This Day in Georgia History
January 12, 1951
Ezzard Charles Knocked Out Oma
Ezzard Charles knocked out Lee Oma to retain the world heavyweight boxing championship. Born July 7, 1921 in Lawrenceville, Ga., Charles became heavyweight champion in September 1950 by defeating Joe Louis on points in 15 rounds. He lost the title to Jersey Joe Walcott in a 7-round knockout in 1951. Charles died May 28, 1975. Four years later, on July 7, 1979, the Lawrenceville Jaycees dedicated a granite monument to Charles on the grounds of the old Gwinnett County courthouse in Lawrenceville.
