Professional Boxer. Gans was rated as the greatest lightweight boxer of all and the first native born black American to win a world title. He began boxing professionally in 1891 and soon impressed the boxing community with his scientific approach to the sport. In 1902, he became the first Black world champion in any sport when he kayoed Frank Erne in the first round at Ft. Erie, Canada, to take the World Lightweight Championship. For the next six years he defended his title, and his 42 round win over Oscar Nelson at Goldfield, Nevada, on September 3, 1906, remains the longest title fight in history. He ended his career with a record of 145 wins, 100 by knock out, 10 losses, 16 draws and 25 no contests.
Professional Boxer. Gans was rated as the greatest lightweight boxer of all and the first native born black American to win a world title. He began boxing professionally in 1891 and soon impressed the boxing community with his scientific approach to the sport. In 1902, he became the first Black world champion in any sport when he kayoed Frank Erne in the first round at Ft. Erie, Canada, to take the World Lightweight Championship. For the next six years he defended his title, and his 42 round win over Oscar Nelson at Goldfield, Nevada, on September 3, 1906, remains the longest title fight in history. He ended his career with a record of 145 wins, 100 by knock out, 10 losses, 16 draws and 25 no contests.
Bio by: John "J-Cat" Griffith
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