Greater Washington
Jewish Sports Hall of Fame

Natie Brown

Natie Brown

Sport: Boxing
Category: Athlete
Primary Team: null
Year Inducted: 2008

Brown began his professional career as a Heavyweight Prizefighter in 1928 and fought future World Champion Max Baer to a six round no-decision bout in 1929. As Max Schmeling’s sparring partner in 1931, Natie was released from camp after twice knocking down the future World-Champion. In 1935, he fought Joe Louis to a 10 round decision loss. In 1937 the two met again in K.C. Missouri. This fight is believed to be the first interracial athletic event in Missouri history. Natie is one of only 14 men to go the distance with Louis. Nate defended such grates as Tony Galento, Marty Gallagher, Don “Red” Barry and Marty Fox. In 1934, Natie was ranked 7th in the world. His record was 56 W (21 K.O.‘s), 17 L, 9 Draws and 2 Non-Decisions.