1940'S

Custom black satin trunks with red trim have "JL" embroidered on the front in Swiss chain stitch. "Everlast" tag on the waistband has "Made Expressly For Joe Louis" text along the bottom. They were long part of the personal collection of famed trainer Mannie Seamon who worked with many prominent boxers throughout his career including Leach Cross, Benny Leonard, and Primo Carnera. He accepted an assistant trainers' position working with Joe Louis in 1937 and in 1942 was named head trainer. He would remain with Louis until his final fight against Rocky Marciano in October of 1951. The offered trunks are of a design which matches those Louis wore in several prominent fights during the 1940s with note to the red waistband and trim along with the style of Everlast tag and embroidery. It is the opinion of noted boxing expert Craig Hamilton that Louis most likely used these trunks in his first fight with Jersey Joe Walcott on 5 December 1947. It was Louis' 24th defense of his World Heavyweight Championship title and he won by split decision after 15 rounds. Appropriate use and wash wear are evident throughout. Includes LOA from Craig Hamilton/JO Sports: EX