LOUIS, JOE-JERSEY JOE WALCOTT "HE CAN RUN BUT HE CAN'T HIDE" SOUVENIR PENNANT (1948)

Joe Louis fought Billy Conn in 1941 and nearly lost his heavyweight title. Conn out boxed Louis for 12 rounds, but chose to mix it up in the 13th and was knocked out by Louis. In 1946, after World War II the two engaged in a rematch. Remembering how close Louis had come to losing his Championship to Conn in 1941, boxing writers asked Louis how he would contend with the fast and cunning Conn. The Champion is said to have replied: "He can run, but he can't hide." Joe Louis was correct. That expression stuck to Joe Louis and is the verbiage on this incredibly rare pennant made for Louis' second fight with Jersey Joe Walcott in 1948. On June 25, 1948 World Heavyweight Champion Joe Louis defended his title against Jersey Joe Walcott at Yankee Stadium in New York. These two had fought six months earlier and although Louis had retained his title by 15 round decision most observers, including Louis, thought Walcott had won. This was the rematch and this time Louis took care of all doubts stopping Walcott in eleven rounds.
This is an original souvenir deep burgundy felt pennant with white lettering, "YOU CAN RUN-JOE LOUIS BOOSTER BUT YOU CAN'T HIDE! JUNE 1948." A menacing Louis is illustrated chasing Walcott who is on a bicycle. Bold color and a bold, clear image. Has the original two black flares at the left end. There are some small moth holes and tack holes, none of which really affects the beauty of this rarity. Some soiling and creasing. 28" long. Rare, the first we have seen.