Big Baby Davis: The Gentle Giant of Boxing
In the annals of boxing history, few fighters have commanded as much respect and admiration as Earnie "Big Baby" Davis. Standing at an imposing 6’5" and weighing over 250 pounds, Davis was a physical specimen who dominated the heavyweight division during the early 20th century. Despite his formidable size and power, Davis was known for his gentle nature and sportsmanship, earning him the moniker "The Gentle Giant."
Early Life and Career
Earnie Davis was born on August 2, 1887, in Georgetown, South Carolina. As a child, he displayed extraordinary strength and athleticism, excelling in both football and track and field. However, it was in boxing that Davis truly found his calling.
In 1909, Davis made his professional boxing debut at the age of 22. Despite his lack of formal training, he quickly rose through the ranks with his devastating knockout power and exceptional size. By 1911, he had captured the New York State Heavyweight Championship, establishing himself as a force to be reckoned with.
Dominance in the Heavyweight Division
Over the next several years, Davis continued to dominate the heavyweight division. He defeated some of the era’s top fighters, including Sam Langford, Harry Wills, and Billy Miske. In 1914, he faced off against the legendary Jack Johnson for the World Heavyweight Championship. Although Davis lost the bout by decision, he gave Johnson a formidable challenge and earned the respect of the boxing world.
Gentle Giant
Despite his imposing physique and fearsome reputation in the ring, Davis was known for his gentle and compassionate nature outside of it. He was a devout Christian who often visited hospitals and orphanages, bringing joy to those in need. Davis also had a deep love for children and was known to play with them in the streets of New York City.
Later Career and Legacy
As Davis’s career progressed, he began to experience health problems related to his massive size. In 1921, he retired from boxing at the age of 34. However, he remained active in the sport as a trainer and promoter.
Davis’s legacy as a boxer is undeniable. He was one of the most dominant heavyweights of his era, known for his exceptional size, power, and sportsmanship. But beyond his boxing achievements, Davis is remembered as a gentle giant who used his platform to spread kindness and compassion.
Physical Attributes and Fighting Style
Earnie Davis possessed an extraordinary physical presence. At 6’5" and over 250 pounds, he was one of the largest heavyweights in boxing history. His massive frame gave him an advantage in reach and power, but he also possessed surprising agility and speed for his size.
Davis’s fighting style was characterized by his devastating knockout power. He had a thunderous right hand that could end a fight with a single blow. However, he was also a skilled boxer who could outmaneuver his opponents with his jab and footwork.
Notable Fights
Throughout his career, Davis engaged in several memorable fights that cemented his status as a boxing legend.
- Earnie Davis vs. Sam Langford (1911): Davis defeated the legendary Langford in a 10-round decision, establishing himself as a contender for the heavyweight championship.
- Earnie Davis vs. Harry Wills (1913): Davis knocked out Wills in the 12th round, winning the New York State Heavyweight Championship.
- Earnie Davis vs. Jack Johnson (1914): Davis challenged Johnson for the World Heavyweight Championship but lost by decision in a close and competitive bout.
- Earnie Davis vs. Billy Miske (1915): Davis knocked out Miske in the 10th round, retaining his New York State Heavyweight Championship.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
Outside of the ring, Davis was a devoted family man and a generous philanthropist. He married his wife, Mary, in 1912, and they had two children together. Davis was also a devout Christian who regularly attended church and donated to various charities.
Davis was known for his kindness and compassion, especially towards children. He often visited hospitals and orphanages, bringing joy to those in need. He also had a deep love for animals and was known to rescue stray dogs and cats.
Later Years and Death
As Davis’s career progressed, he began to experience health problems related to his massive size. He retired from boxing in 1921 and spent his later years as a trainer and promoter.
Davis passed away on February 12, 1934, at the age of 46. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990, a testament to his exceptional boxing achievements and his enduring legacy as a gentle giant.
Conclusion
Earnie "Big Baby" Davis was a true pioneer in the heavyweight division. His exceptional size, power, and sportsmanship made him one of the most dominant fighters of his era. But beyond his boxing accomplishments, Davis is remembered as a gentle giant who used his platform to spread kindness and compassion. His legacy as a boxer and a humanitarian continues to inspire generations of athletes and fans alike.