James J. Braddock
Braddock in 1935 | |
| Personal information | |
|---|---|
Nickname(s) | Bulldog of Bergen Jersey Jim Pride of the Irish Pride of New Jersey Cinderella Man |
| Born | James Polly Braddock June 7, 1905 New York City, U.S. |
| Died | November 29, 1974 (aged 69) North Bergen, New Jersey, U.S. |
| Height | 6 ft 2 in (1.88 m) |
| Weight | Middleweight Light heavyweight Heavyweight |
| Boxing career | |
| Reach | 75 in (191 cm) |
| Boxing record | |
| Total fights | 88 |
| Wins | 52 |
| Win by KO | 27 |
| Losses | 26 |
| Draws | 7 |
| No contests | 3 |
James Walter Braddock (June 7, 1905 – November 29, 1974) was an American boxer who was the world heavyweight champion from 1935 to 1937.
Fighting under the name James J. Braddock (ostensibly to follow the pattern set by two prior world boxing champions, James J. Corbett and James J. Jeffries), Braddock was known for his spoiling, counterpunching style, powerful right hand, and iron chin. He lost several bouts because of chronic hand injuries and was forced to work on the docks and collect social assistance to feed his family during the Great Depression. He made a comeback, and in 1935 he fought Max Baer for the world heavyweight championship and won. For this unlikely feat he was given the nickname "Cinderella Man" by Damon Runyon. Braddock was managed by Joe Gould.