Jack Dempsey

The tales of Jack Dempsey's many boxing triumphs have become classics in the history of professional boxing. Born in Manassa, Colorado, Dempsey began fighting at the age of nineteen. As he knocked out one opponent after another, sportswriters dubbed him "Jack the Giant Killer" and the "Manassa Mauler." On July 4, 1919, in his famous bout with Jess Willard-portrayed in a large canvas also owned by the National Portrait Gallery-he claimed the world heavyweight crown.

Dempsey retained this title until 1926, when he was beaten by Gene Tunney. In a subsequent rematch-known as the "Battle of the Long Count" as a result of the referee's slow-starting count over the fallen Tunney in the seventh round-he lost again. After that defeat, Dempsey retired from the ring. Asked once what the secret of success was in boxing, he replied, "Keep your guard up, your chin down, and your seat off the canvas."