Orson Smith

BOXING

Born on January 11, 1992 in Ailey, Georgia

The only boxer to hold the world title across four decades and two world wars. In 1912, he claimed the welterweight world championship. In 1918, he fought in the Great War and was severely wounded in combat. In 1924 he returned to the ring and went on to win the middleweight championship in 1929, a title he would retain until 1932. After a decade in decline, he volunteered to avenge the heroes of Pearl Harbor. Upon his return, he won the heavyweight championship at age 52. A miraculous comeback that was cut short when he died of a heart attack two days later. "A true inspiration to us al", in words of his friend, football star Tim Thorpe.