Joe Gans

Source: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
Joe Gans
Gans in 1899
Born
Joseph Gant

November 25, 1874
DiedAugust 10, 1910(1910-08-10) (aged 35)
Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
NationalityAmerican
Other namesOld Master
Statistics
Weight(s)Lightweight
Height5 ft 6+12 in (1.69 m)
Reach71 in (180 cm)
StanceOrthodox
Boxing record
Total fights197
Wins157
Wins by KO100
Losses12
Draws22
No contests6

Joe Gans (born Joseph Gant; November 25, 1874 – August 10, 1910) was an American professional boxer. Gans was rated the greatest lightweight boxer of all-time by boxing historian and Ring Magazine founder, Nat Fleischer. Known as the "Old Master", he became the first African-American world boxing champion of the 20th century, reigning continuously as world lightweight champion from 1902 to 1908, defending the title 15 times versus 13 boxers.[1] He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.

Career

Portrait of Gans

Gans started boxing professionally in early 1891. Starting in Baltimore, he gained many fans within the boxing world, both white and black alike, with his "scientific" approach to fighting.[2]

Unlike the more brutish and adrenaline-fueled fighting styles more prevalent in the time, Gans’ fighting method involved learning an opponent's strengths and weaknesses to compete with a game plan. He fought through much adversity and unfair stipulations for certain fights. On three separate occasions in 1895, he had to fight an extra round after going the distance. In a fight versus Johnny Van Heest, "Gans had Van Heese whipped to a standstill in the eighth round, but Mr. Daniel Carr, the referee, ordered an extra round. Though Van Heese had none the best of the last round, he was given the decision.[3] Against Bobby Dobbs, "Gans had to stop Dobbs in 10 rounds or get the loser's end of the purse (25 percent) and also had to pay Dobbs $50 for every round after 10th that the latter was able to stay. Dobbs asked his seconds to throw up the sponge in the middle of the 14th round, claiming a sore hand. Dobbs was down repeatedly, either from knockdowns or going down on his own. In the fight with Buddy King in 1903, they fought in the drizzling rain[3]

A slender man, never weighing over 137 pounds, Gans frequently fought heavier boxers, thus adding to the legend of his scientific fighting technique.[4] He became known as a true student of the sport, earning him the nickname “Old Master.”

Two fights in one day

On January 7, 1895, after knocking out Samuel Allen in three rounds, Allen's second, Bud Brown, immediately challenged to fight Gans. Not backing down from a fight, Gans accepted and outpointed Brown in a 10-round points decision.

Title bouts

On March 3, 1900, at the Broadway Athletic Club in New York, Gans quit with an eye injury in the twelfth round and lost via TKO while challenging lightweight champion Frank Erne in Gans' first title fight.

However, in their rematch two years later at International A.C., Fort Erie, Canada, Gans knocked Erne out in one round to convincingly take the world lightweight title. ""In the exchange, Gans got both hands to head, and Erne seemed a trifle dazed. Gans felt him out with a left shove to the face, drawing blood to nose. Erne seemed dazed, and Gans rushed and exchanged, putting right plump on Erne's jaw. Erne fell slowly to the floor with his mouth and nose bleeding, rolled over on his stomach, and was counted out before he could attempt to regain his feet." (wire report)"[3] Gans had thus become the first-ever African-American boxing champion; he had also become the first black title holder since the Canadian born, George Dixon won the bantamweight world title in 1892 [5] and the island-born Barbados Joe Walcott won the World Welterweight title on December 18, 1901.[6] Gans reigned as champion from 1902 to 1908.

On January 6, 1902, Gans defeated the former World Welterweight Champion Canadian born Eddie Connolly. Connolly lost in a five-round bout at the Washington Sports Club in Philadelphia.

One reporter noted that Connolly "did nothing but hug and wrestle, adding variety to his performance in the third by deliberately trying to butt the Baltimorean (Gans)." The reporter also noted that Connolly clinched frequently and "wrestled" rather than boxed, probably to protect himself from the fierce assaults of Gans. By the time the referee ended the bout in the fifth, Connolly had been "rendered practically helpless" by the powerful punching of Gans.[7]

Gans also defended his Lightweight World Title against other talented boxers such as Steve Crosby and Gus Gardiner. There was also Charley Sieger, Kid McPartland, Rufe Turner, Charles "Elbows" McFadden, and Frank Erne.

In an important title defense, he defeated the "Durable Dane" Oscar "Battling" Nelson in 42 rounds on September 3, 1906, in Goldfield, Nevada. This blockbuster fight, arranged by legendary promoter Tex Rickard, would eventually be honored with a historic memorial.

On September 15, 1905, Gans fought to a 15-round pre-arranged draw with future Welterweight World Championship claimant Mike "Twin" Sullivan. Most people reporting on the fights believed that Sullivan deserved the decision. In an immediate rematch, he defeated Sullivan by knockout on January 19 and March 17, 1906, in San Francisco and Los Angeles and again in March of the same year.

Although recorded as a Welterweight Title match and the bout supposedly had a weight limit set at around 142 pounds (which was estimated to be Sullivan's weigh-in), Gans' weigh-in was estimated to have been seven or eight pounds lighter. Gans' defeat of the heavier Sullivan, a strong puncher by reputation, showed his mastery in the ring. In this well-attended bout, Gans share of the gate was a considerable $2,425.20, and Sullivan's was $1,616.80. Gans reportedly had bet another $1,700 on himself, which, if accurate, made his earnings on the fight quite considerable.[8]

Gans and Battling Nelson fought for the World Lightweight title twice in Colma, California: first on July 4 and September 9 of 1908. Gans lost the first fight by KO in the 17th round of 45, ending his multi-year reign, and subsequently lost the immediate rematch via KO in the 21st round of 45.[8]

Draw with Barbados Joe Walcott

On September 30, 1904, Gans fought to a 20-round draw against Barbados Joe Walcott. "The San Francisco Chronicle reported that Walcott damaged ligaments in his left arm and that it was "useless from the 4th round on". It was announced before the fight that no title was at stake. Referee Jack Welch gave 7 rounds to Gans, 5 to Walcott, with 8 even, but thought that Walcott's aggressiveness compensated Gans' advantage in cleverness. Shortly after this fight Walcott accidentally shot himself in the hand and was out of action until January 1906."[3]

Death

Joe Gans died on August 10, 1910, of tuberculosis, at the age of 35. He is buried in Mount Auburn Cemetery (Baltimore, Maryland) in Baltimore. His monument is maintained by the International Boxing Commission and sits just to the left of the main entrance of the cemetery.

It reads: "I was born in the city of Baltimore in the year 1874, and it might be well to state at this time that my right name is Joseph Gant, not Gans. However, when I became an object of newspaper publicity, some reporter made a mistake and my name appeared as Joe Gans, and as Joe Gans it remained ever since."

Professional honors and legacy

Joe Walcott vs. Joe Gans

Gans had a final professional record of 145 wins with 100 knockouts, 10 losses, 16 draws, 6 no contests and 19 no decisions (Newspaper Decisions: 13-2-4). He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.[9]

A bronze statue of Joe Gans stands in the suite floor at Madison Square Garden but was previously outside of the locker rooms. Modern day boxers would traditionally bump the statue's outstretched left fist for good-luck before matches.[10]

Gans’ legendary fight on September 3, 1906, with Battling Nelson was commemorated with a memorial located in Goldfield, Nevada, at the site of the fight.[11]

Gans was the first African-American to win a World Boxing Championship and the first to win a Lightweight Boxing title. Gans' achievements not only set new records, but gave African Americans hope in the early twentieth century. In a time of racial segregation, champion Joe Gans somehow emerged victorious.[12]

Gans was rated the greatest Lightweight boxer of all-time by boxing historian and Ring Magazine founder, Nat Fleischer.

One boxing historian writes about Gans saying: "through his ring accomplishments, Gans put into action what others could only theorize. The articulation of the black quest for social equality reached large audiences through the pulpits, and the most authoritative sermons were published in newspapers and religious quarterlies".[13]

Motion picture

A four-reel motion picture of the second Gans-Nelson fight in Colma, California, was shown in theaters across the country. Above, reporter-artist Marguerite Martyn sketched her impression of women watching the film in St. Louis, Missouri, in October 1908.

The Gans-Nelson battle in Colma, California, was the subject of a four-reel motion picture that played in major cities around the country.

Hemingway connection

Ernest Hemingway utilized Joe Gans as a character in his 1916 short story 'A Matter of Colour'.[14] This early story set the stage for Hemingway's famous 1927 parable 'The Killers'.[15]

Professional boxing record

All information in this section is derived from BoxRec,[16] unless otherwise stated.

Official record

199 fights 147 wins 10 losses
By knockout 101 5
By decision 39 5
By disqualification 7 0
Draws 16
No contests 6
Newspaper decisions/draws 20

All newspaper decisions are officially regarded as “no decision” bouts and are not counted in the win/loss/draw column.

No. Result Record Opponent Type Round, time Date Location Notes
199 Win 147–10–16 (26) Jabez White NWS 10 Mar 12, 1909 National S.C., New York City, New York, US
198 Loss 147–10–16 (25) Battling Nelson KO 21 (45) Sep 9, 1908 Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, US For world lightweight title
197 Loss 147–9–16 (25) Battling Nelson KO 17 (45) Jul 4, 1908 Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, US Lost world lightweight title
196 Win 147–8–16 (25) Rudy Unholz TKO 11 (20) May 14, 1908 Coliseum, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
195 Win 146–8–16 (25) Frank 'Spike' Robson TKO 3 (6), 2:25 Apr 1, 1908 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
194 Win 145–8–16 (25) Bob Blackburn KO 3 (5) Jan 3, 1908 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
193 Win 144–8–16 (25) George Memsic PTS 20 Sep 27, 1907 Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, US Retained world lightweight title
192 Win 143–8–16 (25) Jimmy Britt TKO 6 (20) Sep 9, 1907 Recreation Park, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
191 Win 142–8–16 (25) Kid Herman KO 8 (?) Jan 1, 1907 Casino A.C. Arena, Tonopah, California, US Retained world lightweight title
190 Win 141–8–16 (25) Battling Nelson DQ 42 () Sep 3, 1906 Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, US Retained world lightweight title;
A fight to the finish
189 Win 140–8–16 (25) Dave Holly PTS 20 Jul 23, 1906 Pleasant Beach, Bainbridge Island, Washington, US Retained world lightweight title
188 Win 139–8–16 (25) Jack Blackburn NWS 6 Jun 29, 1906 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
187 Draw 139–8–16 (24) Harry Lewis NWS 6 Jun 15, 1906 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
186 Loss 139–8–16 (23) Willie Lewis NWS 6 May 18, 1906 Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, US
185 Win 139–8–16 (22) Mike "Twin" Sullivan TKO 10 (20) Mar 17, 1906 Chutes Park, Los Angeles, California, US Retained world welterweight title claim at 142 lbs;
Police stopped the fight
184 Win 138–8–16 (22) Mike 'Twin' Sullivan KO 15 (20), 1:15 Jan 19, 1906 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Gans claims world welterweight title at 142lbs
183 Draw 137–8–16 (22) Mike 'Twin' Sullivan PTS 15 Sep 15, 1905 Lyric Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Retained world lightweight title;
Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance
182 Win 137–8–15 (22) Rufe Turner NWS 6 Mar 27, 1905 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
181 Win 137–8–15 (21) Jimmy Britt DQ 5 (20), 0:30 Oct 31, 1904 Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title;
Britt DQ'd for hitting Gans while he was rising from a knockdown
180 Draw 136–8–15 (21) Barbados Joe Walcott PTS 20 Sep 30, 1904 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
179 Draw 136–8–14 (21) Dave Holly NWS 6 Jun 27, 1904 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
178 Win 136–8–14 (20) Sammy Smith TKO 4 (6) Jun 13, 1904 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
177 Win 135–8–14 (20) Kid Griffo TKO 7 (15) Jun 3, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
176 Win 134–8–14 (20) Jewey Cook RTD 7 (10) May 27, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
175 Win 133–8–14 (20) Sam Bolen PTS 15 Apr 21, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
174 Win 132–8–14 (20) Gus Gardner PTS 10 Mar 28, 1904 Arbelten Hall, Saginaw, Michigan, US
173 Win 131–8–14 (20) Jack Blackburn PTS 15 Mar 25, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
172 Win 130–8–14 (20) Mike Ward TKO 10 (10) Feb 2, 1904 Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US
171 Win 129–8–14 (20) Joe Grim PTS 10 Jan 22, 1904 Shlegel's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
170 Win 128–8–14 (20) Clarence Connors TKO 2 (6) Jan 19, 1904 Mount Clemens, Michigan, US
169 Win 127–8–14 (20) Willie Fitzgerald PTS 10 Jan 12, 1904 Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US Retained world lightweight title
168 Loss 126–8–14 (20) Sam Langford PTS 15 Dec 8, 1903 Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US
167 Win 126–7–14 (20) Dave Holly NWS 6 Dec 7, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
166 Loss 126–7–14 (19) Jack Blackburn NWS 6 Nov 2, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
165 Draw 126–7–14 (18) Dave Holly NWS 6 Oct 23, 1903 State A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
164 Win 126–7–14 (17) Eddie Kennedy NWS 6 Oct 20, 1903 Southern A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
163 Win 126–7–14 (16) Joe Grim NWS 6 Oct 19, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
162 Win 126–7–14 (15) Buddy King KO 5 (20) Jul 4, 1903 Old Baseball Park, Butte, Montana, US
161 Win 125–7–14 (15) Willie Fitzgerald KO 10 (20) May 29, 1903 Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
160 Win 124–7–14 (15) Tom Tracey TKO 9 (20) May 13, 1903 Pastime A.C., Portland, Oregon, US
159 Win 123–7–14 (15) Jack Bennett KO 5 (10) Mar 23, 1903 Masonic Hall, Allegheny, Pennsylvania, US
158 Win 122–7–14 (15) Steve Crosby TKO 11 (20) Mar 11, 1903 Whittington Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas, US Retained world lightweight title
157 Win 121–7–14 (15) Gus Gardner DQ 11 (20), 1:05 Jan 1, 1903 Casino, New Britain, Connecticut, US Retained world lightweight title
156 Draw 120–7–14 (15) Charley Siegar PTS 10 Dec 31, 1902 Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance.
155 Win 120–7–13 (15) Howard Wilson TKO 3 (20) Dec 19, 1902 Scituate Athletic Club, Scituate, Rhode Island, US
154 Win 119–7–13 (15) Charley Siegar TKO 14 (20) Nov 14, 1902 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Retained world lightweight title
153 Win 118–7–13 (15) Dave Holly NWS 10 Oct 14, 1902 Maennerchor Hall, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, US
152 Win 118–7–13 (14) Kid McPartland KO 5 (20), 2:25 Oct 13, 1902 International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada Retained world lightweight title
151 Win 117–7–13 (14) Jack Bennett KO 2 (6) Sep 22, 1902 Golden Gate A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
150 Win 116–7–13 (14) Gus Gardner KO 5 (20) Sep 17, 1902 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
149 Win 115–7–13 (14) Rufe Turner KO 15 (15) Jul 24, 1902 Acme A.C., Oakland, California, US Retained world lightweight title
148 Win 114–7–13 (14) George 'Elbows' McFadden TKO 3 (20) Jun 27, 1902 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
147 Win 113–7–13 (14) St. Mary's County Bully DQ 3 (4) May 29, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
146 Win 112–7–13 (14) Charles Boyer TKO 2 (4) May 28, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
145 Win 111–7–13 (14) Edward Snowden KO 2 (4) May 28, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
144 Win 110–7–13 (14) Joe Burke RTD 2 (4) May 27, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
143 Win 109–7–13 (14) Frank Erne KO 1 (20), 1:40 May 12, 1902 International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada Won world lightweight title
142 Win 108–7–13 (14) Jack Bennett KO 5 (20) Mar 27, 1902 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
141 Win 107–7–13 (14) Jack Ryan TKO 4 (15) Mar 7, 1902 Keystone A.C., Allentown, Pennsylvania, US
140 Win 106–7–13 (14) George 'Elbows' McFadden NWS 6 Feb 17, 1902 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
139 Win 106–7–13 (13) Eddie Connolly DQ 5 (6) Jan 6, 1902 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Connolly DQ'd for head-butting Gans multiple times under the chin
138 Win 105–7–13 (13) Tom Broderick KO 6 (20) Jan 3, 1902 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
137 Win 104–7–13 (13) Joe Youngs TKO 4 (6) Dec 30, 1901 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Youngs quit in the middle of the round, with both of his eyes almost closed
136 Win 103–7–13 (13) Bobby Dobbs TKO 14 (20) Dec 13, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
135 Win 102–7–13 (13) Billy Moore KO 3 (20) Nov 22, 1901 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
134 Win 101–7–13 (13) Jack Hanlon KO 2 (20) Nov 15, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
133 Win 100–7–13 (13) Dan McConnell KO 3 (8) Oct 4, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
132 Win 99–7–13 (13) Joe Handler TKO 1 (20) Sep 30, 1901 Trenton A.C., Trenton, New Jersey, US
131 Win 98–7–13 (13) Steve Crosby TKO 12 (20) Sep 20, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight
130 Draw 97–7–13 (13) Steve Crosby PTS 20 Aug 23, 1901 Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US Retained world colored lightweight title
129 Win 97–7–12 (13) Kid Thomas NWS 6 Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in one day
128 Win 97–7–12 (12) Jack Donahue TKO 2 (6) Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
127 Win 96–7–12 (12) Harry Berger NWS 6 Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
126 Win 96–7–12 (11) Bobby Dobbs KO 7 (20) May 31, 1901 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
125 Win 95–7–12 (11) Martin Flaherty TKO 4 (20) Apr 1, 1901 Ford's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
124 Win 94–7–12 (11) Wilmington Jack Daly DQ 5 (20), 2:05 Feb 13, 1901 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
123 Loss 93–7–12 (11) Terry McGovern KO 2 (6), 2:05 Dec 13, 1900 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
122 Win 93–6–12 (11) Kid Parker KO 4 (10) Nov 16, 1900 Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
121 Win 92–6–12 (11) Jimmy 'Spider' Kelly TKO 8 (10) Oct 19, 1900 Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
120 Win 91–6–12 (11) Otto Sieloff KO 9 (10) Oct 16, 1900 Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
119 Win 90–6–12 (11) Alec Johnson KO 1 (5), 2:23 Oct 11, 1900 Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
118 Win 89–6–12 (11) Bird Leg Collins TKO 4 (5) Oct 11, 1900 Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
117 Win 88–6–12 (11) Joe Youngs PTS 10 Oct 5, 1900 Colorado A.A., Denver, Colorado, US
116 Draw 87–6–12 (11) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 10 Oct 2, 1900 Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
115 Win 87–6–11 (11) George 'Elbows' McFadden NWS 6 Sep 7, 1900 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
114 Win 87–6–11 (10) Dal Hawkins KO 3 (25) Aug 31, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US Time was either 2:21 or 2:57
113 Win 86–6–11 (10) Whitey Lester KO 4 (20) Jul 12, 1900 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
112 Win 85–6–11 (10) Young Griffo TKO 8 (25), 1:38 Jul 10, 1900 Seaside A.C., Coney Island, New York, US
111 Win 84–6–11 (10) Barney Furey KO 9 (15) Jun 26, 1900 People's Theater, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
110 Win 83–6–11 (10) Dal Hawkins KO 2 (25), 1:15 May 25, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
109 Win 82–6–11 (10) Chicago Jack Daly TKO 5 (6) Apr 1, 1900 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
108 Loss 81–6–11 (10) Frank Erne TKO 12 (25) Mar 23, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US For world lightweight title;
Gans asked to have the bout stopped after being cut by an accidental head-butt.
107 Win 81–5–11 (10) Spike Sullivan TKO 14 (25), 2:17 Feb 9, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
106 Draw 80–5–11 (10) Kid McPartland PTS 6 Dec 22, 1899 Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
105 Win 80–5–10 (10) Kid Ash PTS 15 Dec 11, 1899 Robinson Opera House, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
104 Win 79–5–10 (10) Steve Crosby PTS 6 Nov 24, 1899 Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
103 Win 78–5–10 (10) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 25 Oct 31, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
102 Win 77–5–10 (10) Martin Judge PTS 20 Oct 11, 1899 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
101 Draw 76–5–10 (10) Wilmington Jack Daly NWS 6 Oct 7, 1899 Nonpareil A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
100 Win 76–5–10 (9) Jimmy 'Spider' Kelly PTS 25 Oct 3, 1899 Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
99 Win 75–5–10 (9) Martin Judge PTS 12 (20) Sep 15, 1899 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight at the end of the 12th round
on account of foul work in the clinches.
98 Win 74–5–10 (9) Eugene Bezenah KO 10 (25), 2:23 Sep 1, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
97 Draw 73–5–10 (9) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 25 Jul 28, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
96 Win 73–5–9 (9) Jack Dobbs TKO 4 (25) Jul 24, 1899 Seabright Casino, Ocean City, Maryland, US
95 Loss 72–5–9 (9) George 'Elbows' McFadden KO 23 (25) Apr 14, 1899 Broadway A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, New York, US
94 Win 72–4–9 (9) Billy Ernst DQ 10 (20) Feb 6, 1899 Olympic A.C., Buffalo, New York, US Ernst DQ'd for headbutting Gans
93 Win 71–4–9 (9) Martin Judge PTS 20 Jan 28, 1899 Crescent A.C., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
92 Win 70–4–9 (9) Young Smyrna KO 2 (25), 2:50 Jan 13, 1899 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
91 Win 69–4–9 (9) Wilmington Jack Daly PTS 25 Dec 27, 1898 Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
90 Win 68–4–9 (9) Kid McPartland PTS 25 Nov 4, 1898 Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
89 Win 67–4–9 (9) William Duke PTS 4 Sep 30, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
88 Win 66–4–9 (9) Fred Sweigert PTS 4 Sep 29, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
87 Win 65–4–9 (9) James Martin TKO 4 (4) Sep 28, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
86 Win 64–4–9 (9) Joseph Smith TKO 1 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in one day
85 Win 63–4–9 (9) William Hinton TKO 1 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
84 Win 62–4–9 (9) Buck Baynor TKO 3 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
83 Win 61–4–9 (9) Herman Miller PTS 4 Sep 26, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
82 Win 60–4–9 (9) Thomas Jackson KO 3 (25), 1:32 Sep 1, 1898 Talbot county fair, Easton, Maryland, US
81 Win 59–4–9 (9) Young Smyrna TKO 15 (25), 2:23 Aug 26, 1898 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
80 Win 58–4–9 (9) Billy Ernst KO 11 (25) Aug 8, 1898 Greater New York A.C., New York City, New York, US
79 Win 57–4–9 (9) George Brown TKO 6 (10) Jul 1, 1898 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
78 Win 56–4–9 (9) Joe Kid Robinson PTS 6 Jun 3, 1898 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
77 NC 55–4–9 (9) Joe Kid Robinson NC 3 (6) Jun 2, 1898 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US The lights went out in the building, and the show had to be called off until next day.
76 Win 55–4–9 (8) Steve Crosby RTD 6 (20) May 11, 1898 Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US
75 Win 54–4–9 (8) Young Starlight TKO 3 (3) Apr 11, 1898 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in a day
74 Win 53–4–9 (8) Young Smyrna TKO 3 (3) Apr 11, 1898 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight.
73 Win 52–4–9 (8) Tommy Shortell TKO 6 (8) Mar 11, 1898 Academy Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
72 Win 51–4–9 (8) Frank Garrard TKO 15 (20) Jan 17, 1898 Central Armory, Cleveland, Ohio, US
71 Win 50–4–9 (9) Billy Young TKO 2 (8) Jan 3, 1898 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
70 Win 49–4–9 (8) Stanton Abbott TKO 5 (8), 2:15 Nov 29, 1897 Academy of Music, Baltimore, Maryland, US
69 Draw 48–4–9 (8) Wilmington Jack Daly NWS 6 Nov 6, 1897 Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
68 Loss 48–4–9 (7) Bobby Dobbs PTS 20 Sep 27, 1897 Greenpoint S.C., New York City, New York, US For world colored lightweight title
67 Draw 48–3–9 (7) Young Griffo PTS 15 Sep 21, 1897 Olympic A.C., Athens, Pennsylvania, US
66 Win 48–3–8 (7) Izzy Strauss KO 5 (15) Aug 30, 1897 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
65 Win 47–3–8 (7) Jack McCue TKO 6 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Fifth fight in a day
64 Win 46–3–8 (7) John Coates TKO 5 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Fourth fight in a day
63 Win 45–3–8 (7) Jerry Marshall TKO 8 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in a day
62 Win 44–3–8 (7) George Thomas TKO 3 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in a day
61 Win 43–3–8 (7) August Stenzie TKO 3 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US
60 Win 42–3–8 (7) Mike Leonard PTS 20 May 18, 1897 Olympic A.C., San Francisco, California, US
59 Win 41–3–8 (7) Howard Wilson KO 9 (20) Apr 3, 1897 Polo A.C., New York City, New York, US
58 Win 40–3–8 (7) Charles Rochette RTD 4 (10) Dec 14, 1896 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
57 Win 39–3–8 (7) Jerry Marshall PTS 20 Nov 12, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
56 Win 38–3–8 (7) Jack Williams TKO 3 (8) Oct 19, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight.
55 Loss 37–3–8 (7) Dal Hawkins PTS 15 Oct 6, 1896 Bohemian Sporting Club, New York City, New York, US
54 Win 37–2–8 (7) John Ball PTS 4 Sep 28, 1896 East Side A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
53 Draw 36–2–8 (7) Danny McBride PTS 20 Aug 31, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
52 Win 36–2–7 (7) Jack Williams TKO 2 (?) Aug 20, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
51 Win 35–2–7 (7) Tommy Butler PTS 12 Jun 29, 1896 South Brooklyn A.C., New York City, New York, US
50 Win 34–2–7 (7) Jimmy Watson PTS 10 Jun 8, 1896 Bijou Theater, Paterson, New Jersey, US
49 Win 33–2–7 (7) Jimmy Kennard TKO 6 (12) Feb 22, 1896 West Newton Street Armory, Boston, Massachusetts, US
48 Win 32–2–7 (7) Joe Elliott KO 7 (8) Jan 17, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
47 Win 31–2–7 (7) Benny Peterson PTS 4 Jan 11, 1896 Ariel A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
46 Win 30–2–7 (7) George Siddons KO 7 (25), 2:50 Nov 28, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
45 Draw 29–2–7 (7) Young Griffo PTS 10 Nov 18, 1895 Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Pre-arranged draw if lasting full distance.
44 Win 29–2–6 (7) Joe Elliott KO 9 (25) Oct 21, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
43 Draw 28–2–6 (7) George Siddons PTS 20 Jul 15, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
42 Win 28–2–5 (7) Howard Wilson PTS 10 May 28, 1895 Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
41 Win 27–2–5 (7) Benny Peterson KO 17 (20) May 20, 1895 Riverside Athletic Club, New York City, New York, US
40 Win 26–2–5 (7) George Willis KO 4 (10) May 14, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
39 Draw 25–2–5 (7) Howard Wilson PTS 6 May 9, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
38 Win 25–2–4 (7) Frank Peabody TKO 3 (8) May 4, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
37 Win 24–2–4 (7) Kentucky Rosebud TKO 8 (8) Apr 25, 1895 Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
36 Win 23–2–4 (7) David Armstrong TKO 3 (6) Apr 18, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
35 Loss 22–2–4 (7) Johnny Van Heest PTS 9 (8) Apr 13, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Gans had Van Heese whipped to a standstill in the eighth round,
but Mr. Daniel Carr, the referee, ordered an extra round.
Though Van Heest had none the best of the last round, he was given the decision.
34 Win 22–1–4 (7) Kentucky Rosebud NWS 6 Apr 1, 1895 Monumental Amphitheater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
33 Win 22–1–4 (6) Paul Johnson PTS 6 Mar 22, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
32 Win 21–1–4 (6) Harry Hunt TKO 4 (?) Mar 20, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
31 Draw 20–1–4 (6) Howard Wilson PTS 10 Mar 18, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
30 Draw 20–1–3 (6) Fred Sweigert PTS 10 Mar 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
29 Win 20–1–2 (6) Solomon English TKO 10 (10) Mar 6, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police interfered.
28 Win 19–1–2 (6) Max Wirsing TKO 3 (?) Mar 4, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
27 Draw 18–1–2 (6) James Daly PTS 11 (10) Feb 16, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US An extra-round was fought.
26 Win 18–1–1 (6) James Davis KO 3 (10) Feb 12, 1895 Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
25 Win 17–1–1 (6) John Ball PTS 6 Feb 12, 1895 Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
24 Win 16–1–1 (6) John Coates PTS 11 (10) Feb 11, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US An additional round was fought to decide the winner.
23 Win 15–1–1 (6) Samuel Young KO 3 (?) Feb 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
22 Win 14–1–1 (6) Fred Sweigert PTS 10 Feb 6, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
21 Draw 13–1–1 (6) Dave Horn PTS 10 Jan 23, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
20 Win 13–1 (6) George Brummell TKO 5 (?) Jan 19, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
19 Win 12–1 (6) Paul Johnson PTS 10 Jan 11, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
18 Win 11–1 (6) Bud Brown PTS 10 Jan 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day after Allen's corner man offered to fight Gans
17 Win 10–1 (6) Samuel Allen KO 3 (?) Jan 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
16 Win 9–1 (6) Fred Sweigert PTS ? Jan 1, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
15 Win 8–1 (6) Jack McDonald TKO 8 (?) Dec 28, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
14 Win 7–1 (6) John Coates PTS 10 Dec 27, 1894 Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
13 Win 6–1 (6) Fred Sweigert NWS 10 Dec 21, 1894 Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
12 Win 6–1 (5) Travis Brown PTS 6 Dec 17, 1894 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
11 ND 5–1 (5) Bud Young ND 4 Nov 27, 1894 Canton Academy, Baltimore, Maryland, US
10 ND 5–1 (4) Paul Johnson ND 3 (?) Nov 12, 1894 Grand Army Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Gans was fouled and could not continue. Ruled a no decision
9 Win 5–1 (3) Jackson TKO 3 (4) Jul 10, 1894 Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
8 Loss 4–1 (3) Paul Johnson PTS 5 Jun 27, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US For vacant Maryland colored lightweight title
7 Win 4–0 (3) Gustav Wilkie PTS 4 Jun 26, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
6 ND 3–0 (3) Robert Cook ND ? May 21, 1894 M F Conklin`s Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
5 Win 3–0 (2) Harry Brian PTS ? Apr 25, 1894 Allerino Gannic Casino, Baltimore, Maryland, US
4 ND 2–0 (2) Dave Horn ND 3 (?) Apr 19, 1894 Beach's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
3 Win 2–0 (1) William Jones KO 4 (?) Feb 12, 1894 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
2 Win 1–0 (1) William Jones RTD 6 (?) Nov 27, 1893 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
1 ND 0–0 (1) Buck Myers ND ? Oct 23, 1893 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US

Unofficial record

199 fights 160 wins 12 losses
By knockout 101 5
By decision 52 7
By disqualification 7 0
Draws 21
No contests 6

Record with the inclusion of newspaper decisions in the win/loss/draw column.

No. Result Record Opponent Type Round, time Date Location Notes
199 Win 160–12–21 (6) Jabez White NWS 10 Mar 12, 1909 National S.C., New York City, New York, US
198 Loss 159–12–21 (6) Battling Nelson KO 21 (45) Sep 9, 1908 Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, US For world lightweight title
197 Loss 159–11–21 (6) Battling Nelson KO 17 (45) Jul 4, 1908 Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, US Lost world lightweight title
196 Win 159–10–21 (6) Rudy Unholz TKO 11 (20) May 14, 1908 Coliseum, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
195 Win 158–10–21 (6) Frank 'Spike' Robson TKO 3 (6), 2:25 Apr 1, 1908 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
194 Win 157–10–21 (6) Bob Blackburn KO 3 (5) Jan 3, 1908 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
193 Win 156–10–21 (6) George Memsic PTS 20 Sep 27, 1907 Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, US Retained world lightweight title
192 Win 155–10–21 (6) Jimmy Britt TKO 6 (20) Sep 9, 1907 Recreation Park, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
191 Win 154–10–21 (6) Kid Herman KO 8 (?) Jan 1, 1907 Casino A.C. Arena, Tonopah, California, US Retained world lightweight title
190 Win 153–10–21 (6) Battling Nelson DQ 42 () Sep 3, 1906 Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, US Retained world lightweight title;
A fight to the finish
189 Win 152–10–21 (6) Dave Holly PTS 20 Jul 23, 1906 Pleasant Beach, Bainbridge Island, Washington, US Retained world lightweight title
188 Win 151–10–21 (6) Jack Blackburn NWS 6 Jun 29, 1906 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
187 Draw 150–10–21 (6) Harry Lewis NWS 6 Jun 15, 1906 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
186 Loss 150–10–20 (6) Willie Lewis NWS 6 May 18, 1906 Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, US
185 Win 150–9–20 (6) Mike "Twin" Sullivan TKO 10 (20) Mar 17, 1906 Chutes Park, Los Angeles, California, US Retained world welterweight title claim at 142 lbs;
Police stopped the fight
184 Win 149–9–20 (6) Mike 'Twin' Sullivan KO 15 (20), 1:15 Jan 19, 1906 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Gans claims world welterweight title at 142lbs
183 Draw 148–9–20 (6) Mike 'Twin' Sullivan PTS 15 Sep 15, 1905 Lyric Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Retained world lightweight title;
Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance
182 Win 148–9–19 (6) Rufe Turner NWS 6 Mar 27, 1905 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
181 Win 147–9–19 (6) Jimmy Britt DQ 5 (20), 0:30 Oct 31, 1904 Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title;
Britt DQ'd for hitting Gans while he was rising from a knockdown
180 Draw 146–9–19 (6) Barbados Joe Walcott PTS 20 Sep 30, 1904 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
179 Draw 146–9–18 (6) Dave Holly NWS 6 Jun 27, 1904 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
178 Win 146–9–17 (6) Sammy Smith TKO 4 (6) Jun 13, 1904 National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
177 Win 145–9–17 (6) Kid Griffo TKO 7 (15) Jun 3, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
176 Win 144–9–17 (6) Jewey Cook RTD 7 (10) May 27, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
175 Win 143–9–17 (6) Sam Bolen PTS 15 Apr 21, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
174 Win 142–9–17 (6) Gus Gardner PTS 10 Mar 28, 1904 Arbelten Hall, Saginaw, Michigan, US
173 Win 141–9–17 (6) Jack Blackburn PTS 15 Mar 25, 1904 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
172 Win 140–9–17 (6) Mike Ward TKO 10 (10) Feb 2, 1904 Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US
171 Win 139–9–17 (6) Joe Grim PTS 10 Jan 22, 1904 Shlegel's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
170 Win 138–9–17 (6) Clarence Connors TKO 2 (6) Jan 19, 1904 Mount Clemens, Michigan, US
169 Win 137–9–17 (6) Willie Fitzgerald PTS 10 Jan 12, 1904 Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US Retained world lightweight title
168 Loss 136–9–17 (6) Sam Langford PTS 15 Dec 8, 1903 Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US
167 Win 136–8–17 (6) Dave Holly NWS 6 Dec 7, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
166 Loss 135–8–17 (6) Jack Blackburn NWS 6 Nov 2, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
165 Draw 135–7–17 (6) Dave Holly NWS 6 Oct 23, 1903 State A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
164 Win 135–7–16 (6) Eddie Kennedy NWS 6 Oct 20, 1903 Southern A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
163 Win 134–7–16 (6) Joe Grim NWS 6 Oct 19, 1903 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
162 Win 133–7–16 (6) Buddy King KO 5 (20) Jul 4, 1903 Old Baseball Park, Butte, Montana, US
161 Win 132–7–16 (6) Willie Fitzgerald KO 10 (20) May 29, 1903 Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
160 Win 131–7–16 (6) Tom Tracey TKO 9 (20) May 13, 1903 Pastime A.C., Portland, Oregon, US
159 Win 130–7–16 (6) Jack Bennett KO 5 (10) Mar 23, 1903 Masonic Hall, Allegheny, Pennsylvania, US
158 Win 129–7–16 (6) Steve Crosby TKO 11 (20) Mar 11, 1903 Whittington Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas, US Retained world lightweight title
157 Win 128–7–16 (6) Gus Gardner DQ 11 (20), 1:05 Jan 1, 1903 Casino, New Britain, Connecticut, US Retained world lightweight title
156 Draw 127–7–16 (6) Charley Siegar PTS 10 Dec 31, 1902 Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance.
155 Win 127–7–15 (6) Howard Wilson TKO 3 (20) Dec 19, 1902 Scituate Athletic Club, Scituate, Rhode Island, US
154 Win 126–7–15 (6) Charley Siegar TKO 14 (20) Nov 14, 1902 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Retained world lightweight title
153 Win 125–7–15 (6) Dave Holly NWS 10 Oct 14, 1902 Maennerchor Hall, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, US
152 Win 124–7–15 (6) Kid McPartland KO 5 (20), 2:25 Oct 13, 1902 International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada Retained world lightweight title
151 Win 123–7–15 (6) Jack Bennett KO 2 (6) Sep 22, 1902 Golden Gate A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
150 Win 122–7–15 (6) Gus Gardner KO 5 (20) Sep 17, 1902 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
149 Win 121–7–15 (6) Rufe Turner KO 15 (15) Jul 24, 1902 Acme A.C., Oakland, California, US Retained world lightweight title
148 Win 120–7–15 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden TKO 3 (20) Jun 27, 1902 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US Retained world lightweight title
147 Win 119–7–15 (6) St. Mary's County Bully DQ 3 (4) May 29, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
146 Win 118–7–15 (6) Charles Boyer TKO 2 (4) May 28, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
145 Win 117–7–15 (6) Edward Snowden KO 2 (4) May 28, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
144 Win 116–7–15 (6) Joe Burke RTD 2 (4) May 27, 1902 Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
143 Win 115–7–15 (6) Frank Erne KO 1 (20), 1:40 May 12, 1902 International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, Canada Won world lightweight title
142 Win 114–7–15 (6) Jack Bennett KO 5 (20) Mar 27, 1902 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
141 Win 113–7–15 (6) Jack Ryan TKO 4 (15) Mar 7, 1902 Keystone A.C., Allentown, Pennsylvania, US
140 Win 112–7–15 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden NWS 6 Feb 17, 1902 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
139 Win 111–7–15 (6) Eddie Connolly DQ 5 (6) Jan 6, 1902 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Connolly DQ'd for head-butting Gans multiple times under the chin
138 Win 110–7–15 (6) Tom Broderick KO 6 (20) Jan 3, 1902 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
137 Win 109–7–15 (6) Joe Youngs TKO 4 (6) Dec 30, 1901 Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US Youngs quit in the middle of the round, with both of his eyes almost closed
136 Win 108–7–15 (6) Bobby Dobbs TKO 14 (20) Dec 13, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
135 Win 107–7–15 (6) Billy Moore KO 3 (20) Nov 22, 1901 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
134 Win 106–7–15 (6) Jack Hanlon KO 2 (20) Nov 15, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
133 Win 105–7–15 (6) Dan McConnell KO 3 (8) Oct 4, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
132 Win 104–7–15 (6) Joe Handler TKO 1 (20) Sep 30, 1901 Trenton A.C., Trenton, New Jersey, US
131 Win 103–7–15 (6) Steve Crosby TKO 12 (20) Sep 20, 1901 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight
130 Draw 102–7–15 (6) Steve Crosby PTS 20 Aug 23, 1901 Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US Retained world colored lightweight title
129 Win 102–7–14 (6) Kid Thomas NWS 6 Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in one day
128 Win 101–7–14 (6) Jack Donahue TKO 2 (6) Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
127 Win 100–7–14 (6) Harry Berger NWS 6 Jul 15, 1901 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
126 Win 99–7–14 (6) Bobby Dobbs KO 7 (20) May 31, 1901 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
125 Win 98–7–14 (6) Martin Flaherty TKO 4 (20) Apr 1, 1901 Ford's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
124 Win 97–7–14 (6) Wilmington Jack Daly DQ 5 (20), 2:05 Feb 13, 1901 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
123 Loss 96–7–14 (6) Terry McGovern KO 2 (6), 2:05 Dec 13, 1900 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
122 Win 96–6–14 (6) Kid Parker KO 4 (10) Nov 16, 1900 Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
121 Win 95–6–14 (6) Jimmy 'Spider' Kelly TKO 8 (10) Oct 19, 1900 Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
120 Win 94–6–14 (6) Otto Sieloff KO 9 (10) Oct 16, 1900 Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
119 Win 93–6–14 (6) Alec Johnson KO 1 (5), 2:23 Oct 11, 1900 Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
118 Win 92–6–14 (6) Bird Leg Collins TKO 4 (5) Oct 11, 1900 Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
117 Win 91–6–14 (6) Joe Youngs PTS 10 Oct 5, 1900 Colorado A.A., Denver, Colorado, US
116 Draw 90–6–14 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 10 Oct 2, 1900 Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
115 Win 90–6–13 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden NWS 6 Sep 7, 1900 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
114 Win 89–6–13 (6) Dal Hawkins KO 3 (25) Aug 31, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US Time was either 2:21 or 2:57
113 Win 88–6–13 (6) Whitey Lester KO 4 (20) Jul 12, 1900 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
112 Win 87–6–13 (6) Young Griffo TKO 8 (25), 1:38 Jul 10, 1900 Seaside A.C., Coney Island, New York, US
111 Win 86–6–13 (6) Barney Furey KO 9 (15) Jun 26, 1900 People's Theater, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
110 Win 85–6–13 (6) Dal Hawkins KO 2 (25), 1:15 May 25, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
109 Win 84–6–13 (6) Chicago Jack Daly TKO 5 (6) Apr 1, 1900 Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
108 Loss 83–6–13 (6) Frank Erne TKO 12 (25) Mar 23, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US For world lightweight title;
Gans asked to have the bout stopped after being cut by an accidental head-butt.
107 Win 83–5–13 (6) Spike Sullivan TKO 14 (25), 2:17 Feb 9, 1900 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
106 Draw 82–5–13 (6) Kid McPartland PTS 6 Dec 22, 1899 Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
105 Win 82–5–12 (6) Kid Ash PTS 15 Dec 11, 1899 Robinson Opera House, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
104 Win 81–5–12 (6) Steve Crosby PTS 6 Nov 24, 1899 Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
103 Win 80–5–12 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 25 Oct 31, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
102 Win 79–5–12 (6) Martin Judge PTS 20 Oct 11, 1899 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
101 Draw 78–5–12 (6) Wilmington Jack Daly NWS 6 Oct 7, 1899 Nonpareil A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
100 Win 78–5–11 (6) Jimmy 'Spider' Kelly PTS 25 Oct 3, 1899 Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
99 Win 77–5–11 (6) Martin Judge PTS 12 (20) Sep 15, 1899 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight at the end of the 12th round
on account of foul work in the clinches.
98 Win 76–5–11 (6) Eugene Bezenah KO 10 (25), 2:23 Sep 1, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
97 Draw 75–5–11 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden PTS 25 Jul 28, 1899 Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
96 Win 75–5–10 (6) Jack Dobbs TKO 4 (25) Jul 24, 1899 Seabright Casino, Ocean City, Maryland, US
95 Loss 74–5–10 (6) George 'Elbows' McFadden KO 23 (25) Apr 14, 1899 Broadway A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, New York, US
94 Win 74–4–10 (6) Billy Ernst DQ 10 (20) Feb 6, 1899 Olympic A.C., Buffalo, New York, US Ernst DQ'd for headbutting Gans
93 Win 73–4–10 (6) Martin Judge PTS 20 Jan 28, 1899 Crescent A.C., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
92 Win 72–4–10 (6) Young Smyrna KO 2 (25), 2:50 Jan 13, 1899 Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
91 Win 71–4–10 (6) Wilmington Jack Daly PTS 25 Dec 27, 1898 Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
90 Win 70–4–10 (6) Kid McPartland PTS 25 Nov 4, 1898 Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
89 Win 69–4–10 (6) William Duke PTS 4 Sep 30, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
88 Win 68–4–10 (6) Fred Sweigert PTS 4 Sep 29, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
87 Win 67–4–10 (6) James Martin TKO 4 (4) Sep 28, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
86 Win 66–4–10 (6) Joseph Smith TKO 1 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in one day
85 Win 65–4–10 (6) William Hinton TKO 1 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
84 Win 64–4–10 (6) Buck Baynor TKO 3 (4) Sep 27, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
83 Win 63–4–10 (6) Herman Miller PTS 4 Sep 26, 1898 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
82 Win 62–4–10 (6) Thomas Jackson KO 3 (25), 1:32 Sep 1, 1898 Talbot county fair, Easton, Maryland, US
81 Win 61–4–10 (6) Young Smyrna TKO 15 (25), 2:23 Aug 26, 1898 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
80 Win 60–4–10 (6) Billy Ernst KO 11 (25) Aug 8, 1898 Greater New York A.C., New York City, New York, US
79 Win 59–4–10 (6) George Brown TKO 6 (10) Jul 1, 1898 Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
78 Win 58–4–10 (6) Joe Kid Robinson PTS 6 Jun 3, 1898 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
77 NC 57–4–10 (6) Joe Kid Robinson NC 3 (6) Jun 2, 1898 Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US The lights went out in the building, and the show had to be called off until next day.
76 Win 57–4–10 (5) Steve Crosby RTD 6 (20) May 11, 1898 Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US
75 Win 56–4–10 (5) Young Starlight TKO 3 (3) Apr 11, 1898 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in a day
74 Win 55–4–10 (5) Young Smyrna TKO 3 (3) Apr 11, 1898 Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight.
73 Win 54–4–10 (5) Tommy Shortell TKO 6 (8) Mar 11, 1898 Academy Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
72 Win 53–4–10 (5) Frank Garrard TKO 15 (20) Jan 17, 1898 Central Armory, Cleveland, Ohio, US
71 Win 52–4–10 (5) Billy Young TKO 2 (8) Jan 3, 1898 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
70 Win 51–4–10 (5) Stanton Abbott TKO 5 (8), 2:15 Nov 29, 1897 Academy of Music, Baltimore, Maryland, US
69 Draw 50–4–10 (5) Wilmington Jack Daly NWS 6 Nov 6, 1897 Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
68 Loss 50–4–9 (5) Bobby Dobbs PTS 20 Sep 27, 1897 Greenpoint S.C., New York City, New York, US For world colored lightweight title
67 Draw 50–3–9 (5) Young Griffo PTS 15 Sep 21, 1897 Olympic A.C., Athens, Pennsylvania, US
66 Win 50–3–8 (5) Izzy Strauss KO 5 (15) Aug 30, 1897 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
65 Win 49–3–8 (5) Jack McCue TKO 6 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Fifth fight in a day
64 Win 48–3–8 (5) John Coates TKO 5 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Fourth fight in a day
63 Win 47–3–8 (5) Jerry Marshall TKO 8 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Third fight in a day
62 Win 46–3–8 (5) George Thomas TKO 3 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in a day
61 Win 45–3–8 (5) August Stenzie TKO 3 (?) Aug 24, 1897 Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US
60 Win 44–3–8 (5) Mike Leonard PTS 20 May 18, 1897 Olympic A.C., San Francisco, California, US
59 Win 43–3–8 (5) Howard Wilson KO 9 (20) Apr 3, 1897 Polo A.C., New York City, New York, US
58 Win 42–3–8 (5) Charles Rochette RTD 4 (10) Dec 14, 1896 Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
57 Win 41–3–8 (5) Jerry Marshall PTS 20 Nov 12, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
56 Win 40–3–8 (5) Jack Williams TKO 3 (8) Oct 19, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police stopped the fight.
55 Loss 39–3–8 (5) Dal Hawkins PTS 15 Oct 6, 1896 Bohemian Sporting Club, New York City, New York, US
54 Win 39–2–8 (5) John Ball PTS 4 Sep 28, 1896 East Side A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
53 Draw 38–2–8 (5) Danny McBride PTS 20 Aug 31, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
52 Win 38–2–7 (5) Jack Williams TKO 2 (?) Aug 20, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
51 Win 37–2–7 (5) Tommy Butler PTS 12 Jun 29, 1896 South Brooklyn A.C., New York City, New York, US
50 Win 36–2–7 (5) Jimmy Watson PTS 10 Jun 8, 1896 Bijou Theater, Paterson, New Jersey, US
49 Win 35–2–7 (5) Jimmy Kennard TKO 6 (12) Feb 22, 1896 West Newton Street Armory, Boston, Massachusetts, US
48 Win 34–2–7 (5) Joe Elliott KO 7 (8) Jan 17, 1896 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
47 Win 33–2–7 (5) Benny Peterson PTS 4 Jan 11, 1896 Ariel A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
46 Win 32–2–7 (5) George Siddons KO 7 (25), 2:50 Nov 28, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
45 Draw 31–2–7 (5) Young Griffo PTS 10 Nov 18, 1895 Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Pre-arranged draw if lasting full distance.
44 Win 31–2–6 (5) Joe Elliott KO 9 (25) Oct 21, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
43 Draw 30–2–6 (5) George Siddons PTS 20 Jul 15, 1895 Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
42 Win 30–2–5 (5) Howard Wilson PTS 10 May 28, 1895 Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
41 Win 29–2–5 (5) Benny Peterson KO 17 (20) May 20, 1895 Riverside Athletic Club, New York City, New York, US
40 Win 28–2–5 (5) George Willis KO 4 (10) May 14, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
39 Draw 27–2–5 (5) Howard Wilson PTS 6 May 9, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
38 Win 27–2–4 (5) Frank Peabody TKO 3 (8) May 4, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
37 Win 26–2–4 (5) Kentucky Rosebud TKO 8 (8) Apr 25, 1895 Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
36 Win 25–2–4 (5) David Armstrong TKO 3 (6) Apr 18, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
35 Loss 24–2–4 (5) Johnny Van Heest PTS 9 (8) Apr 13, 1895 Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Gans had Van Heese whipped to a standstill in the eighth round,
but Mr. Daniel Carr, the referee, ordered an extra round.
Though Van Heest had none the best of the last round, he was given the decision.
34 Win 24–1–4 (5) Kentucky Rosebud NWS 6 Apr 1, 1895 Monumental Amphitheater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
33 Win 23–1–4 (5) Paul Johnson PTS 6 Mar 22, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
32 Win 22–1–4 (5) Harry Hunt TKO 4 (?) Mar 20, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
31 Draw 21–1–4 (5) Howard Wilson PTS 10 Mar 18, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
30 Draw 21–1–3 (5) Fred Sweigert PTS 10 Mar 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
29 Win 21–1–2 (5) Solomon English TKO 10 (10) Mar 6, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Police interfered.
28 Win 20–1–2 (5) Max Wirsing TKO 3 (?) Mar 4, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
27 Draw 19–1–2 (5) James Daly PTS 11 (10) Feb 16, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US An extra-round was fought.
26 Win 19–1–1 (5) James Davis KO 3 (10) Feb 12, 1895 Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day
25 Win 18–1–1 (5) John Ball PTS 6 Feb 12, 1895 Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
24 Win 17–1–1 (5) John Coates PTS 11 (10) Feb 11, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US An additional round was fought to decide the winner.
23 Win 16–1–1 (5) Samuel Young KO 3 (?) Feb 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
22 Win 15–1–1 (5) Fred Sweigert PTS 10 Feb 6, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
21 Draw 14–1–1 (5) Dave Horn PTS 10 Jan 23, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
20 Win 14–1 (5) George Brummell TKO 5 (?) Jan 19, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
19 Win 13–1 (5) Paul Johnson PTS 10 Jan 11, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
18 Win 12–1 (5) Bud Brown PTS 10 Jan 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US Second fight in one day after Allen's corner man offered to fight Gans
17 Win 11–1 (5) Samuel Allen KO 3 (?) Jan 7, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
16 Win 10–1 (5) Fred Sweigert PTS ? Jan 1, 1895 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
15 Win 9–1 (5) Jack McDonald TKO 8 (?) Dec 28, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
14 Win 8–1 (5) John Coates PTS 10 Dec 27, 1894 Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
13 Win 7–1 (5) Fred Sweigert NWS 10 Dec 21, 1894 Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
12 Win 6–1 (5) Travis Brown PTS 6 Dec 17, 1894 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
11 ND 5–1 (5) Bud Young ND 4 Nov 27, 1894 Canton Academy, Baltimore, Maryland, US
10 ND 5–1 (4) Paul Johnson ND 3 (?) Nov 12, 1894 Grand Army Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US Gans was fouled and could not continue. Ruled a no decision
9 Win 5–1 (3) Jackson TKO 3 (4) Jul 10, 1894 Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
8 Loss 4–1 (3) Paul Johnson PTS 5 Jun 27, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US For vacant Maryland colored lightweight title
7 Win 4–0 (3) Gustav Wilkie PTS 4 Jun 26, 1894 Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
6 ND 3–0 (3) Robert Cook ND ? May 21, 1894 M F Conklin`s Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
5 Win 3–0 (2) Harry Brian PTS ? Apr 25, 1894 Allerino Gannic Casino, Baltimore, Maryland, US
4 ND 2–0 (2) Dave Horn ND 3 (?) Apr 19, 1894 Beach's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
3 Win 2–0 (1) William Jones KO 4 (?) Feb 12, 1894 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
2 Win 1–0 (1) William Jones RTD 6 (?) Nov 27, 1893 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
1 ND 0–0 (1) Buck Myers ND ? Oct 23, 1893 Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US

Sports achievements

Awards and achievements
Preceded by World Lightweight Champion
12 May 1902 – 4 July 1908
Succeeded by
Sporting positions
Preceded by Latest Born World Champion to Die
August 10 – October 15, 1910
Succeeded by

See also

References

  1. ^ "Joe Gans, p. 132" (pdf). The Boxing Register: International Boxing Hall Of Fame Official Record Book. International Boxing Hall Of Fame. Retrieved 26 May 2019.
  2. ^ Gildea, William (2012). Longest fight: in the ring with Joe Gans, boxing's first African American champion. Farrar, Straus and Giroux Publishing.
  3. ^ a b c d "BoxRec: Login".
  4. ^ Aycock, Colleen (2008). Joe Gans: A Biography of the First African American World Boxing Champion. Jefferson, North Carolina: McFarland and Company. ISBN 978-0-7864-3994-2.
  5. ^ "George Dixon". Ibhof.com. Retrieved February 24, 2020.
  6. ^ "Joe Walcott - BoxRec". Boxrec.com. Retrieved February 24, 2020.
  7. ^ "Eddie Connolly Easy", The Scranton Republican, Scranton, Pennsylvania, pg. 1, 7 January 1902
  8. ^ a b "Joe Gans". BoxRec. Retrieved June 15, 2015.
  9. ^ Roberts, James B.; Skutt, Alexander G. (1990). "The Boxing Register". International Boxing Hall of Fame. Canastota, NV: McBooks Press. Retrieved June 29, 2015.
  10. ^ "Joe Gans Statue". About Travel. Archived from the original on July 1, 2015. Retrieved June 28, 2015.
  11. ^ "Gans Memorial". BoxRec. Retrieved June 29, 2015.
  12. ^ The Longest Fight (2012). Farrar, Straus, and Giroux, New York, NY. 2012-06-19. ISBN 9780374280970. Retrieved June 28, 2015.
  13. ^ Aycock, Colleen (2008). Joe Gans: A Biography of the First African American World Boxing Champion. Jefferson, North Carolina: McFarland and Company. pp. 6. ISBN 978-0-7864-3994-2.
  14. ^ Lundin, Leigh (January 6, 2013). "Hemingway Punchline". A Matter of Colour. Durban: SleuthSayers.
  15. ^ Lundin, Leigh (December 23, 2012). "Literary Mystery". The Killers. Durban, SA: SleuthSayers. Retrieved June 29, 2015.
  16. ^ "BoxRec: Joe Gans".

Further reading

  • Miles, J.H., Davis, J.J., Ferguson-Roberts, S.E., and Giles, R.G. (2001). Almanac of African American Heritage. Paramus, NJ: Prentice Hall Press.
  • Potter, J. (2002). African American Firsts. New York, NY: Kensington Publishing Corp.
  • Aycock, Colleen and Mark Scott (2008), Joe Gans: A Biography of the First African American World Boxing Champion. Jefferson, NC: McFarland & Co.
  • The Longest Fight: In the Ring with Joe Gans, Boxing’s First African-American Champion. By William Gildea. Farrar, Straus & Giroux; 256 pages

External links