Joe Louis’ first defeat came in KO loss as he competed in ‘Fight of the Year’

Joe Louis lost first professional fight to Max Schmeling in 1936

In June 1936, Louis would compete in a headline bout at Yankee Stadium, New York. His opponent would be German heavyweight Max Schmeling, who had a 48-7-4 record at the time.

The two would compete in a 15-round non-title bout, as Louis was looking to extend his unbeaten streak to 25. The American was just 22 years of age on fight night, while Schmeling was 30 years old.

Although the fight was supposed to set up Louis’ first world title opportunity, he would be stunned by the German. In what was named The Ring Magazine’s ‘Fight of the Year’ for 1936, Louis would be defeated.

Dropped in both the 4th and 12th rounds, Louis would be stopped in the latter. Both men had success in the huge bout, however, it was the German who prevailed.

Joe Louis and Max Schmeling met for a second time in 1938

In one of the most famous boxing matches of all time, Louis would get a chance at revenge against Schmeling. Following his loss to the German, Louis notched up 11 wins in a row.

As for Schmeling, he had won three fights since defeating Louis.

The two had their sequel bout in June 1938, almost exactly two years after their first meeting. This time, the two would compete for the world heavyweight title.

Lewis had claimed the heavyweight title from James J. Braddock the year prior, meaning he was the defending champion. As well as this, the fight between the American and the German boasted significant political interest.

Despite huge anticipation for the fight, it would not be a long brawl between the pair. Delivering an aggressive performance, Louis knocked out Schmeling in the first round.

Suffering three knockdowns, the German’s corner threw in the towel as Schmeling hit the canvas for the third time. The time of the stoppage was just after the two-minute mark.