moore in 1949. During the course of his career, Johnson fought Moore five-times and lost four out of five contests to the world champion. In 1961, he earned another chance at a title fight and defeated Jesse Bowdry for the vacant National Boxing Association Light Heavyweight crown. Johnson was recognized as the undisputed Light Heavyweight Champion, when he won a decision over Doug Jones on May 12, 1962. He successfully defended his title once, before relinquishing the belt to Willie Pastrano in 1963. He spent the remainder of his career fighting lesser-known opponents and retired in 1971 after compiling a 76 win (32 knockouts) and 11 loss record. Among the other notable boxers Johnson fought during his career include Jersey Joe Walcott, Ezzard Charles and Eddie Cotton. Johnson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1993 and is a member of the World Boxing Hall of Fame.
Bio by: C.S.
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