Cooper KO’s Johnson in England

Apr. 20, 1965 - Henry Cooper, British and Empire heavyweight champion, took just 2:34 to knock out American Chip Johnson at Wolverhampton, England, tonight. It was that rarity in boxing — the clean, one-punch, no-arguments victory.

Johnson crashed to the canvas as Cooper’s left hook, perhaps the best in the world, slammed into his carelessly unguarded jaw.

The American’s legs were twitching uncontrollably, and he was unconscious. Yes somehow, the count managed to get through to his fuddled brain. He tried to force himself erect as the count reached nine — only to pitch forward helplessly into the referee’s arm. He was guided back to his corner a shattered man.

This was a revenge win of sorts for Cooper. It was Johnson who ended the career of Henry’s brother Jim last November. Jim decided to retire after Johnson had stopped him inside the distance.

If one punch can serve as a whole promotion, Cooper’s left hook did that tonight.

He is due defend his titles against local favorite Johnny Prescott at Birmingham in June, and Midland fans, slow to buy tickets so far, were waiting for reassurance that Cooper is still a power in world boxing.

He has never provided more convincing proof.

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