SN 140 Moments: No. 56 - Joe Louis floors Max Schmeling at Yankee Stadium with 100 million listening

In 1936, Max Schmeling handed Joe Louis his first professional loss. Louis returned to form following the loss, winning 11 straight, including heavyweight gold. A rematch would take place in 1938, with politics overtaking boxing.

The fight had international tensions since Schmeling, a German, was around during the rise of the Nazi party and would face Louis, who was Black. It became one of the most anticipated boxing matches, with all eyes on the fight at Yankee Stadium.

Unlike the first fight, where Louis appeared to show little effort, he came out swinging. An estimated 100 million listened to the radio broadcast. The fight only lasted one round, with Louis punishing Schmeling. Louis would be considered an American sports hero after the win.