Of the men Louis faced, who were the ones with the strongest chins and really highlighted his punching power?
Billy Conn hasn't been mentioned yet, tremendous chin on him. Particularly in the second round of their first match, Conn showed great durability, especially in the body. Joe hit him with punches that should have doubled him over. Louis was the only one to knock him out. Take note of how many right hands to the side Conn took in that round (2:50) This content is protected Abe Simon showed a monstrous chin for such a hittable man and although he was saved by the bell multiple times in their rematch he was never unconscious despite cleanly taking Louis' best. He also lasted 13 rounds against Louis the first time around and got up from multiple knockdowns. John Henry Lewis wasn't knocked out in 116 fights until he fought Louis who took him out in one round, his only knockout loss. Other very durable fighters that haven't already been mentioned: Walcott Pastor Galento Schmeling
Uzcudun, Galento, Godoy, Conn, Baer…all could take a hell of a shot or beating. Even guys like Carnera & the pain-absentia Simon were teak-tough at times. Godoy’s face after his rematch with Louis is nightmare fuel.
Godoy's face after both times Louis was through with him is nightmare fuel. (23:08) This content is protected
He lost to him when well past prime, so the opponent in question didn’t taste Louis’ true prime power - but technically, you can also throw in Marciano, I guess.
Louis’ short power punching in the Godoy rematch was a sight to behold - the sheer force literally had Godoy dancing, punches levering him up on his toes, shifting him this way and that. Godoy was the puppet. Louis the puppeteer. No strings attached.
Uzcudins is probably the best. Whenever you see a top fighter who isn't really that guy but whose chin is made of titanium you instantly think of Uzcudin
