Jack Dempsey

Dempsey, Jack (William Harrison Dempsey; 1895–1983), U.S. boxer. He won the world heavyweight championship from Jess Willard in 1919 and held it until 1926, when he lost a decision to Gene Tunney. Dempsey's loss to Tunney in the 1927 rematch was known for the “long count” in the 7th round. Dempsey knocked Tunney down but refused to go to a neutral corner, thus delaying the start of the referee's count. Tunney, actually down for more than the normal 10 count, got up at the count of 9 and went on to win by decision.