Jack Johnson versus Frank Moran, World Heavyweight Title in Paris, June 1914
By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent
One hundred years ago, Jack Johnson, ‘The Galveston Giant’, made the last defense of his world heavyweight title, decisioning Frank Moran in 20 rounds in Paris, France, on June 27, 1914. The referee was Georges Carpentier, the future world light heavyweight champion.
Jack Johnson versus Frank Moran YouTube archival footage highlights of the bout
Johnson came forward and threw, and Moran countered and occasionally scored, surprising the aging Johnson. At age 36, Johnson was beginning to fade, and no longer possessed his legendary power and movement. Though Johnson outclassed Moran, he would be unable to handle Jess Willard in Havana less than a year later.
Johnson’s previous two title bouts left room to be desired. A 10 round draw with Battling Jim Johnson in Paris, and a ninth round disqualification win over Fireman Jim Flynn.
Frank Moran was probably Jack Johnson’s last good world class fight. Johnson had to outwork Moran for the stoppage. Johnson later returned to the United States, where he fought on in forgotten obscurity. Johnson’s last ring appearance was in an exhibition for U.S. War Bonds in 1945 at age 66.
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