James J. Braddock

Profession: Boxer

Nationality:

Biography: James J. Braddock, also known as the "Cinderella Man," was an American heavyweight boxer who gained widespread fame and admiration during the Great Depression for his rags-to-riches story.

Braddock was originally a light heavyweight contender but had to give up boxing due to a series of losses compounded by injuries. He even worked as a longshoreman to make ends meet during the hardest years of the Depression.

After winning a series of underdog victories, however, Braddock made an astonishing comeback in the heavyweight division that eventually led him to a title fight against the reigning champion, Max Baer, in 1935. Against all odds, Braddock outboxed Baer to win a unanimous decision, becoming the heavyweight champion of the world.

Beyond his boxing exploits, Braddock served in the U.S. Army during World War II, during which time he trained American soldiers in hand-to-hand combat, after which he retired from boxing and worked in supplying heavy machinery for marine construction.

Braddock's life story was popularized in the 2005 film "Cinderella Man," in which he was played by Russell Crowe.

Born: December 6, 1905
Birthplace: New York City, New York, USA

Generation: Greatest Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Snake
Star Sign: Sagittarius

Died: November 29, 1974 (aged 68)