Why did Jack Johnson agree to a 45rdr with Willard?

I think he was desperate for the money and under rated Willard.

 

After the fight he told Curley the next morning, when he went to collect his money,[its a myth that it was handed to his wife at ringside].I didn't think anyone could stay with me if I really went after them.Johnson overestimated what he had left and underestimated what the, trained to the minute Willard could absorb in the way of punishment. Willard knocked out a couple of Johnson's gold teeth,which Johnson swallowed, rather than let the crowd see the damage.

 

This to me says it all, thanks Mc. He was over confident and wasn't thinking. IDK for sure but if he was gunning for a ko, he probably exerted too much energy in trying to do so.

 

After the first 18 rds he began to blow ,and must have known he couldn't win because he couldn't stop Willard and he had no chance of lasting the 45 rds.I think he put up a very brave fight.

 

Man, I am such a fan of Jack Johnson, but boxing is always more than a bit of rock, paper, scissors.

Willard had what was needed to win that fight:durability.

I remember reading in this corner, becoming a Gunboat Smith fan, where he talked about landing his best punch and seeing Willard's hair move a little bit.

Of course I'd love to have seen a 20 round Willard vs. Johnson rematch...but we know that wasn't gonna happen.

 

Yes he had durability and size and strength, meeting him for the first time Johnson looked up and said to Curley ,"if these White Hopes get any bigger,I'll have to start wearing stilts!"

 

Lol.

God bless, and Obama pardon, that man.

 

I'm with you on that.:good