The life, times and extraordinary legacy of the legendary Joe Louis celebrated in Las Vegas

More than 70 years since his final fight and more than 40 years since he passed away in southern Nevada, the “Brown Bomber” was affectionately remembered by family and fans who fervently adored him, for his efforts in the ring and admired his courageous stance in the civil rights movement. There will NEVER be one like him.

In the Rotunda Gallery of the Clark County Government Center in downtown Las Vegas, local figures, boxing big names and fans gathered, combined and united to honor The Great…The One and Only Joe Louis.

Louis made 25 consecutive defenses of his heavyweight title, a fantastic record that remains intact and has yet to be surpassed to this day. He was also champion longer than any other boxer in history: from 1937 to 1949. In 69 professional fights, Joe lost only three times and notched 52 knockouts. The World Boxing Council participated in the county’s tribute, awarding the Louis family a WBC belt in honor of Joe’s tremendous life and magnificent legacy.

Joe Louis is a boxing legend, who broke up, broke down and dissolved many racial barriers. He was a civil rights pioneer. Joe was widely viewed and regarded as the first African American to be elevated to national hero status in the United States.

“Joe Louis was not only an exceptional boxer and a titanic puncher, but also a civil rights pioneer. Given what he did for the nation and in the fight against discrimination, it is vitally important that we remember Joe Louis’ contributions to the history of sports, our nation and our community. I am very happy and honored to highlight the legacy of this great American,” said Clark County Commissioner William McCurdy II..