LOUIS, JOE-JACK ROPER WIRE PHOTO (1939-1ST ROUND KNOCKOUT)

On April 17,1939 world heavyweight champion Joe Louis defended his title against Jack Roper at Wrigley Field in Los Angeles. Up against the veteran challenger, Louis (201¼) was expected to win easily and do the job quickly. That was something he achieved inside 140 seconds, but that alone does not tell the complete picture. Roper (204¾) had said prior to the fight that he would come out punching and that is exactly what he did when the first punch of the fight, a cracking left hook, nearly lifted Louis off his feet. Angry that he had almost been dropped, Louis came roaring back and both men let their punches go. Despite being cut over the left eye, Roper was still dangerous and Louis was nearly caught again with a terrific left that just missed the target. Following that the champion quickly got on top with a barrage of blows before a right to the head, followed by a left to the body, sent Roper down for the full count. Offered here is an original wire photo depicting the end of the fight with Roper down and failing to get up.
This is an original International News Photos wire photo with their stamp and caption on the back. Bold, clear image. Not creased. Small closed tear on left edge with no paper loss. Light print marks on borders. 8" x 10."