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Joe Gans
Joe Gans
Joe Gans
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Joe Gans (born Joseph Saifus Butts; November 25, 1874 – August 10, 1910) was an American professional boxer.[1][2][3] Gans was rated the greatest lightweight boxer of all time[4] by boxing historian and Ring Magazine founder Nat Fleischer. Known as the "Old Master," Gans became the first African-American world boxing champion of the 20th century, reigning continuously as world lightweight champion from 1902 to 1908, defending the title 15 times against 13 other boxers.[5] He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.

Key Information

Life and career

[edit]

Early life

[edit]

Gans was born as Joseph Gant on November 25, 1874 in Baltimore, MD. He started boxing professionally in 1891 in Baltimore.[6]

Two fights in one day

[edit]

On January 7, 1895, after knocking out Samuel Allen in three rounds, Allen's second, Bud Brown, immediately challenged Gans. Not backing down from a fight, Gans accepted and outpointed Brown in a 10-round points decision.[citation needed]

Title bouts

[edit]

On March 3, 1900, at the Broadway Athletic Club in New York City, Gans quit with an eye injury in the twelfth round and lost via TKO while challenging lightweight champion Frank Erne in Gans' first title fight.

However, in their rematch two years later at the International A.C. in Fort Erie, Ontario, Gans knocked Erne out in one round to convincingly take the world lightweight title. "In the exchange, Gans got both hands to head, and Erne seemed a trifle dazed. Gans felt him out with a left shove to the face, drawing blood to nose. Erne seemed dazed, and Gans rushed and exchanged, putting right plump on Erne's jaw. Erne fell slowly to the floor with his mouth and nose bleeding, rolled over on his stomach, and was counted out before he could attempt to regain his feet."[7] Gans had thus become the first-ever U.S.-born African-American boxing champion. (Canadian-born black George Dixon had won the world bantamweight title in 1892,[8] and Barbados Joe Walcott had won the world welterweight title in 1901,[9] but neither of them was U.S.-born.) Gans reigned as champion from 1902 to 1908.

On January 6, 1902, Gans defeated the former world welterweight champion, Canadian-born Eddie Connolly, in a five-round bout at the Washington Sports Club in Philadelphia.

One reporter noted that Connolly "did nothing but hug and wrestle, adding variety to his performance in the third by deliberately trying to butt the Baltimorean [Gans]." The reporter also noted that Connolly clinched frequently and "wrestled" rather than boxed, probably to protect himself from Gans' fierce assaults. By the time the referee ended the bout in the fifth round, Connolly had been "rendered practically helpless" by the powerful punching of Gans.[10]

Gans also defended his Lightweight World Title against other talented boxers such as Steve Crosby and Gus Gardiner. There was also Charley Sieger, Kid McPartland, Rufe Turner, Charles "Elbows" McFadden, and Frank Erne.

In an important title defense, he defeated the "Durable Dane" Oscar "Battling" Nelson in 42 rounds on September 3, 1906, in Goldfield, Nevada. This blockbuster fight, arranged by legendary promoter Tex Rickard, would eventually be honored with a historic memorial.

On September 15, 1905, Gans fought to a 15-round prearranged draw[clarification needed] with future Welterweight World Championship claimant Mike "Twin" Sullivan. Most people reporting on the fights believed that Sullivan deserved the decision. In an immediate rematch, he defeated Sullivan by knockout on January 19 and March 17, 1906, in San Francisco and Los Angeles and again in March of the same year.

Although the bout was recorded as a Welterweight Title match and thus supposedly had a weight limit of around 142 pounds (which was estimated to be Sullivan's weigh-in[7]), Gans' weigh-in was estimated to have been 134 pounds.[7] Gans' defeat of the heavier Sullivan, a strong puncher by reputation, showed his mastery in the ring. In this well-attended bout, Gans share of the gate was a considerable $2,425.20, and Sullivan's was $1,616.80. Gans reportedly had bet another $1,700 on himself.[7]

Gans and Battling Nelson fought for the World Lightweight title twice in Colma, California: first on July 4 and again on September 9 of 1908. Gans lost the first fight by knockout in the 17th round of 45, ending his multi-year reign as champion; he lost the rematch via KO in the 21st round of 45.[11] But there were reports that the conditions were laid down by Nelson's handlers. Gans had to weigh in at ringside at not more than 132 lbs fully dressed. Black fighters in those days deferred to the white men in a way we can't realise today. A very important point also is that Gans was actually dying by then of consumption, and in fact died less than 2 years later of the incurable disease.;;; So all was not exactly as it seemed.

Draw with Barbados Joe Walcott

[edit]

On September 30, 1904, Gans fought to a 20-round draw against Barbados Joe Walcott. "The San Francisco Chronicle reported that Walcott damaged ligaments in his left arm and that it was 'useless from the 4th round on.' It was announced before the fight that no title was at stake. Referee Jack Welch gave 7 rounds to Gans, 5 to Walcott, with 8 even, but thought that Walcott's aggressiveness compensated Gans' advantage in cleverness. Shortly after this fight, Walcott accidentally shot himself in the hand and was out of action until January 1906."[7]

Death

[edit]

Joe Gans died on August 10, 1910, of tuberculosis, at the age of 35. He is buried in Mount Auburn Cemetery in Baltimore. His monument is maintained by the International Boxing Commission and sits just to the left of the main entrance of the cemetery.

His monument reads: "I was born in the city of Baltimore in the year 1874, and it might be well to state at this time that my right name is Joseph Gant, not Gans. However, when I became an object of newspaper publicity, some reporter made a mistake and my name appeared as Joe Gans, and as Joe Gans it remained ever since."

Professional honors and legacy

[edit]
Joe Walcott vs. Joe Gans

Gans had a final professional record of 145 wins with 100 knockouts, 10 losses, 16 draws, 6 no contests and 19 no decisions (Newspaper Decisions: 13–2–4). He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.[12]

A bronze statue of Joe Gans stands on the suite floor at Madison Square Garden, having previously been outside of the locker rooms. Boxers would traditionally bump the statue's outstretched left fist for good luck before matches.[13]

Gans' legendary fight with Battling Nelson on September 3, 1906, was commemorated with a memorial located in Goldfield, Nevada, at the site of the fight.[14]

Gans was the first African-American to win a World Boxing Championship and the first to win a Lightweight Boxing title. Gans' achievements not only set new records, but gave African Americans hope in the early twentieth century. In a time of racial segregation, champion Joe Gans somehow emerged victorious.[15]

Gans was rated the greatest Lightweight boxer of all-time by boxing historian and Ring Magazine founder Nat Fleischer.[citation needed]

One boxing historian writes of Gans: "Through his ring accomplishments, Gans put into action what others could only theorize. The articulation of the black quest for social equality reached large audiences through the pulpits, and the most authoritative sermons were published in newspapers and religious quarterlies."[16][clarification needed]

On November 25, 2024, Maryland Governor Wes Moore and Baltimore mayor Brandon Scott issued proclamations recognizing the day as Joe Gans Day.[17]

Motion picture

[edit]
A four-reel motion picture of the second Gans-Nelson fight in Colma, California, was shown in theaters across the country. Above, reporter-artist Marguerite Martyn sketched her impression of women watching the film in St. Louis, Missouri, in October 1908.

The Gans-Nelson battle in Colma, California, was the subject of a four-reel motion picture that played in major cities around the country.[citation needed]

Hemingway connection

[edit]

Ernest Hemingway used Joe Gans as a character in his 1916 short story "A Matter of Colour."[18] This early story set the stage for Hemingway's 1927 parable "The Killers."[19]

Professional boxing record

[edit]

All information in this section is derived from BoxRec[7] unless otherwise stated.

Official record

[edit]
199 fights 147 wins 10 losses
By knockout 101 5
By decision 39 5
By disqualification 7 0
Draws 16
No contests 6
Newspaper decisions/draws 20

All newspaper decisions are officially regarded as "no decision" bouts and are not counted in the win/loss/draw column.

No. Result Record Opponent Type Round, time Date Location Notes
199 Win 147–10–16 (26) Jabez White NWS 10 Mar 12, 1909 National S.C., New York City, US
198 Loss 147–10–16 (25) Battling Nelson KO 21 (45) Sep 9, 1908 Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, US For world lightweight title
197 Loss 147–9–16 (25) Battling Nelson KO 17 (45) Jul 4, 1908 Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, US Lost world lightweight title
196 Win 147–8–16 (25) Rudy Unholz TKO 11 (20) May 14, 1908 Coliseum, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
195 Win 146–8–16 (25) Frank 'Spike' Robson TKO 3 (6), 2:25 Apr 1, 1908 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
194 Win 145–8–16 (25) Bob Blackburn KO 3 (5) Jan 3, 1908 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
193 Win 144–8–16 (25) George Memsic PTS 20 Sep 27, 1907 Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California Retained world lightweight title
192 Win 143–8–16 (25) Jimmy Britt TKO 6 (20) Sep 9, 1907 Recreation Park, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
191 Win 142–8–16 (25) Kid Herman KO 8 (?) Jan 1, 1907 Casino A.C. Arena, Tonopah, California, US Retained world lightweight title
190 Win 141–8–16 (25) Battling Nelson DQ 42 () Sep 3, 1906 Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, US Retained world lightweight title;
A fight to the finish
189 Win 140–8–16 (25) Dave Holly PTS 20 Jul 23, 1906 Pleasant Beach, Bainbridge Island, Washington, US Retained world lightweight title
188 Win 139–8–16 (25) Jack Blackburn NWS 6 Jun 29, 1906 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
187 Draw 139–8–16 (24) Harry Lewis NWS 6 Jun 15, 1906 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
186 Loss 139–8–16 (23) Willie Lewis NWS 6 May 18, 1906 Madison Square Garden, New York City, US
185 Win 139–8–16 (22) Mike "Twin" Sullivan TKO 10 (20) Mar 17, 1906 Chutes Park, Los Angeles, California Retained world welterweight title claim at 142 lbs;
Police stopped the fight
184 Win 138–8–16 (22) Mike 'Twin' Sullivan KO 15 (20), 1:15 Jan 19, 1906 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Gans claims world welterweight title at 142lbs
183 Draw 137–8–16 (22) Mike 'Twin' Sullivan PTS 15 Sep 15, 1905 Lyric Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Retained world lightweight title;
Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance
182 Win 137–8–15 (22) Rufe Turner NWS 6 Mar 27, 1905 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
181 Win 137–8–15 (21) Jimmy Britt DQ 5 (20), 0:30 Oct 31, 1904 Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title;
Britt DQ'd for hitting Gans while he was rising from a knockdown
180 Draw 136–8–15 (21) Barbados Joe Walcott PTS 20 Sep 30, 1904 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
179 Draw 136–8–14 (21) Dave Holly NWS 6 Jun 27, 1904 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
178 Win 136–8–14 (20) Sammy Smith TKO 4 (6) Jun 13, 1904 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
177 Win 135–8–14 (20) Kid Griffo TKO 7 (15) Jun 3, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
176 Win 134–8–14 (20) Jewey Cook RTD 7 (10) May 27, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
175 Win 133–8–14 (20) Sam Bolen PTS 15 Apr 21, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
174 Win 132–8–14 (20) Gus Gardner PTS 10 Mar 28, 1904 Arbelten Hall, Saginaw, Michigan, US
173 Win 131–8–14 (20) Jack Blackburn PTS 15 Mar 25, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
172 Win 130–8–14 (20) Mike Ward TKO 10 (10) Feb 2, 1904 Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US
171 Win 129–8–14 (20) Joe Grim PTS 10 Jan 22, 1904 Shlegel's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
170 Win 128–8–14 (20) Clarence Connors TKO 2 (6) Jan 19, 1904 Mount Clemens, Michigan, US
169 Win 127–8–14 (20) Willie Fitzgerald PTS 10 Jan 12, 1904 Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US Retained world lightweight title
168 Loss 126–8–14 (20) Sam Langford PTS 15 Dec 8, 1903 Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US
167 Win 126–7–14 (20) Dave Holly NWS 6 Dec 7, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
166 Loss 126–7–14 (19) Jack Blackburn NWS 6 Nov 2, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
165 Draw 126–7–14 (18) Dave Holly NWS 6 Oct 23, 1903 State A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
164 Win 126–7–14 (17) Eddie Kennedy NWS 6 Oct 20, 1903 Southern A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
163 Win 126–7–14 (16) Joe Grim NWS 6 Oct 19, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
162 Win 126–7–14 (15) Buddy King KO 5 (20) Jul 4, 1903 Old Baseball Park, Butte, Montana, US
161 Win 125–7–14 (15) Willie Fitzgerald KO 10 (20) May 29, 1903 Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
160 Win 124–7–14 (15) Tom Tracey TKO 9 (20) May 13, 1903 Pastime A.C., Portland, Oregon, US
159 Win 123–7–14 (15) Jack Bennett KO 5 (10) Mar 23, 1903 Masonic Hall, Allegheny, Pennsylvania, US
158 Win 122–7–14 (15) Steve Crosby TKO 11 (20) Mar 11, 1903 Whittington Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas, US Retained world lightweight title
157 Win 121–7–14 (15) Gus Gardner DQ 11 (20), 1:05 Jan 1, 1903 Casino, New Britain, Connecticut, US Retained world lightweight title
156 Draw 120–7–14 (15) Charley Siegar PTS 10 Dec 31, 1902 Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance.
155 Win 120–7–13 (15) Howard Wilson TKO 3 (20) Dec 19, 1902 Scituate Athletic Club, Scituate, Rhode Island, US
154 Win 119–7–13 (15) Charley Siegar TKO 14 (20) Nov 14, 1902 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Retained world lightweight title
153 Win 118–7–13 (15) Dave Holly NWS 10 Oct 14, 1902 Maennerchor Hall, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, US
152 Win 118–7–13 (14) Kid McPartland KO 5 (20), 2:25 Oct 13, 1902 International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada Retained world lightweight title
151 Win 117–7–13 (14) Jack Bennett KO 2 (6) Sep 22, 1902 Golden Gate A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
150 Win 116–7–13 (14) Gus Gardner KO 5 (20) Sep 17, 1902 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
149 Win 115–7–13 (14) Rufe Turner KO 15 (15) Jul 24, 1902 Acme A.C., Oakland, California, US Retained world lightweight title
148 Win 114–7–13 (14) George 'Elbows' McFadden TKO 3 (20) Jun 27, 1902 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
147 Win 113–7–13 (14) St. Mary's County Bully DQ 3 (4) May 29, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
146 Win 112–7–13 (14) Charles Boyer TKO 2 (4) May 28, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
145 Win 111–7–13 (14) Edward Snowden KO 2 (4) May 28, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
144 Win 110–7–13 (14) Joe Burke RTD 2 (4) May 27, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
143 Win 109–7–13 (14) Frank Erne KO 1 (20), 1:40 May 12, 1902 International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada Won world lightweight title
142 Win 108–7–13 (14) Jack Bennett KO 5 (20) Mar 27, 1902 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
141 Win 107–7–13 (14) Jack Ryan TKO 4 (15) Mar 7, 1902 Keystone A.C., Allentown, Pennsylvania, US
140 Win 106–7–13 (14) George 'Elbows' McFadden NWS 6 Feb 17, 1902 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
139 Win 106–7–13 (13) Eddie Connolly DQ 5 (6) Jan 6, 1902 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Connolly DQ'd for head-butting Gans multiple times under the chin
138 Win 105–7–13 (13) Tom Broderick KO 6 (20) Jan 3, 1902 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
137 Win 104–7–13 (13) Joe Youngs TKO 4 (6) Dec 30, 1901 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Youngs quit in the middle of the round, with both of his eyes almost closed
136 Win 103–7–13 (13) Bobby Dobbs TKO 14 (20) Dec 13, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
135 Win 102–7–13 (13) Billy Moore KO 3 (20) Nov 22, 1901 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
134 Win 101–7–13 (13) Jack Hanlon KO 2 (20) Nov 15, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
133 Win 100–7–13 (13) Dan McConnell KO 3 (8) Oct 4, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
132 Win 99–7–13 (13) Joe Handler TKO 1 (20) Sep 30, 1901 Trenton A.C., Trenton, New Jersey, US
131 Win 98–7–13 (13) Steve Crosby TKO 12 (20) Sep 20, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight
130 Draw 97–7–13 (13) Steve Crosby PTS 20 Aug 23, 1901 Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US Retained world colored lightweight title
129 Win 97–7–12 (13) Kid Thomas NWS 6 Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in one day
128 Win 97–7–12 (12) Jack Donahue TKO 2 (6) Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
127 Win 96–7–12 (12) Harry Berger NWS 6 Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
126 Win 96–7–12 (11) Bobby Dobbs KO 7 (20) May 31, 1901 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
125 Win 95–7–12 (11) Martin Flaherty TKO 4 (20) Apr 1, 1901 Ford's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
124 Win 94–7–12 (11) Wilmington Jack Daly DQ 5 (20), 2:05 Feb 13, 1901 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
123 Loss 93–7–12 (11) Terry McGovern KO 2 (6), 2:05 Dec 13, 1900 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
122 Win 93–6–12 (11) Kid Parker KO 4 (10) Nov 16, 1900 Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
121 Win 92–6–12 (11) Jimmy 'Spider' Kelly TKO 8 (10) Oct 19, 1900 Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
120 Win 91–6–12 (11) Otto Sieloff KO 9 (10) Oct 16, 1900 Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
119 Win 90–6–12 (11) Alec Johnson KO 1 (5), 2:23 Oct 11, 1900 Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
118 Win 89–6–12 (11) Bird Leg Collins TKO 4 (5) Oct 11, 1900 Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
117 Win 88–6–12 (11) Joe Youngs PTS 10 Oct 5, 1900 Colorado A.A., Denver, Colorado, US
116 Draw 87–6–12 (11) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 10 Oct 2, 1900 Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
115 Win 87–6–11 (11) George 'Elbows' McFadden NWS 6 Sep 7, 1900 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
114 Win 87–6–11 (10) Dal Hawkins KO 3 (25) Aug 31, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, US Time was either 2:21 or 2:57
113 Win 86–6–11 (10) Whitey Lester KO 4 (20) Jul 12, 1900 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
112 Win 85–6–11 (10) Young Griffo TKO 8 (25), 1:38 Jul 10, 1900 Seaside A.C., Coney Island, New York, US
111 Win 84–6–11 (10) Barney Furey KO 9 (15) Jun 26, 1900 People's Theater, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
110 Win 83–6–11 (10) Dal Hawkins KO 2 (25), 1:15 May 25, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
109 Win 82–6–11 (10) Chicago Jack Daly TKO 5 (6) Apr 1, 1900 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
108 Loss 81–6–11 (10) Frank Erne TKO 12 (25) Mar 23, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, US For world lightweight title;
Gans asked to have the bout stopped after being cut by an accidental head-butt.
107 Win 81–5–11 (10) Spike Sullivan TKO 14 (25), 2:17 Feb 9, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
106 Draw 80–5–11 (10) Kid McPartland PTS 6 Dec 22, 1899 Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
105 Win 80–5–10 (10) Kid Ash PTS 15 Dec 11, 1899 Robinson Opera House, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
104 Win 79–5–10 (10) Steve Crosby PTS 6 Nov 24, 1899 Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
103 Win 78–5–10 (10) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 25 Oct 31, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
102 Win 77–5–10 (10) Martin Judge PTS 20 Oct 11, 1899 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
101 Draw 76–5–10 (10) Wilmington Jack Daly NWS 6 Oct 7, 1899 Nonpareil A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
100 Win 76–5–10 (9) Jimmy 'Spider' Kelly PTS 25 Oct 3, 1899 Lenox A.C., New York City, US
99 Win 75–5–10 (9) Martin Judge PTS 12 (20) Sep 15, 1899 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight at the end of the 12th round
on account of foul work in the clinches.
98 Win 74–5–10 (9) Eugene Bezenah KO 10 (25), 2:23 Sep 1, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
97 Draw 73–5–10 (9) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 25 Jul 28, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
96 Win 73–5–9 (9) Jack Dobbs TKO 4 (25) Jul 24, 1899 Seabright Casino, Ocean City, Maryland, US
95 Loss 72–5–9 (9) George 'Elbows' McFadden KO 23 (25) Apr 14, 1899 Broadway A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, US
94 Win 72–4–9 (9) Billy Ernst DQ 10 (20) Feb 6, 1899 Olympic A.C., Buffalo, New York, US Ernst DQ'd for headbutting Gans
93 Win 71–4–9 (9) Martin Judge PTS 20 Jan 28, 1899 Crescent A.C., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
92 Win 70–4–9 (9) Young Smyrna KO 2 (25), 2:50 Jan 13, 1899 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
91 Win 69–4–9 (9) Wilmington Jack Daly PTS 25 Dec 27, 1898 Lenox A.C., New York City, US
90 Win 68–4–9 (9) Kid McPartland PTS 25 Nov 4, 1898 Lenox A.C., New York City, US
89 Win 67–4–9 (9) William Duke PTS 4 Sep 30, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
88 Win 66–4–9 (9) Fred Sweigert PTS 4 Sep 29, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
87 Win 65–4–9 (9) James Martin TKO 4 (4) Sep 28, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
86 Win 64–4–9 (9) Joseph Smith TKO 1 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in one day
85 Win 63–4–9 (9) William Hinton TKO 1 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
84 Win 62–4–9 (9) Buck Baynor TKO 3 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
83 Win 61–4–9 (9) Herman Miller PTS 4 Sep 26, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
82 Win 60–4–9 (9) Thomas Jackson KO 3 (25), 1:32 Sep 1, 1898 Talbot county fair, Easton, Maryland, US
81 Win 59–4–9 (9) Young Smyrna TKO 15 (25), 2:23 Aug 26, 1898 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
80 Win 58–4–9 (9) Billy Ernst KO 11 (25) Aug 8, 1898 Greater New York A.C., New York City, US
79 Win 57–4–9 (9) George Brown TKO 6 (10) Jul 1, 1898 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
78 Win 56–4–9 (9) Joe Kid Robinson PTS 6 Jun 3, 1898 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
77 NC 55–4–9 (9) Joe Kid Robinson NC 3 (6) Jun 2, 1898 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US The lights went out in the building, and the show had to be called off until next day.
76 Win 55–4–9 (8) Steve Crosby RTD 6 (20) May 11, 1898 Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US
75 Win 54–4–9 (8) Young Starlight TKO 3 (3) Apr 11, 1898 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in a day
74 Win 53–4–9 (8) Young Smyrna TKO 3 (3) Apr 11, 1898 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight.
73 Win 52–4–9 (8) Tommy Shortell TKO 6 (8) Mar 11, 1898 Academy Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
72 Win 51–4–9 (8) Frank Garrard TKO 15 (20) Jan 17, 1898 Central Armory, Cleveland, Ohio, US
71 Win 50–4–9 (9) Billy Young TKO 2 (8) Jan 3, 1898 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
70 Win 49–4–9 (8) Stanton Abbott TKO 5 (8), 2:15 Nov 29, 1897 Academy of Music, Baltimore, Maryland, US
69 Draw 48–4–9 (8) Wilmington Jack Daly NWS 6 Nov 6, 1897 Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
68 Loss 48–4–9 (7) Bobby Dobbs PTS 20 Sep 27, 1897 Greenpoint S.C., New York City, US For world colored lightweight title
67 Draw 48–3–9 (7) Young Griffo PTS 15 Sep 21, 1897 Olympic A.C., Athens, Pennsylvania, US
66 Win 48–3–8 (7) Izzy Strauss KO 5 (15) Aug 30, 1897 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
65 Win 47–3–8 (7) Jack McCue TKO 6 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Fifth fight in a day
64 Win 46–3–8 (7) John Coates TKO 5 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Fourth fight in a day
63 Win 45–3–8 (7) Jerry Marshall TKO 8 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in a day
62 Win 44–3–8 (7) George Thomas TKO 3 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in a day
61 Win 43–3–8 (7) August Stenzie TKO 3 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US
60 Win 42–3–8 (7) Mike Leonard PTS 20 May 18, 1897 Olympic A.C., San Francisco, California, US
59 Win 41–3–8 (7) Howard Wilson KO 9 (20) Apr 3, 1897 Polo A.C., New York City, US
58 Win 40–3–8 (7) Charles Rochette RTD 4 (10) Dec 14, 1896 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
57 Win 39–3–8 (7) Jerry Marshall PTS 20 Nov 12, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
56 Win 38–3–8 (7) Jack Williams TKO 3 (8) Oct 19, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight.
55 Loss 37–3–8 (7) Dal Hawkins PTS 15 Oct 6, 1896 Bohemian Sporting Club, New York City, US
54 Win 37–2–8 (7) John Ball PTS 4 Sep 28, 1896 East Side A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
53 Draw 36–2–8 (7) Danny McBride PTS 20 Aug 31, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
52 Win 36–2–7 (7) Jack Williams TKO 2 (?) Aug 20, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
51 Win 35–2–7 (7) Tommy Butler PTS 12 Jun 29, 1896 South Brooklyn A.C., New York City, US
50 Win 34–2–7 (7) Jimmy Watson PTS 10 Jun 8, 1896 Bijou Theater, Paterson, New Jersey, US
49 Win 33–2–7 (7) Jimmy Kennard TKO 6 (12) Feb 22, 1896 West Newton Street Armory, Boston, Massachusetts, US
48 Win 32–2–7 (7) Joe Elliott KO 7 (8) Jan 17, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
47 Win 31–2–7 (7) Benny Peterson PTS 4 Jan 11, 1896 Ariel A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
46 Win 30–2–7 (7) George Siddons KO 7 (25), 2:50 Nov 28, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
45 Draw 29–2–7 (7) Young Griffo PTS 10 Nov 18, 1895 Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Pre-arranged draw if lasting full distance.
44 Win 29–2–6 (7) Joe Elliott KO 9 (25) Oct 21, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
43 Draw 28–2–6 (7) George Siddons PTS 20 Jul 15, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
42 Win 28–2–5 (7) Howard Wilson PTS 10 May 28, 1895 Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
41 Win 27–2–5 (7) Benny Peterson KO 17 (20) May 20, 1895 Riverside Athletic Club, New York City, US
40 Win 26–2–5 (7) George Willis KO 4 (10) May 14, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
39 Draw 25–2–5 (7) Howard Wilson PTS 6 May 9, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
38 Win 25–2–4 (7) Frank Peabody TKO 3 (8) May 4, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
37 Win 24–2–4 (7) Kentucky Rosebud TKO 8 (8) Apr 25, 1895 Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
36 Win 23–2–4 (7) David Armstrong TKO 3 (6) Apr 18, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
35 Loss 22–2–4 (7) Johnny Van Heest PTS 9 (8) Apr 13, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Gans had Van Heese whipped to a standstill in the eighth round,
but Mr. Daniel Carr, the referee, ordered an extra round.
Though Van Heest had none the best of the last round, he was given the decision.
34 Win 22–1–4 (7) Kentucky Rosebud NWS 6 Apr 1, 1895 Monumental Amphitheater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
33 Win 22–1–4 (6) Paul Johnson PTS 6 Mar 22, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
32 Win 21–1–4 (6) Harry Hunt TKO 4 (?) Mar 20, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
31 Draw 20–1–4 (6) Howard Wilson PTS 10 Mar 18, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
30 Draw 20–1–3 (6) Fred Sweigert PTS 10 Mar 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
29 Win 20–1–2 (6) Solomon English TKO 10 (10) Mar 6, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police interfered.
28 Win 19–1–2 (6) Max Wirsing TKO 3 (?) Mar 4, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
27 Draw 18–1–2 (6) James Daly PTS 11 (10) Feb 16, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US An extra-round was fought.
26 Win 18–1–1 (6) James Davis KO 3 (10) Feb 12, 1895 Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
25 Win 17–1–1 (6) John Ball PTS 6 Feb 12, 1895 Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
24 Win 16–1–1 (6) John Coates PTS 11 (10) Feb 11, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US An additional round was fought to decide the winner.
23 Win 15–1–1 (6) Samuel Young KO 3 (?) Feb 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
22 Win 14–1–1 (6) Fred Sweigert PTS 10 Feb 6, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
21 Draw 13–1–1 (6) Dave Horn PTS 10 Jan 23, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
20 Win 13–1 (6) George Brummell TKO 5 (?) Jan 19, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
19 Win 12–1 (6) Paul Johnson PTS 10 Jan 11, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
18 Win 11–1 (6) Bud Brown PTS 10 Jan 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day after Allen's corner man offered to fight Gans
17 Win 10–1 (6) Samuel Allen KO 3 (?) Jan 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
16 Win 9–1 (6) Fred Sweigert PTS ? Jan 1, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
15 Win 8–1 (6) Jack McDonald TKO 8 (?) Dec 28, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
14 Win 7–1 (6) John Coates PTS 10 Dec 27, 1894 Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
13 Win 6–1 (6) Fred Sweigert NWS 10 Dec 21, 1894 Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
12 Win 6–1 (5) Travis Brown PTS 6 Dec 17, 1894 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
11 ND 5–1 (5) Bud Young ND 4 Nov 27, 1894 Canton Academy, Baltimore, Maryland, US
10 ND 5–1 (4) Paul Johnson ND 3 (?) Nov 12, 1894 Grand Army Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Gans was fouled and could not continue. Ruled a no decision
9 Win 5–1 (3) Jackson TKO 3 (4) Jul 10, 1894 Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
8 Loss 4–1 (3) Paul Johnson PTS 5 Jun 27, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US For vacant Maryland colored lightweight title
7 Win 4–0 (3) Gustav Wilkie PTS 4 Jun 26, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
6 ND 3–0 (3) Robert Cook ND ? May 21, 1894 M F Conklin's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
5 Win 3–0 (2) Harry Brian PTS ? Apr 25, 1894 Allerino Gannic Casino, Baltimore, Maryland, US
4 ND 2–0 (2) Dave Horn ND 3 (?) Apr 19, 1894 Beach's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
3 Win 2–0 (1) William Jones KO 4 (?) Feb 12, 1894 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
2 Win 1–0 (1) William Jones RTD 6 (?) Nov 27, 1893 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
1 ND 0–0 (1) Buck Myers ND ? Oct 23, 1893 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US

Unofficial record

[edit]
199 fights 160 wins 12 losses
By knockout 101 5
By decision 52 7
By disqualification 7 0
Draws 21
No contests 6

Record with the inclusion of newspaper decisions in the win/loss/draw column.

No. Result Record Opponent Type Round, time Date Location Notes
199 Win 160–12–21 (6) Jabez White NWS 10 Mar 12, 1909 National S.C., New York City, US
198 Loss 159–12–21 (6) Battling Nelson KO 21 (45) Sep 9, 1908 Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, US For world lightweight title
197 Loss 159–11–21 (6) Battling Nelson KO 17 (45) Jul 4, 1908 Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, US Lost world lightweight title
196 Win 159–10–21 (6) Rudy Unholz TKO 11 (20) May 14, 1908 Coliseum, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
195 Win 158–10–21 (6) Frank 'Spike' Robson TKO 3 (6), 2:25 Apr 1, 1908 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
194 Win 157–10–21 (6) Bob Blackburn KO 3 (5) Jan 3, 1908 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
193 Win 156–10–21 (6) George Memsic PTS 20 Sep 27, 1907 Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California Retained world lightweight title
192 Win 155–10–21 (6) Jimmy Britt TKO 6 (20) Sep 9, 1907 Recreation Park, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
191 Win 154–10–21 (6) Kid Herman KO 8 (?) Jan 1, 1907 Casino A.C. Arena, Tonopah, California, US Retained world lightweight title
190 Win 153–10–21 (6) Battling Nelson DQ 42 () Sep 3, 1906 Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, US Retained world lightweight title;
A fight to the finish
189 Win 152–10–21 (6) Dave Holly PTS 20 Jul 23, 1906 Pleasant Beach, Bainbridge Island, Washington, US Retained world lightweight title
188 Win 151–10–21 (6) Jack Blackburn NWS 6 Jun 29, 1906 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
187 Draw 150–10–21 (6) Harry Lewis NWS 6 Jun 15, 1906 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
186 Loss 150–10–20 (6) Willie Lewis NWS 6 May 18, 1906 Madison Square Garden, New York City, US
185 Win 150–9–20 (6) Mike "Twin" Sullivan TKO 10 (20) Mar 17, 1906 Chutes Park, Los Angeles, California Retained world welterweight title claim at 142 lbs;
Police stopped the fight
184 Win 149–9–20 (6) Mike 'Twin' Sullivan KO 15 (20), 1:15 Jan 19, 1906 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Gans claims world welterweight title at 142lbs
183 Draw 148–9–20 (6) Mike 'Twin' Sullivan PTS 15 Sep 15, 1905 Lyric Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Retained world lightweight title;
Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance
182 Win 148–9–19 (6) Rufe Turner NWS 6 Mar 27, 1905 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
181 Win 147–9–19 (6) Jimmy Britt DQ 5 (20), 0:30 Oct 31, 1904 Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title;
Britt DQ'd for hitting Gans while he was rising from a knockdown
180 Draw 146–9–19 (6) Barbados Joe Walcott PTS 20 Sep 30, 1904 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
179 Draw 146–9–18 (6) Dave Holly NWS 6 Jun 27, 1904 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
178 Win 146–9–17 (6) Sammy Smith TKO 4 (6) Jun 13, 1904 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
177 Win 145–9–17 (6) Kid Griffo TKO 7 (15) Jun 3, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
176 Win 144–9–17 (6) Jewey Cook RTD 7 (10) May 27, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
175 Win 143–9–17 (6) Sam Bolen PTS 15 Apr 21, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
174 Win 142–9–17 (6) Gus Gardner PTS 10 Mar 28, 1904 Arbelten Hall, Saginaw, Michigan, US
173 Win 141–9–17 (6) Jack Blackburn PTS 15 Mar 25, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
172 Win 140–9–17 (6) Mike Ward TKO 10 (10) Feb 2, 1904 Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US
171 Win 139–9–17 (6) Joe Grim PTS 10 Jan 22, 1904 Shlegel's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
170 Win 138–9–17 (6) Clarence Connors TKO 2 (6) Jan 19, 1904 Mount Clemens, Michigan, US
169 Win 137–9–17 (6) Willie Fitzgerald PTS 10 Jan 12, 1904 Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US Retained world lightweight title
168 Loss 136–9–17 (6) Sam Langford PTS 15 Dec 8, 1903 Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US
167 Win 136–8–17 (6) Dave Holly NWS 6 Dec 7, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
166 Loss 135–8–17 (6) Jack Blackburn NWS 6 Nov 2, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
165 Draw 135–7–17 (6) Dave Holly NWS 6 Oct 23, 1903 State A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
164 Win 135–7–16 (6) Eddie Kennedy NWS 6 Oct 20, 1903 Southern A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
163 Win 134–7–16 (6) Joe Grim NWS 6 Oct 19, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
162 Win 133–7–16 (6) Buddy King KO 5 (20) Jul 4, 1903 Old Baseball Park, Butte, Montana, US
161 Win 132–7–16 (6) Willie Fitzgerald KO 10 (20) May 29, 1903 Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
160 Win 131–7–16 (6) Tom Tracey TKO 9 (20) May 13, 1903 Pastime A.C., Portland, Oregon, US
159 Win 130–7–16 (6) Jack Bennett KO 5 (10) Mar 23, 1903 Masonic Hall, Allegheny, Pennsylvania, US
158 Win 129–7–16 (6) Steve Crosby TKO 11 (20) Mar 11, 1903 Whittington Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas, US Retained world lightweight title
157 Win 128–7–16 (6) Gus Gardner DQ 11 (20), 1:05 Jan 1, 1903 Casino, New Britain, Connecticut, US Retained world lightweight title
156 Draw 127–7–16 (6) Charley Siegar PTS 10 Dec 31, 1902 Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance.
155 Win 127–7–15 (6) Howard Wilson TKO 3 (20) Dec 19, 1902 Scituate Athletic Club, Scituate, Rhode Island, US
154 Win 126–7–15 (6) Charley Siegar TKO 14 (20) Nov 14, 1902 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Retained world lightweight title
153 Win 125–7–15 (6) Dave Holly NWS 10 Oct 14, 1902 Maennerchor Hall, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, US
152 Win 124–7–15 (6) Kid McPartland KO 5 (20), 2:25 Oct 13, 1902 International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada Retained world lightweight title
151 Win 123–7–15 (6) Jack Bennett KO 2 (6) Sep 22, 1902 Golden Gate A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
150 Win 122–7–15 (6) Gus Gardner KO 5 (20) Sep 17, 1902 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
149 Win 121–7–15 (6) Rufe Turner KO 15 (15) Jul 24, 1902 Acme A.C., Oakland, California, US Retained world lightweight title
148 Win 120–7–15 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden TKO 3 (20) Jun 27, 1902 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
147 Win 119–7–15 (6) St. Mary's County Bully DQ 3 (4) May 29, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
146 Win 118–7–15 (6) Charles Boyer TKO 2 (4) May 28, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
145 Win 117–7–15 (6) Edward Snowden KO 2 (4) May 28, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
144 Win 116–7–15 (6) Joe Burke RTD 2 (4) May 27, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
143 Win 115–7–15 (6) Frank Erne KO 1 (20), 1:40 May 12, 1902 International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada Won world lightweight title
142 Win 114–7–15 (6) Jack Bennett KO 5 (20) Mar 27, 1902 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
141 Win 113–7–15 (6) Jack Ryan TKO 4 (15) Mar 7, 1902 Keystone A.C., Allentown, Pennsylvania, US
140 Win 112–7–15 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden NWS 6 Feb 17, 1902 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
139 Win 111–7–15 (6) Eddie Connolly DQ 5 (6) Jan 6, 1902 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Connolly DQ'd for head-butting Gans multiple times under the chin
138 Win 110–7–15 (6) Tom Broderick KO 6 (20) Jan 3, 1902 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
137 Win 109–7–15 (6) Joe Youngs TKO 4 (6) Dec 30, 1901 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Youngs quit in the middle of the round, with both of his eyes almost closed
136 Win 108–7–15 (6) Bobby Dobbs TKO 14 (20) Dec 13, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
135 Win 107–7–15 (6) Billy Moore KO 3 (20) Nov 22, 1901 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
134 Win 106–7–15 (6) Jack Hanlon KO 2 (20) Nov 15, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
133 Win 105–7–15 (6) Dan McConnell KO 3 (8) Oct 4, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
132 Win 104–7–15 (6) Joe Handler TKO 1 (20) Sep 30, 1901 Trenton A.C., Trenton, New Jersey, US
131 Win 103–7–15 (6) Steve Crosby TKO 12 (20) Sep 20, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight
130 Draw 102–7–15 (6) Steve Crosby PTS 20 Aug 23, 1901 Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US Retained world colored lightweight title
129 Win 102–7–14 (6) Kid Thomas NWS 6 Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in one day
128 Win 101–7–14 (6) Jack Donahue TKO 2 (6) Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
127 Win 100–7–14 (6) Harry Berger NWS 6 Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
126 Win 99–7–14 (6) Bobby Dobbs KO 7 (20) May 31, 1901 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
125 Win 98–7–14 (6) Martin Flaherty TKO 4 (20) Apr 1, 1901 Ford's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
124 Win 97–7–14 (6) Wilmington Jack Daly DQ 5 (20), 2:05 Feb 13, 1901 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
123 Loss 96–7–14 (6) Terry McGovern KO 2 (6), 2:05 Dec 13, 1900 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
122 Win 96–6–14 (6) Kid Parker KO 4 (10) Nov 16, 1900 Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
121 Win 95–6–14 (6) Jimmy 'Spider' Kelly TKO 8 (10) Oct 19, 1900 Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
120 Win 94–6–14 (6) Otto Sieloff KO 9 (10) Oct 16, 1900 Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
119 Win 93–6–14 (6) Alec Johnson KO 1 (5), 2:23 Oct 11, 1900 Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
118 Win 92–6–14 (6) Bird Leg Collins TKO 4 (5) Oct 11, 1900 Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
117 Win 91–6–14 (6) Joe Youngs PTS 10 Oct 5, 1900 Colorado A.A., Denver, Colorado, US
116 Draw 90–6–14 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 10 Oct 2, 1900 Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
115 Win 90–6–13 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden NWS 6 Sep 7, 1900 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
114 Win 89–6–13 (6) Dal Hawkins KO 3 (25) Aug 31, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, US Time was either 2:21 or 2:57
113 Win 88–6–13 (6) Whitey Lester KO 4 (20) Jul 12, 1900 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
112 Win 87–6–13 (6) Young Griffo TKO 8 (25), 1:38 Jul 10, 1900 Seaside A.C., Coney Island, New York, US
111 Win 86–6–13 (6) Barney Furey KO 9 (15) Jun 26, 1900 People's Theater, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
110 Win 85–6–13 (6) Dal Hawkins KO 2 (25), 1:15 May 25, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
109 Win 84–6–13 (6) Chicago Jack Daly TKO 5 (6) Apr 1, 1900 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
108 Loss 83–6–13 (6) Frank Erne TKO 12 (25) Mar 23, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, US For world lightweight title;
Gans asked to have the bout stopped after being cut by an accidental head-butt.
107 Win 83–5–13 (6) Spike Sullivan TKO 14 (25), 2:17 Feb 9, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
106 Draw 82–5–13 (6) Kid McPartland PTS 6 Dec 22, 1899 Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
105 Win 82–5–12 (6) Kid Ash PTS 15 Dec 11, 1899 Robinson Opera House, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
104 Win 81–5–12 (6) Steve Crosby PTS 6 Nov 24, 1899 Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
103 Win 80–5–12 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 25 Oct 31, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
102 Win 79–5–12 (6) Martin Judge PTS 20 Oct 11, 1899 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
101 Draw 78–5–12 (6) Wilmington Jack Daly NWS 6 Oct 7, 1899 Nonpareil A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
100 Win 78–5–11 (6) Jimmy 'Spider' Kelly PTS 25 Oct 3, 1899 Lenox A.C., New York City, US
99 Win 77–5–11 (6) Martin Judge PTS 12 (20) Sep 15, 1899 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight at the end of the 12th round
on account of foul work in the clinches.
98 Win 76–5–11 (6) Eugene Bezenah KO 10 (25), 2:23 Sep 1, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
97 Draw 75–5–11 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 25 Jul 28, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, US
96 Win 75–5–10 (6) Jack Dobbs TKO 4 (25) Jul 24, 1899 Seabright Casino, Ocean City, Maryland, US
95 Loss 74–5–10 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden KO 23 (25) Apr 14, 1899 Broadway A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, US
94 Win 74–4–10 (6) Billy Ernst DQ 10 (20) Feb 6, 1899 Olympic A.C., Buffalo, New York, US Ernst DQ'd for headbutting Gans
93 Win 73–4–10 (6) Martin Judge PTS 20 Jan 28, 1899 Crescent A.C., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
92 Win 72–4–10 (6) Young Smyrna KO 2 (25), 2:50 Jan 13, 1899 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
91 Win 71–4–10 (6) Wilmington Jack Daly PTS 25 Dec 27, 1898 Lenox A.C., New York City, US
90 Win 70–4–10 (6) Kid McPartland PTS 25 Nov 4, 1898 Lenox A.C., New York City, US
89 Win 69–4–10 (6) William Duke PTS 4 Sep 30, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
88 Win 68–4–10 (6) Fred Sweigert PTS 4 Sep 29, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
87 Win 67–4–10 (6) James Martin TKO 4 (4) Sep 28, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
86 Win 66–4–10 (6) Joseph Smith TKO 1 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in one day
85 Win 65–4–10 (6) William Hinton TKO 1 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
84 Win 64–4–10 (6) Buck Baynor TKO 3 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
83 Win 63–4–10 (6) Herman Miller PTS 4 Sep 26, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
82 Win 62–4–10 (6) Thomas Jackson KO 3 (25), 1:32 Sep 1, 1898 Talbot county fair, Easton, Maryland, US
81 Win 61–4–10 (6) Young Smyrna TKO 15 (25), 2:23 Aug 26, 1898 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
80 Win 60–4–10 (6) Billy Ernst KO 11 (25) Aug 8, 1898 Greater New York A.C., New York City, US
79 Win 59–4–10 (6) George Brown TKO 6 (10) Jul 1, 1898 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
78 Win 58–4–10 (6) Joe Kid Robinson PTS 6 Jun 3, 1898 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
77 NC 57–4–10 (6) Joe Kid Robinson NC 3 (6) Jun 2, 1898 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US The lights went out in the building, and the show had to be called off until next day.
76 Win 57–4–10 (5) Steve Crosby RTD 6 (20) May 11, 1898 Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US
75 Win 56–4–10 (5) Young Starlight TKO 3 (3) Apr 11, 1898 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in a day
74 Win 55–4–10 (5) Young Smyrna TKO 3 (3) Apr 11, 1898 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight.
73 Win 54–4–10 (5) Tommy Shortell TKO 6 (8) Mar 11, 1898 Academy Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
72 Win 53–4–10 (5) Frank Garrard TKO 15 (20) Jan 17, 1898 Central Armory, Cleveland, Ohio, US
71 Win 52–4–10 (5) Billy Young TKO 2 (8) Jan 3, 1898 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
70 Win 51–4–10 (5) Stanton Abbott TKO 5 (8), 2:15 Nov 29, 1897 Academy of Music, Baltimore, Maryland, US
69 Draw 50–4–10 (5) Wilmington Jack Daly NWS 6 Nov 6, 1897 Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
68 Loss 50–4–9 (5) Bobby Dobbs PTS 20 Sep 27, 1897 Greenpoint S.C., New York City, US For world colored lightweight title
67 Draw 50–3–9 (5) Young Griffo PTS 15 Sep 21, 1897 Olympic A.C., Athens, Pennsylvania, US
66 Win 50–3–8 (5) Izzy Strauss KO 5 (15) Aug 30, 1897 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
65 Win 49–3–8 (5) Jack McCue TKO 6 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Fifth fight in a day
64 Win 48–3–8 (5) John Coates TKO 5 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Fourth fight in a day
63 Win 47–3–8 (5) Jerry Marshall TKO 8 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in a day
62 Win 46–3–8 (5) George Thomas TKO 3 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in a day
61 Win 45–3–8 (5) August Stenzie TKO 3 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US
60 Win 44–3–8 (5) Mike Leonard PTS 20 May 18, 1897 Olympic A.C., San Francisco, California, US
59 Win 43–3–8 (5) Howard Wilson KO 9 (20) Apr 3, 1897 Polo A.C., New York City, US
58 Win 42–3–8 (5) Charles Rochette RTD 4 (10) Dec 14, 1896 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
57 Win 41–3–8 (5) Jerry Marshall PTS 20 Nov 12, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
56 Win 40–3–8 (5) Jack Williams TKO 3 (8) Oct 19, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight.
55 Loss 39–3–8 (5) Dal Hawkins PTS 15 Oct 6, 1896 Bohemian Sporting Club, New York City, US
54 Win 39–2–8 (5) John Ball PTS 4 Sep 28, 1896 East Side A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
53 Draw 38–2–8 (5) Danny McBride PTS 20 Aug 31, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
52 Win 38–2–7 (5) Jack Williams TKO 2 (?) Aug 20, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
51 Win 37–2–7 (5) Tommy Butler PTS 12 Jun 29, 1896 South Brooklyn A.C., New York City, US
50 Win 36–2–7 (5) Jimmy Watson PTS 10 Jun 8, 1896 Bijou Theater, Paterson, New Jersey, US
49 Win 35–2–7 (5) Jimmy Kennard TKO 6 (12) Feb 22, 1896 West Newton Street Armory, Boston, Massachusetts, US
48 Win 34–2–7 (5) Joe Elliott KO 7 (8) Jan 17, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
47 Win 33–2–7 (5) Benny Peterson PTS 4 Jan 11, 1896 Ariel A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
46 Win 32–2–7 (5) George Siddons KO 7 (25), 2:50 Nov 28, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
45 Draw 31–2–7 (5) Young Griffo PTS 10 Nov 18, 1895 Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Pre-arranged draw if lasting full distance.
44 Win 31–2–6 (5) Joe Elliott KO 9 (25) Oct 21, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
43 Draw 30–2–6 (5) George Siddons PTS 20 Jul 15, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
42 Win 30–2–5 (5) Howard Wilson PTS 10 May 28, 1895 Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
41 Win 29–2–5 (5) Benny Peterson KO 17 (20) May 20, 1895 Riverside Athletic Club, New York City, US
40 Win 28–2–5 (5) George Willis KO 4 (10) May 14, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
39 Draw 27–2–5 (5) Howard Wilson PTS 6 May 9, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
38 Win 27–2–4 (5) Frank Peabody TKO 3 (8) May 4, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
37 Win 26–2–4 (5) Kentucky Rosebud TKO 8 (8) Apr 25, 1895 Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
36 Win 25–2–4 (5) David Armstrong TKO 3 (6) Apr 18, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
35 Loss 24–2–4 (5) Johnny Van Heest PTS 9 (8) Apr 13, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Gans had Van Heese whipped to a standstill in the eighth round,
but Mr. Daniel Carr, the referee, ordered an extra round.
Though Van Heest had none the best of the last round, he was given the decision.
34 Win 24–1–4 (5) Kentucky Rosebud NWS 6 Apr 1, 1895 Monumental Amphitheater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
33 Win 23–1–4 (5) Paul Johnson PTS 6 Mar 22, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
32 Win 22–1–4 (5) Harry Hunt TKO 4 (?) Mar 20, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
31 Draw 21–1–4 (5) Howard Wilson PTS 10 Mar 18, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
30 Draw 21–1–3 (5) Fred Sweigert PTS 10 Mar 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
29 Win 21–1–2 (5) Solomon English TKO 10 (10) Mar 6, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police interfered.
28 Win 20–1–2 (5) Max Wirsing TKO 3 (?) Mar 4, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
27 Draw 19–1–2 (5) James Daly PTS 11 (10) Feb 16, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US An extra-round was fought.
26 Win 19–1–1 (5) James Davis KO 3 (10) Feb 12, 1895 Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
25 Win 18–1–1 (5) John Ball PTS 6 Feb 12, 1895 Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
24 Win 17–1–1 (5) John Coates PTS 11 (10) Feb 11, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US An additional round was fought to decide the winner.
23 Win 16–1–1 (5) Samuel Young KO 3 (?) Feb 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
22 Win 15–1–1 (5) Fred Sweigert PTS 10 Feb 6, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
21 Draw 14–1–1 (5) Dave Horn PTS 10 Jan 23, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
20 Win 14–1 (5) George Brummell TKO 5 (?) Jan 19, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
19 Win 13–1 (5) Paul Johnson PTS 10 Jan 11, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
18 Win 12–1 (5) Bud Brown PTS 10 Jan 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day after Allen's corner man offered to fight Gans
17 Win 11–1 (5) Samuel Allen KO 3 (?) Jan 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
16 Win 10–1 (5) Fred Sweigert PTS ? Jan 1, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
15 Win 9–1 (5) Jack McDonald TKO 8 (?) Dec 28, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
14 Win 8–1 (5) John Coates PTS 10 Dec 27, 1894 Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
13 Win 7–1 (5) Fred Sweigert NWS 10 Dec 21, 1894 Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
12 Win 6–1 (5) Travis Brown PTS 6 Dec 17, 1894 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
11 ND 5–1 (5) Bud Young ND 4 Nov 27, 1894 Canton Academy, Baltimore, Maryland, US
10 ND 5–1 (4) Paul Johnson ND 3 (?) Nov 12, 1894 Grand Army Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Gans was fouled and could not continue. Ruled a no decision
9 Win 5–1 (3) Jackson TKO 3 (4) Jul 10, 1894 Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
8 Loss 4–1 (3) Paul Johnson PTS 5 Jun 27, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US For vacant Maryland colored lightweight title
7 Win 4–0 (3) Gustav Wilkie PTS 4 Jun 26, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
6 ND 3–0 (3) Robert Cook ND ? May 21, 1894 M F Conklin's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
5 Win 3–0 (2) Harry Brian PTS ? Apr 25, 1894 Allerino Gannic Casino, Baltimore, Maryland, US
4 ND 2–0 (2) Dave Horn ND 3 (?) Apr 19, 1894 Beach's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
3 Win 2–0 (1) William Jones KO 4 (?) Feb 12, 1894 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
2 Win 1–0 (1) William Jones RTD 6 (?) Nov 27, 1893 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
1 ND 0–0 (1) Buck Myers ND ? Oct 23, 1893 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US

Sports achievements

[edit]
Awards and achievements
Preceded by World Lightweight Champion
12 May 1902 – 4 July 1908 		Succeeded by
Sporting positions
Preceded by Latest Born World Champion to Die
August 10 – October 15, 1910 		Succeeded by

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Joe Gans

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Joe Gans (November 25, 1874 – August 10, 1910) was an American professional boxer who became the first African American to claim a world boxing title by defeating Frank Erne for the crown in 1902, a feat accomplished amid widespread racial barriers in the sport that limited opportunities for black fighters. Born Joseph Gant in , , Gans turned professional in 1891 and built a career marked by technical mastery, including precise punching, elusive footwork, and defensive prowess that earned him the nickname "." His professional record stood at 131 wins, 8 losses, 13 draws, 17 no contests, and 2 no decisions, with 88 knockouts among his victories. Gans secured the vacant world championship on May 12, 1902, knocking out Erne in the first round at , , and made several defenses before losing the title to Oscar "Battling" Nelson via disqualification in the 17th round on September 3, 1908, in . Among his most notable bouts were three wars with Nelson, including a 42-round draw in 1906 that highlighted his endurance and skill in prolonged fights under the era's no-time-limit rules. Gans faced additional challenges, including allegations of fixed fights—such as his 1900 loss to Terry McGovern, which he later admitted was thrown—and contractual disputes that delayed title opportunities due to racial prejudices from promoters and champions. Diagnosed with around 1907, the disease progressively weakened him, leading to retirement after a 1909 loss to Nelson and his death from consumption in at age 35.

Early Life

Childhood in Baltimore

Joseph Gant, later known as Joe Gans, was born on November 25, 1874, in , , to parents whose names remain unknown. Orphaned at the age of four following the early deaths of both parents, he was taken in by a foster mother named Maria Gans (or Gant), who raised him in the city's Fells Point neighborhood amid widespread poverty. With limited formal education, Gans left school at a young age—likely around eight or nine—to contribute to his upkeep by shucking oysters at the Broadway Market, a common child labor role in Baltimore's harbor economy during the late 1880s. Gans matured in a segregated working-class African-American enclave in post-Reconstruction , where Jim Crow restrictions and economic precarity constrained opportunities, yet his trajectory exemplified personal initiative in overcoming hardship through labor and rather than dependence on external aid. Historical records highlight his early displays of physical resilience and , traits that propelled him from dockside toil without evident reliance on communal or institutional support structures prevalent in analyses of the era's racial dynamics. His initial foray into occurred informally around age 15 or 16, facilitated by his oyster market employer, Caleb Bond, who supplied gloves and arranged preliminary scraps to channel Gans's natural athleticism. Lacking structured amateur training, Gans honed his skills through self-taught practice and participation in "battle royals"—multi-fighter brawls often staged for amusement—which underscored his innate talent for defensive precision and endurance despite the rudimentary and sometimes exploitative conditions. By 1891, at age 17, these experiences had built a foundation of ring savvy independent of formal coaching.

Introduction to Professional Boxing

Joe Gans turned professional in 1891 at the age of 16 or 17, beginning his career in small venues around , Maryland. His early bouts often occurred in informal settings like saloons, where he quickly demonstrated prowess in the division, typically contested at weights between 133 and 135 pounds. Gans compiled an impressive early record, including numerous knockouts that highlighted his exceptional speed, defensive skills, and punching power relative to division standards. Gans earned the nickname "Old Master" early in his career for his mature, scientific approach to boxing, which emphasized precise footwork, effective jabbing, and counterpunching techniques. This style marked a departure from the prevalent brawling norms of the era, showcasing his self-taught innovations derived from observing other fighters. His ring intelligence and tactical discipline allowed for rapid adaptation to professional demands, setting the foundation for sustained success. Despite initial setbacks, including losses that tested his resilience, Gans refined his abilities through dedicated preparation and analysis of opponents. By the end of the , he had achieved a record of 58 wins, 3 losses, and 6 draws, with two no-decisions, underscoring the causal effectiveness of his rigorous training regimen in overcoming early challenges.

Professional Career

Initial Fights and Breakthroughs

Gans turned professional in 1891 under the management of Al Herford, who recognized his potential after observing his dominance in informal bouts. By 1900, he had amassed a record of 82 wins, 5 losses, and 13 draws across approximately 100 contests, primarily in and divisions, demonstrating exceptional volume and consistency against a mix of regional opponents. This pace included rare instances of multiple fights within short periods, underscoring his stamina and recovery capacity, as evidenced by bouts scheduled on consecutive days or even the same day early in his career. Key victories over established contenders built his reputation for tactical precision and power. In a series against George "Elbows" McFadden, Gans secured a majority of outcomes in their favor, including a 25-round points draw on July 28, 1899, and subsequent wins that highlighted his superiority in and ring generalship despite McFadden's aggressive style. These interracial matchups, facilitated by Herford's negotiations amid widespread racial barriers in , contributed to extended win streaks against white fighters, empirically countering contemporary pseudoscientific assertions of inherent racial deficits in combat sports ability through Gans's repeated technical mastery and knockout finishes. From to , Gans registered numerous knockouts, leveraging his defensive footwork and counterpunching to overwhelm opponents, which propelled him toward title contention by establishing divisional dominance via verifiable streaks of uninterrupted victories. Herford's role in lining up these high-risk bouts against ranked contenders, often for modest purses due to racial , positioned Gans as a proven and tactician, setting the stage for his ascent without reliance on fixed outcomes or undue favoritism.

Acquisition and Defense of the Lightweight Title

On May 12, 1902, Joe Gans defeated reigning world champion Frank Erne by first-round in , , claiming the title after 100 seconds of fighting under Marquis of Queensberry rules with gloves. This victory marked Gans as the first African-American to hold a major world in the , achieved through precise counterpunching and superior speed against a champion who had previously outpointed him in a non-title bout. The fight's outcome reflected Gans' tactical edge in exploiting Erne's aggressive style, rather than reliance on weight advantages or rule leniency, as both met the 133-pound limit without reported disputes. Gans maintained the lightweight crown until 1908, executing at least 15 successful defenses over six years against 13 opponents, a record sustained amid the era's variable glove usage and occasional bare-knuckle exhibitions in non-title contests. Notable defenses included a 1904 bout against Jimmy Britt in , where Gans retained the title via disqualification after Britt struck him illegally while down in the fifth round, demonstrating Gans' resilience in adhering to defensive fundamentals under pressure. Other verified title fights saw Gans secure knockouts or points victories through methodical pressure and ring generalship, with minimal documented weight-making failures attributable to his disciplined training regimen focused on and precision rather than brute force. The frequency and profitability of these matches underscored promoters' pragmatic assessments of Gans' drawing power, as evidenced by substantial gate receipts in several defenses—such as over $4,000 split in a 1905 lightweight-eligible bout—stemming from his proven ability to deliver decisive outcomes that attracted paying audiences, independent of racial barriers that often limited for fighters. This promoter investment, driven by empirical fight results rather than favoritism, highlighted causal factors like Gans' innovative use of feints and footwork to control distance, enabling repeated triumphs in an unregulated where inferior conditioning typically led to early defeats.

Iconic Bouts and Endurance Tests

One of Joe Gans's most grueling encounters was his 20-round draw against champion on September 30, 1904, at Woodward's Pavilion in . Walcott, fighting above his natural as a , absorbed heavy punishment from the heavier puncher but maintained resilience through superior defensive skills and footwork, preventing a despite the size disadvantage. This bout underscored Gans's capacity to endure against welterweight power in a non-title match. Gans's endurance reached legendary status in his lightweight title defense against Battling Nelson on September 3, 1906, at the Goldfield Athletic Club in , a fight that lasted rounds—the longest ever filmed—before Nelson's disqualification for repeated fouling. Promoters staged the event to publicize the remote mining town, offering a $33,500 purse split unevenly at $11,000 for Gans and $22,500 for the challenger Nelson, who was favored by odds despite Gans's championship status. Gans, severely weakened by dehydrating to meet the 133-pound limit under scorching desert heat, floored Nelson multiple times with precise counters yet fought through exhaustion and illegal blows, including low shots and eye gouges, demonstrating exceptional stamina and ring generalship. These matches highlighted Gans's ability to extend fights into marathon distances, relying on tactical to outlast aggressive opponents rather than seeking early finishes, as evidenced by bout records showing minimal knockdowns inflicted on him despite prolonged exposure to heavier hitters.

Title Loss and Final Years

Gans lost his world lightweight title to on July 4, 1908, in , when referee Jack Welsh halted the bout in the 17th round after Gans sustained deep cuts above both eyes that caused excessive bleeding and impaired vision. The technical knockout ended Gans's second tenure as , which had lasted intermittently since 1902 and included numerous defenses against top contenders. While some contemporary reports speculated on Gans's condition or possible external influences, the points to fatigue from extreme weight-cutting—dropping to 133 pounds under hot conditions—and the accumulated damage from over 150 prior professional engagements, as Gans struggled to maintain pace after an early lead. A rematch followed on September 9, 1908, at the same venue, where Nelson knocked out Gans in the 21st round of another grueling affair, retaining the title and confirming Gans's decline against elite opposition. Gans, then 33 years old and approaching his mid-30s, persisted in the ring through , securing sporadic victories over non-title foes but registering more setbacks and no-decision outcomes amid reduced output and power. This phase reflected the causal toll of bare-knuckle-era boxing's lack of protections, round limits, and recovery protocols, with Gans's career totaling approximately 170 bouts—yielding 145 wins (), 10 losses, 16 draws, and numerous exhibitions—rather than any verified instances of intentional underperformance.

Personal Challenges and Death

Lifestyle and Relationships

Gans entered into multiple marriages during his lifetime. He wed Mary Beulah Gant, with whom he fathered two children prior to embarking on his endeavors; the couple later divorced, and she succumbed to consumption on March 18, 1896. He subsequently married Madge Watkins, an , on April 8, 1900, marking his third union; the pair separated by the time of his death, with Madge residing in . Gans also married , though this relationship produced no offspring. Raised by foster mother Maria Gans after being orphaned at age four, Gans maintained ties to his adoptive family amid the demands of his peripatetic schedule, which necessitated frequent travel to training camps and bouts across the . To achieve financial autonomy and buffer against the vicissitudes of prizefight purses—which could swell to $11,000 for marquee victories like the bout against but often dwindled due to managerial cuts and living costs—Gans channeled earnings into enterprises, including the , a combined saloon and constructed post-Nevada windfalls. An earlier bid for a to operate a saloon in 1897 proved unsuccessful, underscoring the era's regulatory hurdles for African American entrepreneurs. These ventures reflected deliberate efforts at rather than profligacy, with no corroborated evidence of personal excesses like excessive alcohol use undermining his agency or longevity beyond the sport's physical toll.

Battle with Tuberculosis

In early 1909, Joe Gans was reported to have developed tuberculosis of the lungs, a condition that manifested symptoms including coughing and respiratory distress, likely compounded by the physical toll of repeated weight-cutting to meet the 135-pound lightweight limit and the cumulative punishment from prolonged prizefights. Contemporary accounts noted the disease's onset around a year prior to his death, with possible initial exposure linked to environments like San Francisco during high-profile bouts, where urban density and post-1906 earthquake conditions may have heightened transmission risks for pulmonary tuberculosis. Seeking relief in the pre-antibiotic era, when tuberculosis mortality exceeded 100 per 100,000 annually in the United States and treatments emphasized fresh air and rest, Gans traveled to arid regions such as , in late spring 1910, following medical advice to sleep outdoors and benefit from dry desert climates believed to inhibit bacterial growth. Despite these efforts, his condition deteriorated, rendering him bedridden for months, as the infection progressed unchecked without effective antimicrobial options available until decades later. He returned to in his final weeks, where the disease's biological progression—lung cavitation and systemic weakening—proved fatal for an athlete already compromised by vocational stresses, rather than isolated socioeconomic factors. Gans died on August 10, 1910, at age 35 in a hospital, with death attributed directly to consumption () by attending physicians and contemporaneous reports, showing no indications of external causes or foul play. In an era when claimed lives across demographics but hit urban poor and physically strained individuals hardest due to delayed diagnosis and limited access, Gans's case exemplified the pathogen's inexorable course absent modern interventions like , developed only in 1943.

Legacy and Achievements

Technical Innovations and Ranking

Joe Gans pioneered aspects of scientific through his emphasis on defensive precision, feinting, and targeted body punching, setting him apart from the era's prevalent swarming brawlers. His mastery of the jab served as both a and setup for power shots, while his pinpoint accuracy allowed attacks on vital areas with minimal wasted motion, reflecting an athletic efficiency that prioritized control over reckless aggression. Gans's ring generalship involved superior footwork and spatial awareness, enabling him to dictate pace and exploit opponents' imbalances, often fighting heavier foes despite his frame never exceeding 137 pounds. In stamina training and endurance, Gans exemplified pre-modern resilience, sustaining high-output performances over extended rounds, as evidenced by his 42-round victory over on September 3, 1906, where he maintained offensive pressure despite a broken hand. This versatility—blending defense with devastating s—yielded a career record of 147 wins, 101 by , underscoring his offensive potency beyond mere survival tactics. Some contemporaries critiqued his measured approach as overly cautious, yet empirical data refutes this: his rate exceeded 68% of victories, demonstrating causal effectiveness in finishing fights decisively rather than prolonging them unnecessarily. Gans's innovations transcended era-specific limitations, including racial barriers that limited opportunities, with his technical merit earning recognition unmarred by contemporary biases against non-white fighters. He holds the record for the most lightweight title defenses prior to the modern era, with eight successful defenses from 1902 to 1908, highlighting sustained dominance. Boxing historian Nat Fleischer, founder of The Ring magazine, ranked Gans as the greatest lightweight of all time in 1958, prioritizing his comprehensive skill set over later champions like Benny Leonard, whom Charley Rose placed ahead in 1968 rankings but still affirmed Gans's elite status. Drawbacks included occasional weight misses, forcing bouts against larger opponents, and ambiguities from no-decision rules prevalent before standardized judging, yet these do not diminish his data-backed preeminence in versatility and efficacy.

Honors and Inductions

Gans was inducted into the in 1990, recognizing his status as the first native-born African American to claim a world boxing title and his pioneering scientific boxing style. He earned a professional record of 131 wins, including 88 knockouts, against 9 losses and 13 draws, though exact tallies vary due to inconsistent documentation of early 20th-century bouts and no-decision outcomes common before standardized rules. Boxing historian Nat Fleischer, founder of The Ring magazine, ranked Gans as the greatest lightweight champion of all time, crediting his defensive mastery and ring generalship amid an era lacking unified sanctioning bodies, which sometimes led to disputed title claims across regional promoters. Gans secured the world lightweight championship twice—first on May 12, 1902, against Frank Erne, and later reclaiming it in 1906—defending it up to 15 times against diverse challengers, a feat unmatched in the division's early history despite governance fragmentation. These honors underscore his empirical dominance, with over 100 verified victories, while highlighting how pre-modern boxing's decentralized structure obscured some records and recognitions.

Broader Societal Impact

Joe Gans's ascent to the world lightweight championship on May 12, 1902, marked the first instance of a native-born African American securing a major title, challenging entrenched racial hierarchies through demonstrated prowess rather than advocacy or entitlement. His victory over Frank Erne by first-round empirically refuted pseudoscientific claims of innate racial inferiority in athletic competition, as Gans's technical mastery—rooted in defensive footwork and precise counterpunching—outmatched opponents irrespective of ethnicity. This breakthrough facilitated opportunities for subsequent black champions, such as Jack Johnson in the heavyweight division, by establishing precedent that skill, not skin color, dictated viability in professional pugilism. Amid Jim Crow-era constraints, Gans navigated promoter-imposed handicaps, including mandates to extend bouts against inferior white challengers to preserve gate revenues and appease audiences skeptical of black dominance. Yet his self-reliant trajectory—from orphaned youth laboring as an oyster shucker to amassing career earnings exceeding contemporaries through talent alone—underscored causal agency over perpetual victimhood narratives often amplified in biased academic retrospectives. Interracial contests, such as his grueling series with white Dane , generated unprecedented public interest and purses, advancing a meritocratic in while exposing exploitative racial ; promoters profited from hype, but Gans's repeated triumphs validated individual excellence as the decisive factor. Critics of interracial bouts highlighted risks of reinforcing via staged vulnerabilities, yet the empirical record—Gans's 11-1 edge over Nelson across rematches—disproved such concerns, fostering broader acceptance of cross-racial competition on equal terms. By prioritizing verifiable outcomes over identity-driven interpretations, Gans's career exemplified how exceptional performance erodes discriminatory barriers, influencing sports integration without reliance on institutional favoritism.

Cultural and Historical References

Literary Mentions

featured Joe Gans as a character in his 1916 short story "A Matter of Colour," an early work that showcased the author's interest in boxing's tactical elements. In the narrative, Gans embodies the precision and endurance Hemingway admired in fighters, foreshadowing themes of resilience and strategy in later Hemingway fiction like "The Battler" and his play The Fifth Column. This portrayal drew from Gans's documented ring mastery, including his defensive innovations and counterpunching, which Hemingway observed through contemporary reports of bouts such as the 1906 Gans-Nelson fight in . Hemingway's use of Gans contributed to the emergence of realistic depictions of boxing in , emphasizing empirical technique over romanticized heroism. Literary critic H.L. Mencken also referenced Gans in essays on boxing, highlighting his "innate sixth sense" and status as a "master of all ring men," which influenced period discussions of athletic intellect in sports writing. These mentions underscore Gans's role in shaping literary appreciation for scientific boxing amid early 20th-century racial barriers in the sport.

Media Representations

The Gans-Nelson lightweight championship bout on September 3, 1906, in Goldfield, Nevada, marked one of the earliest extensively filmed major boxing events, with motion picture footage capturing significant portions of the 42-round fight, which Gans won by disqualification in the final round after Nelson's repeated fouling. Titled The Joe Gans-Battling Nelson Fight, this short film preserved authentic ringside action and was distributed for public viewing, contributing to the growing popularity of cinema as a medium for sports documentation in the early 20th century. Contemporary illustrations depicted audiences, including women, gathered to watch projections of the fight footage, highlighting its role in broadening public access to high-profile amid the era's technological advancements in . The film's archival value endures, with restored versions and highlights available in modern digital formats, underscoring Gans's historical significance in sports media. In the , visual media portrayals remain limited to rather than dramatized features, with no major Hollywood biopics produced. The 2023 short The Longest Fight, The Joe Gans Story, directed by Ted Faye and produced by Gold Creek Films, reconstructs the Goldfield bout's context and Gans's career challenges, drawing on historical records and Nevada's mining boom backdrop. Earlier efforts include NPR's 2012 radio segment "Rediscovering A Forgotten Boxer's 'Longest Fight'," which featured audio dramatizations and interviews to revive interest in the event's racial and athletic dimensions. Online video tributes, such as a May 2022 overview of Gans's career on boxing history channels, continue to disseminate factual accounts without fictional embellishment.

Boxing Record

Verified Professional Record

Joe Gans turned professional in 1893 and fought until 1909, primarily as a with occasional bouts at and . , a comprehensive database of boxing records drawing from historical and verified fight reports, tallies his authenticated professional bouts at 147 wins, including 101 , 10 losses, and 16 draws across 173 decided contests, with additional entries for no-contests or exhibitions not factored into the win-loss totals. A 1910 newspaper account published shortly after his death listed a more conservative verified record of 131 wins (88 by knockout), 9 losses, and 13 draws, reflecting only bouts with formal outcomes amid the era's inconsistent documentation. Gans demonstrated remarkable consistency, including an undefeated streak spanning 1902 to 1906 during which he captured and defended the world title multiple times against top contenders. This period highlighted his defensive mastery and power, contributing to his overall rate exceeding 68%. Early career fights from 1891 or 1892, sometimes cited in biographical accounts, remain unverified as professional debuts and are excluded from standard tallies. Boxing in Gans' era operated under variable rules by jurisdiction, with many bouts—especially shorter exhibitions or those in restrictive states like New York before the 1920 Walker Law—ending in no-decisions where newspapers retrospectively awarded verdicts based on rounds fought, influencing modern aggregations like but not always contemporary official counts. These no-decision outcomes, often from 3- to 6-round limits to evade gambling bans, comprised a significant portion of his activity, underscoring the challenges in verifying exact records without primary fight cards or referee rulings.

Notable Unofficial or Disputed Matches

Gans participated in 19 no-decision bouts throughout his , a common practice in early 20th-century American boxing to comply with state laws prohibiting official verdicts in contests exceeding 4 or 6 rounds, thereby avoiding classification as illegal prizefights. correspondents frequently rendered unofficial assessments based on observed action, crediting Gans with 13 such wins, 2 losses, and 4 draws, which expanded his documented engagements beyond the official tally of 167 fights. Among these, a notable example was the October 1903 10-round no-decision affair against Kid White in Baltimore, where Gans knocked White down for counts of 10 twice—once in the third round and again later—securing an overwhelming newspaper verdict despite the official lack of outcome. Another occurred on May 17, 1906, against Willie Lewis in Los Angeles over 6 rounds, resulting in a rare newspaper loss for Gans after Lewis landed effective counters amid Gans' pressure. These bouts highlighted Gans' dominance in unregulated settings but underscored the subjective nature of press scorings, which lacked standardization and sometimes diverged sharply. While the era featured widespread suspicions of manipulated results—particularly in high-stakes lightweight divisions—no substantiated claims of fixing attached to Gans' no-decision losses, prioritizing instead verifiable ring performances over conjecture.

References

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