James Jeffris American professional boxer Date of Birth: 15.04.1875 Country: USA

1. Jim Jeffries Biography
2. Early Career
3. World Champion
4. Champion vs. 'Gentleman Jim'
5. Other Title Defenses
6. Retirement and Return
7. Later Life and Legacy

Jim Jeffries Biography

Jim Jeffries was a legendary American professional boxer and heavyweight world champion. He was known for his incredible strength and endurance. Jeffries began boxing at the amateur level until the age of 20 when he turned professional.

Early Career

In his third professional fight, Jeffries knocked out the highly regarded African-American boxer Hank Griffin. He then fought Gus Ruhlin, another well-known heavyweight, resulting in a draw, despite Jeffries coming close to a victory in the final round. In 1898, Jeffries defeated Peter Jackson, marking the second defeat in Jackson's career. He went on to defeat Pete Everett and Tom Sharkey.

World Champion

Jeffries earned the opportunity to compete for the heavyweight world championship title after defeating Bob Armstrong. On June 9, 1899, he became the world champion by knocking out Bob Fitzsimmons. Jeffries successfully defended his title against Tom Sharkey and Jack Finnegan, both ending in victories for him.

Champion vs. 'Gentleman Jim'

In a highly anticipated fight, Jeffries faced the fast and technical boxer James 'Gentleman Jim' Corbett. If the entire fight had gone the distance, Corbett would have had a chance at winning. However, in the 23rd round out of 25 planned rounds, Jeffries delivered a sudden left hook knockout to Corbett.

Other Title Defenses

Jeffries faced Gus Ruhlin as his fourth title defense, resulting in Ruhlin's trainer throwing in the towel between the 5th and 6th round. His fifth defense proved to be more challenging as Bob Fitzsimmons dominated Jeffries for eight rounds before being knocked out by Jeffries' left hook.

Retirement and Return

Jeffries retired undefeated in May 1905. However, he made a comeback on July 4, 1910, to fight Jack Johnson. Jeffries had lost significant form during his retirement but was enticed by a substantial guaranteed reward. The fight took place in scorching heat, and Johnson eventually defeated Jeffries in the 15th round.

Later Life and Legacy

After retiring for the second time, Jeffries became involved in coaching and promotional activities. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990. Jim Jeffries passed away on March 3, 1953, at the age of 77.