Monday, June 3, 2019

A Superman in a Superpicture -- June 3, 2019

Moving Picture World, 28-June-1919
This six page ad promoted current heavyweight champ Jess Willard, the Pottawatomie Giant, in a feature western, Challenge of Chance. Willard, a cowboy who didn't start boxing until he was 27, was, at the time he won the title from Jack Johnson in 1915, the oldest (33), tallest (6' 6 1/2") and heaviest (235 pounds) heavyweight champ. There was some suspicion that Johnson might have thrown the fight, but no firm evidence.

Moving Picture World, 14-June-1919
Stories and ads about Jess Willard often mentioned his superhuman strength.  There may have been some exaggeration involved.

Moving Picture World, 14-June-1919
"Champion divided his time between acting in studio and training for fight with Dempsey."  Perhaps Willard should have spent more time training and less acting.

Moving Picture World, 14-June-1919
The Mission Inn still operates in Riverside.

Moving Picture World, 21-June-1919
"Released before the fight in all big cities."  The fight took place in Toledo, Ohio on July 4.


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