Jess Willard
Boxer
Jess Willard Rank
About Jess Willard
Popularly known as the “Pottawatomie Giant”, Jess Willard was an American boxer. He is best known for winning the 1915 world heavyweight championship.
Early Years and Boxing Career
During his teenage years and much into his twenties, the Kansas native worked as a cowboy. He did not begin boxing until he was 27 years old.
Willard had a friendly personality and didn’t like hurting, and would often wait for his opponent to strike before fighting as a way of defending himself. Despite his friendliness, he was extremely strong and in 1913, he punched and killed his opponent in the 9th round. Willard was charged with second degree murder but was acquitted.
Later Years
Willard retired in 1923 and pursued an acting career, starring in the feature film “The Challenge of Change” and “The Prizefighter and the Lady.”
Death
He passed away in 1968. He was posthumously inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2003.
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F.A.Q. about Jess Willard
When is his birthday?
Jess Willard's birthday is on December 29, 1881.
In how many days is his birthday?
Jess' birthday is in 328 days
How old was Jess when he died?
He was 86 years old.
When did he die?
He died in December 15, 1968.
How old would he be today?
Jess Willard would be 141 years old if he was alive today.
Where was Jess from?
He was born in Pottawatomie County, Kansas, U.S..
What was Jess Willard's height?
He was 6′ 0″ (1.83m) tall.