After beating Tommy Burns in 1908 , Jack Johnson became the first ever black world heavyweight champion . He held the belt for six years and Sunday will mark the 100 year anniversary of his last title defence . During a particularly racist period of American history , Johnson 's title reign was met with many protests . Johnson was eventually defeated by Jess Willard in 1915 , following 26 brutal rounds in the sweltering heat of America .
After beating Tommy Burns in 1908 , Jack Johnson became the first ever black world heavyweight champion . He held the belt for six years and Sunday will mark the 100 year anniversary of his last title defence . During a particularly racist period of American history , Johnson 's title reign was met with many protests . Johnson was eventually defeated by Jess Willard in 1915 , following 26 brutal rounds in the sweltering heat of Cuba .