JACK DEMPSEY vs JESS WILLARD small tee 1919 throwback Toledo boxing Tshirt retro
This is a previously-owned, adult-small (S), gray, short-sleeved T-shirt with “Jack Dempsey vs. Jess Willard / World’s Championship Bout of 1919 / Toledo, Ohio / Borth of a Champion” printed on the front. It measures approximately 17 inches (from underarm seam to underarm seam), about 26½ inches from back collar to bottom, and is in great shape (Jup Mode brand, 50% cotton / 50% polyester).
In 1919, Jess Willard was the reigning world champion with a brutal reputation. He gained notoriety when he fought Jack “Bull” Young in 1913. During the fight, Willard punched Young so hard that a piece of his broken jaw drove into his skull and he died in the 9th round. Willard was charged with second-degree murder, but fought the charges in court and won. In 1915, he became the World Heavyweight Champion after defeating Jack Johnson. His Toledo bout with Dempsey lasted till the start of the 4th round when Willard failed to leave his corner. Dempsey was crowned the new champion and went on to hold and defend that title for six years, while the older beaten Willard slipped into retirement and only ever boxed again in exhibitions…
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