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10 legendary black boxers who shaped the sport of boxing

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Muhammad Ali, theGrio.com

Black boxers have been entertaining people for a long time by watching them live in Vegas or paying to fight on cable television. Many people admire the physical strength of anyone who can consistently take and deal repeated blows. However, the violence of boxing goes hand in hand with extreme discipline, fitness and the ability to effect social change.

Boxing’s 10 best black boxers

These ten men stand out as some of the biggest athletes of all time.

Muhammad Ali

American boxer Muhammad Ali (1942-2016) trains with a punching bag before his fight with Briton Brian London, in London, England, August 3, 1966. (Photo by R McPhedran/Daily Express/Hulton Archive/Getty Images) – Source: photo: R. McPhedran / Getty Images

When it involves black athletes who have modified sports, used their political influence and have at all times been in high demand, the first name that usually involves mind is Muhammad Ali. Born Cassius Clay, his unrivaled profession record was 56-5, including 37 by knockout. At the height of Ali’s profession, his strong stance against the Vietnam War banned him from the sport for 4 years. During this time, he never wavered as a conscientious objector. Ali set out to save lots of the real fight for civil rights and regained the heavyweight title in 1974 after defeating Joe Frazier.

Joe Louis (Joseph Louis Barrow)

GI Joe Louis, theGrio.com
American boxer and world heavyweight champion Joe Louis Barrow (1914 – 1981) while serving in the US Army. (Photo: Express Newspapers/Getty Images) – Source: Photo Express / Getty Images newspapers

Boxing fans understand that Joe Louis’ legacy goes beyond winning his first 27 fights in a row. After a surprising defeat against German boxer Max Schmeling in 1936, he defeated him in a rematch considered a symbolic fight against Hitler, who was already conquering Europe. Louis further stands out not only amongst famous black boxers, but all boxers, as he maintained champion status for 12 years.

Mike Tyson

Mike Tyson, theGrio.com
FILE – Former heavyweight boxing champion Mike Tyson stands on the field before an NFL football game between the Las Vegas Raiders and the Pittsburgh Steelers, Sept. 24, 2023, in Las Vegas. When New York’s Adult Survivors Act expired on Friday, November 24, greater than 3,700 lawsuits had been filed, many of the latest against celebrities like Tyson and a handful of politicians. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill, File)

Among the heavyweight champions who got here closest to Ali’s record is Mike Tyson, who retired with a 50-6 record that included 44 knockouts. His boxing profession began at the age of 18 when he knocked out Hector Mercedes in a single round. Fast forward two years: the ear-loving Tyson becomes the youngest heavyweight titleholder at 20.

Terence Crawford

Terence Crawford Boxing, theGrio.com
Terence Crawford celebrates his undisputed welterweight boxing championship victory over Errol Spence Jr., Saturday, July 29, 2023, in Las Vegas. (AP Photo/John Locher)

Of course, famous black boxers aren’t only in the heavyweight division. Omaha, Nebraska native Terence Crawford is the just one undisputed in two different weight classes. One particular highlight got here in 2013, following a unanimous decision victory in a 10-round restart over Breidis Prescott. Moving from 135 to 154 kilos, he has now accrued 40 wins and 11 by knockout. He also takes on vital fights outside the ring in order that boxers can receive advantages resembling pensions and insurance.

Gervonta Davis

Gervonta Davis, boxing, theGrio.com
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JUNE 15: WBA lightweight champion Gervonta Davis waits to start her title defense against Frank Martin at the MGM Grand Garden Arena on June 15, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada. Davis defended his title with an eighth-round knockout. (Photo: Steve Marcus/Getty Images) – Source: Photo by Steve Marcus / Getty Images

Baltimore native Gervonta “Tank” Davis is one other outstanding figure amongst black boxers, as he’s a former three-division world champion who is mentored by Floyd Mayweather. With a profession of five world titles, a 29-0 record and earnings of $36 million, the undefeated skilled continues to secure his legacy.

Sugar Ray Robinson

Sugar Ray Robinson, boxing, theGrio.com
July 6, 1951: World welterweight boxing champion Sugar Ray Robinson (1921 – 1989) in training. George Gainford is at ringside. (Photo: Stroud/Express/Getty Images) – Source: Photo Stroud / Getty Images

You know you are a badass when Muhammad Ali proclaims you: “King, champion, my idol.” When the American welterweight boxer became the middleweight titleholder, Robinson compiled a record of 128-1-2, which included 84 knockouts. Despite over 200 matches, he has never suffered a physical knockout. Living in his adopted home of Harlem, New York, he gained popularity as one of the first sports superstars outside the ring.

George Foreman

The Great George Foreman, theGrio.com
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – APRIL 12: George Foreman speaks on stage during the Big George Foreman show at Regal Atlantic Station on April 12, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo: Paras Griffin/Getty Images for Sony Pictures Releasing) – Source: photo by Paras Griffin / Getty Images

Before he created the popular barbecue and named all five of his sons after himself, the Texas native made history as the oldest heavyweight titleholder at the age of 45. His skilled profession began after winning heavyweight gold at the 1968 Olympics, followed by 37 straight victories. After Ali’s knockout and loss to Jimmy Young, it was time to retire and located the Foreman Youth and Community Center in Houston. He also showed that famous black boxers could do greater than just throw punches with their business skills, offering barbecue, books and a clothing line of the same name.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.

Coming from a family of dominant black boxers, Mayweather retired with an ideal record of 50-0 and 27 knockouts. He fought another big names resembling Oscar de la Hoya and Manny Pacquiao. Thanks to such skilled achievements, his image will perpetually hold a special place on the Green and Gold Belts of the World Boxing Council. He later mentored others resembling Gervonta “Tank” Davis while delving into fitness entrepreneurship.

Jack Johnson

JackJohnson, boxing, theGrio.com
Boxing match between Jack Johnson and Jesse Willard in Havana, Cuba – each men sparring in the first round, April 1915. (Photo: Topical Press Agency/Hulton Archive/Getty Images) – Source: Hulton Photo Archive / Getty Images

The son of former slaves, Jack Johnson didn’t hold back when it got here to defying the social norms expected of a black American. He wore furs, married white women, and drove luxury cars, boldly displaying his wealth. At over 200 kilos and over six feet tall, Johnson quickly dominated the sport and won the World Colored Heavyweight title in 1903. His defeat against Tommy Burns in 1908 made him the first black boxer to win the world heavyweight championship. After winning the “Fight of the Century” against James J. Jeffries – which was more of a fight to guard the idea of ​​white supremacy during the Jim Crow era – Johnson stirred much more controversy and have become a goal of the authorities. Fabricated charges of violating the Mann Act (sex trafficking) were later posthumously pardoned.

Errol Spence Jr.

Errol Spence Jr, boxing, theGrio.com
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – JULY 29: Errol Spence Jr. punches Terence Crawford during Round 2 of their World Welterweight Championship fight at T-Mobile Arena on July 29, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo: Al Bello/Getty Images) – Source: photo by Al Bello / Getty Images

Errol lost just one of his 29 matches. The Texas native is the welterweight world champion of the World Boxing Association, the International Boxing Federation and the World Boxing Council. Known for his endurance and excellent footwork, he’s praised for his technique.

Cultural and social effects of black boxers

Boxing isn’t any longer a sport or a form of entertainment. It provided a path out of poverty by serving as a platform to focus on social issues resembling civil rights and poor pension advantages for boxers, while letting the world know that being black didn’t mean being inferior. Some, like Jack Johnson and Joe Louis, broke racial barriers during the era of Jim Crow and legal lynchings. Black champions inspired other black youth with their success, confidence, discipline and exercise plans. Even athletes who have passed away proceed to influence other boxers and their fans.

The lasting legacy of black boxers

Black skilled boxers have a permanent legacy of admirable athletic and social achievements. Louis became a national hero when he defeated Schmeling, and Ali became a civil rights icon who devoted years of his profession to his beliefs. Today, Crawford fights on behalf of the health and safety of all boxers. When Imane Khelif’s gender was questioned at the 2024 Paris Olympics, she persevered on her path to the gold medal. As you possibly can see, these athletes exhibit great physical and mental strength and heart throughout their careers and beyond.

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This article was originally published on : thegrio.com
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An attempt to save the image of Jeff Bezos’ future wife backfired after weeks of outrage and ridicule over her skimpy outfit

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Lauren Sánchez has apparently gained a popularity for her fashion hits and misses as social media users began following her every move.

Billionaire Jeff Bezos’ current fiancée stepped into the highlight long before she met the Amazon co-founder, after years spent as co-host of “Good Day LA,” a reporter for “Extra” and host of “So You Think You Can Dance,” and he even starred in a number of movies like “Ted 2.”

She faced criticism for posting a sultry selfie in November in a negligee-inspired gown by designer Laura Basca. In October, the 54-year-old again faced backlash when she showed off her latex Halloween costume as Catwoman.

Now, weeks after being deemed “cheap” and tasteless, the founder of Black Ops Aviation has turn out to be a subject of discussion.

Jeff Bezos’ fiancée Lauren Sánchez shows off a “winter white” look, weeks after critics slammed her busty latex outfit. (Photos: @laurenwsanchez/Instagram, Theimagedirect.com via Page Six)

On December 5, Sánchez and the business mogul attended The New York Times’ DealBook event in New York City. For the occasion, she wore a white Alexander McQueen suit and a white lace corset. The beaming bride-to-be sent two mirror selfies of her outfit, which she signed: “winter white.”

One follower particularly was stunned by the whole look he ejaculated that she was “very attractive and beautiful, gorgeous and stunning, charming and fantastic young lady, sexy, charming, charming and elegant” in the photos that Sánchez took.

Two other people swooned over the photos and wrote: “So chic and elegant!” and “You look great.” But as you would possibly expect from online viewers, not everyone was impressed.

When Page six published paparazzi photos from the trip, the critic commented: “It’s 30 degrees in New York and she gets out of the limo in a white Miami smock, her bra visible to everyone. No taste. Nothing. A cashmere turtleneck, flannel trousers and a wool jacket can be classy.

Someone else sharply asked: “Who can be the first to tell her that she looks tacky and not elegant and refined? Does she even know what sophistication means? A 3rd person noted: “She looks more like she’s wearing a bathrobe.”

Another person wrote in a comment from a licensed pilot: “White means…” possibly referring to rumors that Sánchez and Bezos are scheduled to exchange vows over Christmas. At least one person doubted the couple would have the opportunity to say “I do.” This person said: “This will be the longest engagement ever. They will NEVER get married and we all know why!!!!”

Sánchez told the “Today” show hosts that she was in the process of planning the big day last month. She didn’t comment on speculation about exchanging Christmas vows.

Renewed interest and scrutiny of Sánchez has increased as the pair have been spotted in various locations in recent months. The couple reportedly began dating in 2018. Their engagement was announced five years later, in May 2023. Their upcoming wedding can be a second journey for each of them.

Sánchez was previously married to celebrity agent Patric Whitesell, with whom she has two children. She can be the mother of a son, whom she shares with Pro Football Hall of Famer Tony Gonzalez. Bezos was married to the mother of his three children, Mackenzie Scott, for 25 years once they divorced in 2019.


This article was originally published on : atlantablackstar.com
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Apart from the song with singer-songwriter India Shawn – Andscape

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India Shawn is a contemporary muse with a chilled nature, crafting love stories and heartfelt tales in smooth, charming songs. With over a decade of experience in the music industry as a singer-songwriter, Shawn has incredible strength. She was born in Los Angeles, and her musical roots reach throughout the country. Beginning her profession in her hometown, Shawn eventually found herself in Atlanta, where she immersed herself in the city’s deep-rooted R&B scene, further shaping her artistry.

“I transferred to ATL, I was in 10th grade, and that’s when my music journey really started,” Shawn told Andscape. “I met people who were trying to get by, so I ended up recording and learned what songwriting was really early on.”

Before releasing her debut EP in 2012, Shawn wrote songs and collaborated with artists similar to Chris Brown, El DeBarge, Keri Hilson and Monica. In 2013, she gained much more notoriety when Solange Knowles published her song “I’m Alive” on the Saint Heron compilationmarking her as an artist value watching.

Following the release of the single “There Must Be a God” from the Andscape soundtrack, she caught up with Shawn to learn more about the muse behind the vibes.


Singer India Shawn grew up singing in church with her family. “I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” she said.

India Shawn

Name:
India Shawn

Hometown:

Los Angeles

Artistic soundscape

Airy, soft, telling a story, multidimensional, soft, mysterious, atmospheric

The oldest musical memory

Shawn’s soulful sound is deeply rooted in her upbringing, with influences drawn from her childhood memories and the musical culture of her church. “I sing with my sister all the time, and I also grew up singing behind my mom in church. She was the leader of praise and worship. So I feel like most of us R&B kids have that experience,” Shawn said. “I had these little solos in church, and I believe what made me consider in it was that after the service people got here as much as me with tears of their eyes and said, ‘You really moved me while you sang.’ “These early moments of connection with music and audiences laid the foundation for conveying depth and sensitivity through her music.

Influences

For Shawn, music, especially R&B, has all the time held a special place in her life. “Me and my sister are harmonizing in the living room, just picking some of our favorite songs, including for me Mariah Carey, Babyface, Boyz II Men and (and) Brandy,” she said of her early music memories.

Creative process

Shawn often draws inspiration from real-life experiences and relationships that influence her music. She weaves this into the authenticity and atmosphere of her songs, but she didn’t immediately recognize where her inspiration got here from. “It’s funny that it took me so long to make that connection, but I realized that I was telling my whole story and presenting my business through my music,” she said. “It took me two albums to realize, wait a minute, I’m giving people a lot to understand here… these aren’t just songs. This is truly the life I live.”

Challenges and development

As Shawn’s profession grows, so do his moments of appreciation and reflection. “I literally just thought about a very gradual progression of my career. It’s like step by step, but there are more breakthrough moments. My first tour, which was so beautiful, I just knew I could pack a room and people knew my lyrics and sang my songs to me. Those moments that make the waiting not in vain.”

Shawn has plenty of recommendation for up-and-coming singer-songwriters. Her biggest sacrifice? Collaboration is essential. “I think (cooperation) is really why I’m still here. So find your people… you’ll know when it feels right, you’ll have that freedom and fluidity, and you’ll be able to really create things and create without having to think too much.” He also shares the importance of patience. “Just be patient during the journey. This has been a theme throughout my profession. Let it develop. I feel like more things come from being in that flow and being present reasonably than forcing all of it.

Current project

There should be a God”, the lead single from Andscape , now streaming on Hulu, also serves as a teaser for Shawn’s solo album. “(This song) is such a manifestation of God’s love,” she said. “I think when you find yourself in a place of waiting, you can feel very hopeless. So when you see glimpses of God’s love again, or the fact that you know there is a higher power, there is a source that is thinking about you, has you in mind, has a perfect plan for you, it’s just like the clouds parting. And this is the moment, I understand. I understand that I had to go through all this to get here. And that’s exactly what I felt in the studio that day.”

Sheila Matthews is a digital producer at Andscape and a proud HBCU graduate. She believes “Return of the Mack” must have won a Grammy, and her Twitter mentions are open to all debate.

This article was originally published on : andscape.com
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ICYMI: Tessa Thompson’s Mocha Lip, Danielle Brooks’ Updo and More – Essence

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With just a number of weeks left until the tip of 2024, the celebrities are setting the tone for the brand new 12 months this week. And although mocha mousse is anticipated to be fashionable in 2025, neutral shades in darker tones have gotten more and more popular. Paired with an array of beauty eras – from elegant Twenties updos to 2000s-style round pink, the brand new Hollywood showcases its best 12 months-end beauty moments.

Tessa Thompson and Issa Rae are the newest to debut mocha lips holiday shade near the season, and Coco Jones’ lipstick was cranberry red. Doechii’s perforated suggestions and signature face-lift tape made it probably the most avant-garde look of the week, and within the sweetest moment, Chloe and Halle Bailey’s round pink cheeks made pink cheeks a winter styling staple.

From makeup to hairstyles, Sabrina Elba and Alva Claire opted for light, coffee colours, and Jourdan Dunn’s short hairstyle proved relevant at any time of the 12 months. Meanwhile, Lupita N’yongo, Danielle Brooks and Venus Williams’ braided buns showed just how classic this style may be.

In case you missed it, take a take a look at 17 of the very best celebrity beauty moments from the week below.

This article was originally published on : www.essence.com
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