 Joe Luis Barrow overcame poverty and racism to become one of the greatest boxing champions of all time the Brown Bomber turned pro in 1934 and won his first 27 fights 23 by knockout in 1936 Louis tasted his first defeat at the hands of Germany's Max Schmeling a loss magnified by the growing threat of Nazi aggression in Europe Louis rebounded to win the heavyweight title from James Braddock one year later Setting up a dramatic rematch with Schmeling in 1938 this time Louis prevailed with a devastating first-round knockout turning Louis into a national hero Despite taking a break to serve in the US Army Louis managed to hold on to the belt for 12 years in that span He defended his title 25 times the most ever for a heavyweight champion Celebrating black history. I'm Megan Triple