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," Gans 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 against 13 other boxers.[1] He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.

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

Career

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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 prevalent at 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 Heest 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.[citation needed] 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."[3] In Gans' fight with Buddy King in 1903, they fought in "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

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

Title bouts

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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 the International A.C. in Fort Erie, Ontario, 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."[3] Gans had thus become the first-ever U.S.-born African-American boxing champion. (Canadian-born black George Dixon had won the world bantamweight title in 1892,[5] and Barbados Joe Walcott had won the world welterweight title in 1901,[6] but neither of them was U.S.-born.) Gans reigned as champion from 1902 to 1908.

On January 6, 1902, Gans defeated the former world welterweight champion, Canadian-born Eddie Connolly, 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 Gans' fierce assaults. By the time the referee ended the bout in the fifth round, 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 prearranged draw[clarification needed] 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 the bout was recorded as a Welterweight Title match and thus supposedly had a weight limit of around 142 pounds (which was estimated to be Sullivan's weigh-in[3]), Gans' weigh-in was estimated to have been 134 pounds.[3] 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.[3]

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

Draw with Barbados Joe Walcott

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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

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Joe Gans died on August 10, 1910, of tuberculosis, at the age of 35. He is buried in Mount Auburn Cemetery 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

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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 on the suite floor at Madison Square Garden, having previously been outside of the locker rooms. Boxers would traditionally bump the statue's outstretched left fist for good luck before matches.[10]

Gans’ legendary fight with Battling Nelson on September 3, 1906, 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.[citation needed]

One boxing historian writes of Gans: "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][clarification needed]

Motion picture

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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.[citation needed]

Hemingway connection

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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 1927 parable "The Killers."[15]

Professional boxing record

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All information in this section is derived from BoxRec[3] unless otherwise stated.

Official record

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199 fights147 wins10 losses
By knockout1015
By decision395
By disqualification70
Draws16
No contests6
Newspaper decisions/draws20

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

No.ResultRecordOpponentTypeRound, timeDateLocationNotes
199Win147–10–16 (26)Jabez WhiteNWS10Mar 12, 1909National S.C., New York City, New York, US
198Loss147–10–16 (25)Battling NelsonKO21 (45)Sep 9, 1908Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, USFor world lightweight title
197Loss147–9–16 (25)Battling NelsonKO17 (45)Jul 4, 1908Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, USLost world lightweight title
196Win147–8–16 (25)Rudy UnholzTKO11 (20)May 14, 1908Coliseum, San Francisco, California, USRetained world lightweight title
195Win146–8–16 (25)Frank 'Spike' RobsonTKO3 (6), 2:25Apr 1, 1908National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
194Win145–8–16 (25)Bob BlackburnKO3 (5)Jan 3, 1908Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
193Win144–8–16 (25)George MemsicPTS20Sep 27, 1907Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, USRetained world lightweight title
192Win143–8–16 (25)Jimmy BrittTKO6 (20)Sep 9, 1907Recreation Park, San Francisco, California, USRetained world lightweight title
191Win142–8–16 (25)Kid HermanKO8 (?)Jan 1, 1907Casino A.C. Arena, Tonopah, California, USRetained world lightweight title
190Win141–8–16 (25)Battling NelsonDQ42 ( )Sep 3, 1906Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, USRetained world lightweight title;
A fight to the finish
189Win140–8–16 (25)Dave HollyPTS20Jul 23, 1906Pleasant Beach, Bainbridge Island, Washington, USRetained world lightweight title
188Win139–8–16 (25)Jack BlackburnNWS6Jun 29, 1906National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
187Draw139–8–16 (24)Harry LewisNWS6Jun 15, 1906National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
186Loss139–8–16 (23)Willie LewisNWS6May 18, 1906Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, US
185Win139–8–16 (22)Mike "Twin" SullivanTKO10 (20)Mar 17, 1906Chutes Park, Los Angeles, California, USRetained world welterweight title claim at 142 lbs;
Police stopped the fight
184Win138–8–16 (22)Mike 'Twin' SullivanKO15 (20), 1:15Jan 19, 1906Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, USGans claims world welterweight title at 142lbs
183Draw137–8–16 (22)Mike 'Twin' SullivanPTS15Sep 15, 1905Lyric Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, USRetained world lightweight title;
Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance
182Win137–8–15 (22)Rufe TurnerNWS6Mar 27, 1905Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
181Win137–8–15 (21)Jimmy BrittDQ5 (20), 0:30Oct 31, 1904Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, USRetained world lightweight title;
Britt DQ'd for hitting Gans while he was rising from a knockdown
180Draw136–8–15 (21)Barbados Joe WalcottPTS20Sep 30, 1904Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
179Draw136–8–14 (21)Dave HollyNWS6Jun 27, 1904National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
178Win136–8–14 (20)Sammy SmithTKO4 (6)Jun 13, 1904National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
177Win135–8–14 (20)Kid GriffoTKO7 (15)Jun 3, 1904Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
176Win134–8–14 (20)Jewey CookRTD7 (10)May 27, 1904Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
175Win133–8–14 (20)Sam BolenPTS15Apr 21, 1904Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
174Win132–8–14 (20)Gus GardnerPTS10Mar 28, 1904Arbelten Hall, Saginaw, Michigan, US
173Win131–8–14 (20)Jack BlackburnPTS15Mar 25, 1904Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
172Win130–8–14 (20)Mike WardTKO10 (10)Feb 2, 1904Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US
171Win129–8–14 (20)Joe GrimPTS10Jan 22, 1904Shlegel's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
170Win128–8–14 (20)Clarence ConnorsTKO2 (6)Jan 19, 1904Mount Clemens, Michigan, US
169Win127–8–14 (20)Willie FitzgeraldPTS10Jan 12, 1904Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, USRetained world lightweight title
168Loss126–8–14 (20)Sam LangfordPTS15Dec 8, 1903Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US
167Win126–7–14 (20)Dave HollyNWS6Dec 7, 1903Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
166Loss126–7–14 (19)Jack BlackburnNWS6Nov 2, 1903Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
165Draw126–7–14 (18)Dave HollyNWS6Oct 23, 1903State A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
164Win126–7–14 (17)Eddie KennedyNWS6Oct 20, 1903 Southern A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
163Win126–7–14 (16)Joe GrimNWS6Oct 19, 1903Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
162Win126–7–14 (15)Buddy KingKO5 (20)Jul 4, 1903Old Baseball Park, Butte, Montana, US
161Win125–7–14 (15)Willie FitzgeraldKO10 (20)May 29, 1903Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
160Win124–7–14 (15)Tom TraceyTKO9 (20)May 13, 1903Pastime A.C., Portland, Oregon, US
159Win123–7–14 (15)Jack BennettKO5 (10)Mar 23, 1903Masonic Hall, Allegheny, Pennsylvania, US
158Win122–7–14 (15)Steve CrosbyTKO11 (20)Mar 11, 1903Whittington Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas, USRetained world lightweight title
157Win121–7–14 (15)Gus GardnerDQ11 (20), 1:05Jan 1, 1903Casino, New Britain, Connecticut, USRetained world lightweight title
156Draw120–7–14 (15)Charley SiegarPTS10Dec 31, 1902Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, USPre-arranged draw if lasting the distance.
155Win120–7–13 (15)Howard WilsonTKO3 (20)Dec 19, 1902Scituate Athletic Club, Scituate, Rhode Island, US
154Win119–7–13 (15)Charley SiegarTKO14 (20)Nov 14, 1902Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USRetained world lightweight title
153Win118–7–13 (15)Dave HollyNWS10Oct 14, 1902Maennerchor Hall, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, US
152Win118–7–13 (14)Kid McPartlandKO5 (20), 2:25Oct 13, 1902International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, CanadaRetained world lightweight title
151Win117–7–13 (14)Jack BennettKO2 (6)Sep 22, 1902Golden Gate A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
150Win116–7–13 (14)Gus GardnerKO5 (20)Sep 17, 1902Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
149Win115–7–13 (14)Rufe TurnerKO15 (15)Jul 24, 1902Acme A.C., Oakland, California, USRetained world lightweight title
148Win114–7–13 (14)George 'Elbows' McFaddenTKO3 (20)Jun 27, 1902Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, USRetained world lightweight title
147Win113–7–13 (14)St. Mary's County BullyDQ3 (4)May 29, 1902Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
146Win112–7–13 (14)Charles BoyerTKO2 (4)May 28, 1902Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
145Win111–7–13 (14)Edward SnowdenKO2 (4)May 28, 1902Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
144Win110–7–13 (14)Joe BurkeRTD2 (4)May 27, 1902Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
143Win109–7–13 (14)Frank ErneKO1 (20), 1:40May 12, 1902International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, CanadaWon world lightweight title
142Win108–7–13 (14)Jack BennettKO5 (20)Mar 27, 1902Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
141Win107–7–13 (14)Jack RyanTKO4 (15)Mar 7, 1902Keystone A.C., Allentown, Pennsylvania, US
140Win106–7–13 (14)George 'Elbows' McFaddenNWS6Feb 17, 1902Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
139Win106–7–13 (13)Eddie ConnollyDQ5 (6)Jan 6, 1902Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USConnolly DQ'd for head-butting Gans multiple times under the chin
138Win105–7–13 (13)Tom BroderickKO6 (20)Jan 3, 1902Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
137Win104–7–13 (13)Joe YoungsTKO4 (6)Dec 30, 1901Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USYoungs quit in the middle of the round, with both of his eyes almost closed
136Win103–7–13 (13)Bobby DobbsTKO14 (20)Dec 13, 1901Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
135Win102–7–13 (13)Billy MooreKO3 (20)Nov 22, 1901Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
134Win101–7–13 (13)Jack HanlonKO2 (20)Nov 15, 1901Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
133Win100–7–13 (13)Dan McConnellKO3 (8)Oct 4, 1901Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
132Win99–7–13 (13)Joe HandlerTKO1 (20)Sep 30, 1901Trenton A.C., Trenton, New Jersey, US
131Win98–7–13 (13)Steve CrosbyTKO12 (20)Sep 20, 1901Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice stopped the fight
130Draw97–7–13 (13)Steve CrosbyPTS20Aug 23, 1901Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, USRetained world colored lightweight title
129Win97–7–12 (13)Kid ThomasNWS6Jul 15, 1901Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, USThird fight in one day
128Win97–7–12 (12)Jack DonahueTKO2 (6)Jul 15, 1901Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in one day
127Win96–7–12 (12)Harry BergerNWS6Jul 15, 1901Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
126Win96–7–12 (11)Bobby DobbsKO7 (20)May 31, 1901Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
125Win95–7–12 (11)Martin FlahertyTKO4 (20)Apr 1, 1901Ford's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
124Win94–7–12 (11)Wilmington Jack DalyDQ5 (20), 2:05Feb 13, 1901Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
123Loss93–7–12 (11)Terry McGovernKO2 (6), 2:05Dec 13, 1900Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
122Win93–6–12 (11)Kid ParkerKO4 (10)Nov 16, 1900Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
121Win92–6–12 (11)Jimmy 'Spider' KellyTKO8 (10)Oct 19, 1900Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
120Win91–6–12 (11)Otto SieloffKO9 (10)Oct 16, 1900Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
119Win90–6–12 (11)Alec JohnsonKO1 (5), 2:23Oct 11, 1900Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
118Win89–6–12 (11)Bird Leg CollinsTKO4 (5)Oct 11, 1900Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
117Win88–6–12 (11)Joe YoungsPTS10Oct 5, 1900Colorado A.A., Denver, Colorado, US
116Draw87–6–12 (11)George 'Elbows' McFaddenPTS10Oct 2, 1900Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
115Win87–6–11 (11)George 'Elbows' McFaddenNWS6Sep 7, 1900Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
114Win87–6–11 (10)Dal HawkinsKO3 (25)Aug 31, 1900Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, USTime was either 2:21 or 2:57
113Win86–6–11 (10)Whitey LesterKO4 (20)Jul 12, 1900Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
112Win85–6–11 (10)Young GriffoTKO8 (25), 1:38Jul 10, 1900Seaside A.C., Coney Island, New York, US
111Win84–6–11 (10)Barney FureyKO9 (15)Jun 26, 1900People's Theater, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
110Win83–6–11 (10)Dal HawkinsKO2 (25), 1:15May 25, 1900Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
109Win82–6–11 (10)Chicago Jack DalyTKO5 (6)Apr 1, 1900Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
108Loss81–6–11 (10)Frank ErneTKO12 (25)Mar 23, 1900Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, USFor world lightweight title;
Gans asked to have the bout stopped after being cut by an accidental head-butt.
107Win81–5–11 (10)Spike SullivanTKO14 (25), 2:17Feb 9, 1900Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
106Draw80–5–11 (10)Kid McPartlandPTS6Dec 22, 1899Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
105Win80–5–10 (10)Kid AshPTS15Dec 11, 1899Robinson Opera House, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
104Win79–5–10 (10)Steve CrosbyPTS6Nov 24, 1899Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
103Win78–5–10 (10)George 'Elbows' McFaddenPTS25Oct 31, 1899Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
102Win77–5–10 (10)Martin JudgePTS20Oct 11, 1899Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
101Draw76–5–10 (10)Wilmington Jack DalyNWS6Oct 7, 1899Nonpareil A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
100Win76–5–10 (9)Jimmy 'Spider' KellyPTS25Oct 3, 1899Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
99Win75–5–10 (9)Martin JudgePTS12 (20)Sep 15, 1899Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice stopped the fight at the end of the 12th round
on account of foul work in the clinches.
98Win74–5–10 (9)Eugene BezenahKO10 (25), 2:23Sep 1, 1899Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
97Draw73–5–10 (9)George 'Elbows' McFaddenPTS25Jul 28, 1899Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
96Win73–5–9 (9)Jack DobbsTKO4 (25)Jul 24, 1899Seabright Casino, Ocean City, Maryland, US
95Loss72–5–9 (9)George 'Elbows' McFaddenKO23 (25)Apr 14, 1899Broadway A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, New York, US
94Win72–4–9 (9)Billy ErnstDQ10 (20)Feb 6, 1899Olympic A.C., Buffalo, New York, USErnst DQ'd for headbutting Gans
93Win71–4–9 (9)Martin JudgePTS20Jan 28, 1899Crescent A.C., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
92Win70–4–9 (9)Young SmyrnaKO2 (25), 2:50Jan 13, 1899Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
91Win69–4–9 (9)Wilmington Jack DalyPTS25Dec 27, 1898Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
90Win68–4–9 (9)Kid McPartlandPTS25Nov 4, 1898Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
89Win67–4–9 (9)William DukePTS4Sep 30, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
88Win66–4–9 (9)Fred SweigertPTS4Sep 29, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
87Win65–4–9 (9)James MartinTKO4 (4)Sep 28, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
86Win64–4–9 (9)Joseph SmithTKO1 (4)Sep 27, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USThird fight in one day
85Win63–4–9 (9)William HintonTKO1 (4)Sep 27, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in one day
84Win62–4–9 (9)Buck BaynorTKO3 (4)Sep 27, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
83Win61–4–9 (9)Herman MillerPTS4Sep 26, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
82Win60–4–9 (9)Thomas JacksonKO3 (25), 1:32Sep 1, 1898Talbot county fair, Easton, Maryland, US
81Win59–4–9 (9)Young SmyrnaTKO15 (25), 2:23Aug 26, 1898Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
80Win58–4–9 (9)Billy ErnstKO11 (25)Aug 8, 1898Greater New York A.C., New York City, New York, US
79Win57–4–9 (9)George BrownTKO6 (10)Jul 1, 1898Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
78Win56–4–9 (9)Joe Kid RobinsonPTS6Jun 3, 1898Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
77NC55–4–9 (9)Joe Kid RobinsonNC3 (6)Jun 2, 1898Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, USThe lights went out in the building, and the show had to be called off until next day.
76Win55–4–9 (8)Steve CrosbyRTD6 (20)May 11, 1898Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US
75Win54–4–9 (8)Young StarlightTKO3 (3)Apr 11, 1898Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in a day
74Win53–4–9 (8)Young SmyrnaTKO3 (3)Apr 11, 1898Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice stopped the fight.
73Win52–4–9 (8)Tommy ShortellTKO6 (8)Mar 11, 1898Academy Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
72Win51–4–9 (8)Frank GarrardTKO15 (20)Jan 17, 1898Central Armory, Cleveland, Ohio, US
71Win50–4–9 (9)Billy YoungTKO2 (8)Jan 3, 1898Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
70Win49–4–9 (8)Stanton AbbottTKO5 (8), 2:15Nov 29, 1897Academy of Music, Baltimore, Maryland, US
69Draw48–4–9 (8)Wilmington Jack DalyNWS6Nov 6, 1897Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
68Loss48–4–9 (7)Bobby DobbsPTS20Sep 27, 1897Greenpoint S.C., New York City, New York, USFor world colored lightweight title
67Draw48–3–9 (7)Young GriffoPTS15Sep 21, 1897Olympic A.C., Athens, Pennsylvania, US
66Win48–3–8 (7)Izzy StraussKO5 (15)Aug 30, 1897Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
65Win47–3–8 (7)Jack McCueTKO6 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, USFifth fight in a day
64Win46–3–8 (7)John CoatesTKO5 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, USFourth fight in a day
63Win45–3–8 (7)Jerry MarshallTKO8 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, USThird fight in a day
62Win44–3–8 (7)George ThomasTKO3 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in a day
61Win43–3–8 (7)August StenzieTKO3 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US
60Win42–3–8 (7)Mike LeonardPTS20May 18, 1897Olympic A.C., San Francisco, California, US
59Win41–3–8 (7)Howard WilsonKO9 (20)Apr 3, 1897Polo A.C., New York City, New York, US
58Win40–3–8 (7)Charles RochetteRTD4 (10)Dec 14, 1896Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
57Win39–3–8 (7)Jerry MarshallPTS20Nov 12, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
56Win38–3–8 (7)Jack WilliamsTKO3 (8)Oct 19, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice stopped the fight.
55Loss37–3–8 (7)Dal HawkinsPTS15Oct 6, 1896Bohemian Sporting Club, New York City, New York, US
54Win37–2–8 (7)John BallPTS4Sep 28, 1896East Side A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
53Draw36–2–8 (7)Danny McBridePTS20Aug 31, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
52Win36–2–7 (7)Jack WilliamsTKO2 (?)Aug 20, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
51Win35–2–7 (7)Tommy ButlerPTS12Jun 29, 1896South Brooklyn A.C., New York City, New York, US
50Win34–2–7 (7)Jimmy WatsonPTS10Jun 8, 1896Bijou Theater, Paterson, New Jersey, US
49Win33–2–7 (7)Jimmy KennardTKO6 (12)Feb 22, 1896West Newton Street Armory, Boston, Massachusetts, US
48Win32–2–7 (7)Joe ElliottKO7 (8)Jan 17, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
47Win31–2–7 (7)Benny PetersonPTS4Jan 11, 1896Ariel A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
46Win30–2–7 (7)George SiddonsKO7 (25), 2:50Nov 28, 1895Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
45Draw29–2–7 (7)Young GriffoPTS10Nov 18, 1895Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, USPre-arranged draw if lasting full distance.
44Win29–2–6 (7)Joe ElliottKO9 (25)Oct 21, 1895Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
43Draw28–2–6 (7)George SiddonsPTS20Jul 15, 1895Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
42Win28–2–5 (7)Howard WilsonPTS10May 28, 1895Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
41Win27–2–5 (7)Benny PetersonKO17 (20)May 20, 1895Riverside Athletic Club, New York City, New York, US
40Win26–2–5 (7)George WillisKO4 (10)May 14, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
39Draw25–2–5 (7)Howard WilsonPTS6May 9, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
38Win25–2–4 (7)Frank PeabodyTKO3 (8)May 4, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
37Win24–2–4 (7)Kentucky RosebudTKO8 (8)Apr 25, 1895Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
36Win23–2–4 (7)David ArmstrongTKO3 (6)Apr 18, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
35Loss22–2–4 (7)Johnny Van HeestPTS9 (8)Apr 13, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USGans 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.
34Win22–1–4 (7)Kentucky RosebudNWS6Apr 1, 1895Monumental Amphitheater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
33Win22–1–4 (6)Paul JohnsonPTS6Mar 22, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
32Win21–1–4 (6)Harry HuntTKO4 (?)Mar 20, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
31Draw20–1–4 (6)Howard WilsonPTS10Mar 18, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
30Draw20–1–3 (6)Fred SweigertPTS10Mar 7, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
29Win20–1–2 (6)Solomon EnglishTKO10 (10)Mar 6, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice interfered.
28Win19–1–2 (6)Max WirsingTKO3 (?)Mar 4, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
27Draw18–1–2 (6)James DalyPTS11 (10)Feb 16, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USAn extra-round was fought.
26Win18–1–1 (6)James DavisKO3 (10)Feb 12, 1895Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in one day
25Win17–1–1 (6)John BallPTS6Feb 12, 1895Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
24Win16–1–1 (6)John CoatesPTS11 (10)Feb 11, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USAn additional round was fought to decide the winner.
23Win15–1–1 (6)Samuel YoungKO3 (?)Feb 7, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
22Win14–1–1 (6)Fred SweigertPTS10Feb 6, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
21Draw13–1–1 (6)Dave HornPTS10Jan 23, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
20Win13–1 (6)George BrummellTKO5 (?)Jan 19, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
19Win12–1 (6)Paul JohnsonPTS10Jan 11, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
18Win11–1 (6)Bud BrownPTS10Jan 7, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in one day after Allen's corner man offered to fight Gans
17Win10–1 (6)Samuel AllenKO3 (?)Jan 7, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
16Win9–1 (6)Fred SweigertPTS?Jan 1, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
15Win8–1 (6)Jack McDonaldTKO8 (?)Dec 28, 1894Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
14Win7–1 (6)John CoatesPTS10Dec 27, 1894Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
13Win6–1 (6)Fred SweigertNWS10Dec 21, 1894Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
12Win6–1 (5)Travis BrownPTS6Dec 17, 1894Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
11ND5–1 (5)Bud YoungND4Nov 27, 1894Canton Academy, Baltimore, Maryland, US
10ND5–1 (4)Paul JohnsonND3 (?)Nov 12, 1894Grand Army Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USGans was fouled and could not continue. Ruled a no decision
9Win5–1 (3)JacksonTKO3 (4)Jul 10, 1894Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
8Loss4–1 (3)Paul JohnsonPTS5Jun 27, 1894Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USFor vacant Maryland colored lightweight title
7Win4–0 (3)Gustav WilkiePTS4Jun 26, 1894Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
6ND3–0 (3)Robert CookND?May 21, 1894M F Conklin`s Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
5Win3–0 (2)Harry BrianPTS?Apr 25, 1894Allerino Gannic Casino, Baltimore, Maryland, US
4ND2–0 (2)Dave HornND3 (?)Apr 19, 1894Beach's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
3Win2–0 (1)William JonesKO4 (?)Feb 12, 1894Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
2Win1–0 (1)William JonesRTD6 (?)Nov 27, 1893Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
1ND0–0 (1)Buck MyersND?Oct 23, 1893Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US

Unofficial record

edit
199 fights160 wins12 losses
By knockout1015
By decision527
By disqualification70
Draws21
No contests6

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

No.ResultRecordOpponentTypeRound, timeDateLocationNotes
199Win160–12–21 (6)Jabez WhiteNWS10Mar 12, 1909National S.C., New York City, New York, US
198Loss159–12–21 (6)Battling NelsonKO21 (45)Sep 9, 1908Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, USFor world lightweight title
197Loss159–11–21 (6)Battling NelsonKO17 (45)Jul 4, 1908Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, USLost world lightweight title
196Win159–10–21 (6)Rudy UnholzTKO11 (20)May 14, 1908Coliseum, San Francisco, California, USRetained world lightweight title
195Win158–10–21 (6)Frank 'Spike' RobsonTKO3 (6), 2:25Apr 1, 1908National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
194Win157–10–21 (6)Bob BlackburnKO3 (5)Jan 3, 1908Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
193Win156–10–21 (6)George MemsicPTS20Sep 27, 1907Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, USRetained world lightweight title
192Win155–10–21 (6)Jimmy BrittTKO6 (20)Sep 9, 1907Recreation Park, San Francisco, California, USRetained world lightweight title
191Win154–10–21 (6)Kid HermanKO8 (?)Jan 1, 1907Casino A.C. Arena, Tonopah, California, USRetained world lightweight title
190Win153–10–21 (6)Battling NelsonDQ42 ( )Sep 3, 1906Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, USRetained world lightweight title;
A fight to the finish
189Win152–10–21 (6)Dave HollyPTS20Jul 23, 1906Pleasant Beach, Bainbridge Island, Washington, USRetained world lightweight title
188Win151–10–21 (6)Jack BlackburnNWS6Jun 29, 1906National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
187Draw150–10–21 (6)Harry LewisNWS6Jun 15, 1906National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
186Loss150–10–20 (6)Willie LewisNWS6May 18, 1906Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, US
185Win150–9–20 (6)Mike "Twin" SullivanTKO10 (20)Mar 17, 1906Chutes Park, Los Angeles, California, USRetained world welterweight title claim at 142 lbs;
Police stopped the fight
184Win149–9–20 (6)Mike 'Twin' SullivanKO15 (20), 1:15Jan 19, 1906Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, USGans claims world welterweight title at 142lbs
183Draw148–9–20 (6)Mike 'Twin' SullivanPTS15Sep 15, 1905Lyric Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, USRetained world lightweight title;
Pre-arranged draw if lasting the distance
182Win148–9–19 (6)Rufe TurnerNWS6Mar 27, 1905Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
181Win147–9–19 (6)Jimmy BrittDQ5 (20), 0:30Oct 31, 1904Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, USRetained world lightweight title;
Britt DQ'd for hitting Gans while he was rising from a knockdown
180Draw146–9–19 (6)Barbados Joe WalcottPTS20Sep 30, 1904Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
179Draw146–9–18 (6)Dave HollyNWS6Jun 27, 1904National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
178Win146–9–17 (6)Sammy SmithTKO4 (6)Jun 13, 1904National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
177Win145–9–17 (6)Kid GriffoTKO7 (15)Jun 3, 1904Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
176Win144–9–17 (6)Jewey CookRTD7 (10)May 27, 1904Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
175Win143–9–17 (6)Sam BolenPTS15Apr 21, 1904Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
174Win142–9–17 (6)Gus GardnerPTS10Mar 28, 1904Arbelten Hall, Saginaw, Michigan, US
173Win141–9–17 (6)Jack BlackburnPTS15Mar 25, 1904Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
172Win140–9–17 (6)Mike WardTKO10 (10)Feb 2, 1904Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, US
171Win139–9–17 (6)Joe GrimPTS10Jan 22, 1904Shlegel's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
170Win138–9–17 (6)Clarence ConnorsTKO2 (6)Jan 19, 1904Mount Clemens, Michigan, US
169Win137–9–17 (6)Willie FitzgeraldPTS10Jan 12, 1904Light Guard Armory, Detroit, Michigan, USRetained world lightweight title
168Loss136–9–17 (6)Sam LangfordPTS15Dec 8, 1903Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, US
167Win136–8–17 (6)Dave HollyNWS6Dec 7, 1903Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
166Loss135–8–17 (6)Jack BlackburnNWS6Nov 2, 1903Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
165Draw135–7–17 (6)Dave HollyNWS6Oct 23, 1903State A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
164Win135–7–16 (6)Eddie KennedyNWS6Oct 20, 1903 Southern A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
163Win134–7–16 (6)Joe GrimNWS6Oct 19, 1903Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
162Win133–7–16 (6)Buddy KingKO5 (20)Jul 4, 1903Old Baseball Park, Butte, Montana, US
161Win132–7–16 (6)Willie FitzgeraldKO10 (20)May 29, 1903Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
160Win131–7–16 (6)Tom TraceyTKO9 (20)May 13, 1903Pastime A.C., Portland, Oregon, US
159Win130–7–16 (6)Jack BennettKO5 (10)Mar 23, 1903Masonic Hall, Allegheny, Pennsylvania, US
158Win129–7–16 (6)Steve CrosbyTKO11 (20)Mar 11, 1903Whittington Park, Hot Springs, Arkansas, USRetained world lightweight title
157Win128–7–16 (6)Gus GardnerDQ11 (20), 1:05Jan 1, 1903Casino, New Britain, Connecticut, USRetained world lightweight title
156Draw127–7–16 (6)Charley SiegarPTS10Dec 31, 1902Criterion A.C., Boston, Massachusetts, USPre-arranged draw if lasting the distance.
155Win127–7–15 (6)Howard WilsonTKO3 (20)Dec 19, 1902Scituate Athletic Club, Scituate, Rhode Island, US
154Win126–7–15 (6)Charley SiegarTKO14 (20)Nov 14, 1902Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USRetained world lightweight title
153Win125–7–15 (6)Dave HollyNWS10Oct 14, 1902Maennerchor Hall, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, US
152Win124–7–15 (6)Kid McPartlandKO5 (20), 2:25Oct 13, 1902International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, CanadaRetained world lightweight title
151Win123–7–15 (6)Jack BennettKO2 (6)Sep 22, 1902Golden Gate A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
150Win122–7–15 (6)Gus GardnerKO5 (20)Sep 17, 1902Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
149Win121–7–15 (6)Rufe TurnerKO15 (15)Jul 24, 1902Acme A.C., Oakland, California, USRetained world lightweight title
148Win120–7–15 (6)George 'Elbows' McFaddenTKO3 (20)Jun 27, 1902Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, USRetained world lightweight title
147Win119–7–15 (6)St. Mary's County BullyDQ3 (4)May 29, 1902Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
146Win118–7–15 (6)Charles BoyerTKO2 (4)May 28, 1902Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
145Win117–7–15 (6)Edward SnowdenKO2 (4)May 28, 1902Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
144Win116–7–15 (6)Joe BurkeRTD2 (4)May 27, 1902Monumental Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
143Win115–7–15 (6)Frank ErneKO1 (20), 1:40May 12, 1902International A.C., Fort Erie, Ontario, CanadaWon world lightweight title
142Win114–7–15 (6)Jack BennettKO5 (20)Mar 27, 1902Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
141Win113–7–15 (6)Jack RyanTKO4 (15)Mar 7, 1902Keystone A.C., Allentown, Pennsylvania, US
140Win112–7–15 (6)George 'Elbows' McFaddenNWS6Feb 17, 1902Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
139Win111–7–15 (6)Eddie ConnollyDQ5 (6)Jan 6, 1902Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USConnolly DQ'd for head-butting Gans multiple times under the chin
138Win110–7–15 (6)Tom BroderickKO6 (20)Jan 3, 1902Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
137Win109–7–15 (6)Joe YoungsTKO4 (6)Dec 30, 1901Washington S.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USYoungs quit in the middle of the round, with both of his eyes almost closed
136Win108–7–15 (6)Bobby DobbsTKO14 (20)Dec 13, 1901Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
135Win107–7–15 (6)Billy MooreKO3 (20)Nov 22, 1901Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
134Win106–7–15 (6)Jack HanlonKO2 (20)Nov 15, 1901Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
133Win105–7–15 (6)Dan McConnellKO3 (8)Oct 4, 1901Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
132Win104–7–15 (6)Joe HandlerTKO1 (20)Sep 30, 1901Trenton A.C., Trenton, New Jersey, US
131Win103–7–15 (6)Steve CrosbyTKO12 (20)Sep 20, 1901Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice stopped the fight
130Draw102–7–15 (6)Steve CrosbyPTS20Aug 23, 1901Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, USRetained world colored lightweight title
129Win102–7–14 (6)Kid ThomasNWS6Jul 15, 1901Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, USThird fight in one day
128Win101–7–14 (6)Jack DonahueTKO2 (6)Jul 15, 1901Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in one day
127Win100–7–14 (6)Harry BergerNWS6Jul 15, 1901Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
126Win99–7–14 (6)Bobby DobbsKO7 (20)May 31, 1901Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
125Win98–7–14 (6)Martin FlahertyTKO4 (20)Apr 1, 1901Ford's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
124Win97–7–14 (6)Wilmington Jack DalyDQ5 (20), 2:05Feb 13, 1901Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
123Loss96–7–14 (6)Terry McGovernKO2 (6), 2:05Dec 13, 1900Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
122Win96–6–14 (6)Kid ParkerKO4 (10)Nov 16, 1900Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
121Win95–6–14 (6)Jimmy 'Spider' KellyTKO8 (10)Oct 19, 1900Colorado A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
120Win94–6–14 (6)Otto SieloffKO9 (10)Oct 16, 1900Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
119Win93–6–14 (6)Alec JohnsonKO1 (5), 2:23Oct 11, 1900Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
118Win92–6–14 (6)Bird Leg CollinsTKO4 (5)Oct 11, 1900Leadville Athletic Club, Leadville, Colorado, US
117Win91–6–14 (6)Joe YoungsPTS10Oct 5, 1900Colorado A.A., Denver, Colorado, US
116Draw90–6–14 (6)George 'Elbows' McFaddenPTS10Oct 2, 1900Olympic A.C., Denver, Colorado, US
115Win90–6–13 (6)George 'Elbows' McFaddenNWS6Sep 7, 1900Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
114Win89–6–13 (6)Dal HawkinsKO3 (25)Aug 31, 1900Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, USTime was either 2:21 or 2:57
113Win88–6–13 (6)Whitey LesterKO4 (20)Jul 12, 1900Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
112Win87–6–13 (6)Young GriffoTKO8 (25), 1:38Jul 10, 1900Seaside A.C., Coney Island, New York, US
111Win86–6–13 (6)Barney FureyKO9 (15)Jun 26, 1900People's Theater, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
110Win85–6–13 (6)Dal HawkinsKO2 (25), 1:15May 25, 1900Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
109Win84–6–13 (6)Chicago Jack DalyTKO5 (6)Apr 1, 1900Penn Art Club, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
108Loss83–6–13 (6)Frank ErneTKO12 (25)Mar 23, 1900Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, USFor world lightweight title;
Gans asked to have the bout stopped after being cut by an accidental head-butt.
107Win83–5–13 (6)Spike SullivanTKO14 (25), 2:17Feb 9, 1900Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
106Draw82–5–13 (6)Kid McPartlandPTS6Dec 22, 1899Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
105Win82–5–12 (6)Kid AshPTS15Dec 11, 1899Robinson Opera House, Cincinnati, Ohio, US
104Win81–5–12 (6)Steve CrosbyPTS6Nov 24, 1899Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, US
103Win80–5–12 (6)George 'Elbows' McFaddenPTS25Oct 31, 1899Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
102Win79–5–12 (6)Martin JudgePTS20Oct 11, 1899Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
101Draw78–5–12 (6)Wilmington Jack DalyNWS6Oct 7, 1899Nonpareil A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
100Win78–5–11 (6)Jimmy 'Spider' KellyPTS25Oct 3, 1899Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
99Win77–5–11 (6)Martin JudgePTS12 (20)Sep 15, 1899Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice stopped the fight at the end of the 12th round
on account of foul work in the clinches.
98Win76–5–11 (6)Eugene BezenahKO10 (25), 2:23Sep 1, 1899Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
97Draw75–5–11 (6)George 'Elbows' McFaddenPTS25Jul 28, 1899Broadway A.C., New York City, New York, US
96Win75–5–10 (6)Jack DobbsTKO4 (25)Jul 24, 1899Seabright Casino, Ocean City, Maryland, US
95Loss74–5–10 (6)George 'Elbows' McFaddenKO23 (25)Apr 14, 1899Broadway A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, New York, US
94Win74–4–10 (6)Billy ErnstDQ10 (20)Feb 6, 1899Olympic A.C., Buffalo, New York, USErnst DQ'd for headbutting Gans
93Win73–4–10 (6)Martin JudgePTS20Jan 28, 1899Crescent A.C., Toronto, Ontario, Canada
92Win72–4–10 (6)Young SmyrnaKO2 (25), 2:50Jan 13, 1899Germania Maennerchor Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
91Win71–4–10 (6)Wilmington Jack DalyPTS25Dec 27, 1898Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
90Win70–4–10 (6)Kid McPartlandPTS25Nov 4, 1898Lenox A.C., New York City, New York, US
89Win69–4–10 (6)William DukePTS4Sep 30, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
88Win68–4–10 (6)Fred SweigertPTS4Sep 29, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
87Win67–4–10 (6)James MartinTKO4 (4)Sep 28, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
86Win66–4–10 (6)Joseph SmithTKO1 (4)Sep 27, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USThird fight in one day
85Win65–4–10 (6)William HintonTKO1 (4)Sep 27, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in one day
84Win64–4–10 (6)Buck BaynorTKO3 (4)Sep 27, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
83Win63–4–10 (6)Herman MillerPTS4Sep 26, 1898Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
82Win62–4–10 (6)Thomas JacksonKO3 (25), 1:32Sep 1, 1898Talbot county fair, Easton, Maryland, US
81Win61–4–10 (6)Young SmyrnaTKO15 (25), 2:23Aug 26, 1898Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
80Win60–4–10 (6)Billy ErnstKO11 (25)Aug 8, 1898Greater New York A.C., New York City, New York, US
79Win59–4–10 (6)George BrownTKO6 (10)Jul 1, 1898Ford Opera House, Baltimore, Maryland, US
78Win58–4–10 (6)Joe Kid RobinsonPTS6Jun 3, 1898Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, US
77NC57–4–10 (6)Joe Kid RobinsonNC3 (6)Jun 2, 1898Tattersall's, Chicago, Illinois, USThe lights went out in the building, and the show had to be called off until next day.
76Win57–4–10 (5)Steve CrosbyRTD6 (20)May 11, 1898Music Hall, Louisville, Kentucky, US
75Win56–4–10 (5)Young StarlightTKO3 (3)Apr 11, 1898Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in a day
74Win55–4–10 (5)Young SmyrnaTKO3 (3)Apr 11, 1898Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice stopped the fight.
73Win54–4–10 (5)Tommy ShortellTKO6 (8)Mar 11, 1898Academy Music Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
72Win53–4–10 (5)Frank GarrardTKO15 (20)Jan 17, 1898Central Armory, Cleveland, Ohio, US
71Win52–4–10 (5)Billy YoungTKO2 (8)Jan 3, 1898Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
70Win51–4–10 (5)Stanton AbbottTKO5 (8), 2:15Nov 29, 1897Academy of Music, Baltimore, Maryland, US
69Draw50–4–10 (5)Wilmington Jack DalyNWS6Nov 6, 1897Arena, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
68Loss50–4–9 (5)Bobby DobbsPTS20Sep 27, 1897Greenpoint S.C., New York City, New York, USFor world colored lightweight title
67Draw50–3–9 (5)Young GriffoPTS15Sep 21, 1897Olympic A.C., Athens, Pennsylvania, US
66Win50–3–8 (5)Izzy StraussKO5 (15)Aug 30, 1897Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
65Win49–3–8 (5)Jack McCueTKO6 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, USFifth fight in a day
64Win48–3–8 (5)John CoatesTKO5 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, USFourth fight in a day
63Win47–3–8 (5)Jerry MarshallTKO8 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, USThird fight in a day
62Win46–3–8 (5)George ThomasTKO3 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in a day
61Win45–3–8 (5)August StenzieTKO3 (?)Aug 24, 1897Shell road, Baltimore, Maryland, US
60Win44–3–8 (5)Mike LeonardPTS20May 18, 1897Olympic A.C., San Francisco, California, US
59Win43–3–8 (5)Howard WilsonKO9 (20)Apr 3, 1897Polo A.C., New York City, New York, US
58Win42–3–8 (5)Charles RochetteRTD4 (10)Dec 14, 1896Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, US
57Win41–3–8 (5)Jerry MarshallPTS20Nov 12, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
56Win40–3–8 (5)Jack WilliamsTKO3 (8)Oct 19, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice stopped the fight.
55Loss39–3–8 (5)Dal HawkinsPTS15Oct 6, 1896Bohemian Sporting Club, New York City, New York, US
54Win39–2–8 (5)John BallPTS4Sep 28, 1896East Side A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
53Draw38–2–8 (5)Danny McBridePTS20Aug 31, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
52Win38–2–7 (5)Jack WilliamsTKO2 (?)Aug 20, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
51Win37–2–7 (5)Tommy ButlerPTS12Jun 29, 1896South Brooklyn A.C., New York City, New York, US
50Win36–2–7 (5)Jimmy WatsonPTS10Jun 8, 1896Bijou Theater, Paterson, New Jersey, US
49Win35–2–7 (5)Jimmy KennardTKO6 (12)Feb 22, 1896West Newton Street Armory, Boston, Massachusetts, US
48Win34–2–7 (5)Joe ElliottKO7 (8)Jan 17, 1896Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
47Win33–2–7 (5)Benny PetersonPTS4Jan 11, 1896Ariel A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, US
46Win32–2–7 (5)George SiddonsKO7 (25), 2:50Nov 28, 1895Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
45Draw31–2–7 (5)Young GriffoPTS10Nov 18, 1895Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, USPre-arranged draw if lasting full distance.
44Win31–2–6 (5)Joe ElliottKO9 (25)Oct 21, 1895Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
43Draw30–2–6 (5)George SiddonsPTS20Jul 15, 1895Eureka Athletic Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
42Win30–2–5 (5)Howard WilsonPTS10May 28, 1895Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
41Win29–2–5 (5)Benny PetersonKO17 (20)May 20, 1895Riverside Athletic Club, New York City, New York, US
40Win28–2–5 (5)George WillisKO4 (10)May 14, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
39Draw27–2–5 (5)Howard WilsonPTS6May 9, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
38Win27–2–4 (5)Frank PeabodyTKO3 (8)May 4, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
37Win26–2–4 (5)Kentucky RosebudTKO8 (8)Apr 25, 1895Front Street Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
36Win25–2–4 (5)David ArmstrongTKO3 (6)Apr 18, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
35Loss24–2–4 (5)Johnny Van HeestPTS9 (8)Apr 13, 1895Monumental Amphitheatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USGans 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.
34Win24–1–4 (5)Kentucky RosebudNWS6Apr 1, 1895Monumental Amphitheater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
33Win23–1–4 (5)Paul JohnsonPTS6Mar 22, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
32Win22–1–4 (5)Harry HuntTKO4 (?)Mar 20, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
31Draw21–1–4 (5)Howard WilsonPTS10Mar 18, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
30Draw21–1–3 (5)Fred SweigertPTS10Mar 7, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
29Win21–1–2 (5)Solomon EnglishTKO10 (10)Mar 6, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USPolice interfered.
28Win20–1–2 (5)Max WirsingTKO3 (?)Mar 4, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
27Draw19–1–2 (5)James DalyPTS11 (10)Feb 16, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USAn extra-round was fought.
26Win19–1–1 (5)James DavisKO3 (10)Feb 12, 1895Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in one day
25Win18–1–1 (5)John BallPTS6Feb 12, 1895Kernan's Theater, Baltimore, Maryland, US
24Win17–1–1 (5)John CoatesPTS11 (10)Feb 11, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USAn additional round was fought to decide the winner.
23Win16–1–1 (5)Samuel YoungKO3 (?)Feb 7, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
22Win15–1–1 (5)Fred SweigertPTS10Feb 6, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
21Draw14–1–1 (5)Dave HornPTS10Jan 23, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
20Win14–1 (5)George BrummellTKO5 (?)Jan 19, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
19Win13–1 (5)Paul JohnsonPTS10Jan 11, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
18Win12–1 (5)Bud BrownPTS10Jan 7, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USSecond fight in one day after Allen's corner man offered to fight Gans
17Win11–1 (5)Samuel AllenKO3 (?)Jan 7, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
16Win10–1 (5)Fred SweigertPTS?Jan 1, 1895Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
15Win9–1 (5)Jack McDonaldTKO8 (?)Dec 28, 1894Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
14Win8–1 (5)John CoatesPTS10Dec 27, 1894Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
13Win7–1 (5)Fred SweigertNWS10Dec 21, 1894Monumental A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, US
12Win6–1 (5)Travis BrownPTS6Dec 17, 1894Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
11ND5–1 (5)Bud YoungND4Nov 27, 1894Canton Academy, Baltimore, Maryland, US
10ND5–1 (4)Paul JohnsonND3 (?)Nov 12, 1894Grand Army Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, USGans was fouled and could not continue. Ruled a no decision
9Win5–1 (3)JacksonTKO3 (4)Jul 10, 1894Kernan's Theatre, Washington, D.C., US
8Loss4–1 (3)Paul JohnsonPTS5Jun 27, 1894Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, USFor vacant Maryland colored lightweight title
7Win4–0 (3)Gustav WilkiePTS4Jun 26, 1894Monumental Theatre, Baltimore, Maryland, US
6ND3–0 (3)Robert CookND?May 21, 1894M F Conklin`s Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
5Win3–0 (2)Harry BrianPTS?Apr 25, 1894Allerino Gannic Casino, Baltimore, Maryland, US
4ND2–0 (2)Dave HornND3 (?)Apr 19, 1894Beach's Hall, Baltimore, Maryland, US
3Win2–0 (1)William JonesKO4 (?)Feb 12, 1894Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
2Win1–0 (1)William JonesRTD6 (?)Nov 27, 1893Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US
1ND0–0 (1)Buck MyersND?Oct 23, 1893Avon Club, Baltimore, Maryland, US

Sports achievements

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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

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References

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  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 e f g h "Joe Gans". BoxRec.com.
  4. ^ Colleen Aycock (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 2020-02-24.
  6. ^ "Joe Walcott". BoxRec. Retrieved 2020-02-24.
  7. ^ "Eddie Connolly Easy". The Scranton Republican. Scranton, Pennsylvania. 1902-01-07. p. 1.
  8. ^ "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. ^ Colleen Aycock (2008). Joe Gans: A Biography of the First African American World Boxing Champion. Jefferson, North Carolina: McFarland and Company. p. 6. ISBN 978-0-7864-3994-2.
  14. ^ Lundin, Leigh (2013-01-06). "A Hemingway Punchline". SleuthSayers.
  15. ^ Leigh Lundin (2012-12-23). "Literary Mystery". SleuthSayers. Retrieved 2015-06-29.

Further reading

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  • 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
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