Boxing is all about self-worth and realizing one’s potential against all the odds. There is more to boxing than just fighting someone else in the ring. It is a journey of self-exploration, pain, happiness, disappointments, and triumphs. Filmmakers tried to capture the real essence of boxing and the incredible struggles of boxers who rose on top of their agony and sufferings. … [Read more...]
Senate Passes Amendment to Pardon Jack Johnson
In yet another attempt to pardon Jack Johnson, the first African American heavyweight champion, for a conviction of transporting a white woman across state lines, a violation of the Mann Act, the U.S. Senate has passed an amendment urging the president to pardon Johnson. On July 17, Senator Harry Reid (D-NV) and John McCain (R-AZ) introduced an amendment to pardon Jack … [Read more...]
What If’s Excellent Heavyweight Adventure Part 16: Vuja De
Welcome to another episode of What If's Excellent Heavyweight Adventure, where eight men enter...and four men leave. From here out, I'm assuming you're familiar with the series; if not, punch “What If” into the Tribune's search function---the archive's all there. Previously, on What If: There are two rematches on tap in this week's edition. In the very first fight of the … [Read more...]
What If’s Excellent Heavyweight Adventure Part 14: Mama Said Knock You Out
Welcome to another episode of What If's Excellent Heavyweight Adventure, where the time has finally arrived---every fight from here on out is win or it's into the time machine with you for a trip back to your own era. From here out, I'm assuming you're familiar with the series; if not, punch “What If” into the Tribune's search function---the archive's all there. Previously, on … [Read more...]
What If’s Excellent Heavyweight Adventure Part 10: You’ve Got Red On You
Welcome to another edition of What If?, as the first round of the heavyweight tournament group stage continues. Read the intro and method here. Catch up with the 1910s and 1950s group stage in Episodes two and six. Previously, on What If: As we go into the final group-stage fights, Jack Johnson and Ezzard Charles have nothing to play for; they are 2-0, their tickets … [Read more...]