GRIFFIN, CORN ORIGINAL WIRE PHOTO (1936)

John Charles "Corn" Griffin, (July 24, 1911 – January 9, 1973) was an American heavyweight boxer whose career lasted from 1930 to 1936 and included the memorable June 14, 1934 TKO loss to James J. Braddock, recreated for the 2005 film Cinderella Man. A native of Florida, Griffin was born in Blountstown, a small community which is the county seat of Calhoun County. After winning his first fight, a 1930 bout with Charles "Ranger" Pond, he turned professional in 1931 with much promise, but was KO'd by Bob Godwin in 1933. The heavily publicized fight with Braddock in Madison Square Garden the following year was the highlight of his career. During his professional career he also served as a sparring partner for former world heavyweight boxing champion Primo Carnera and, following his final bout, a 1936 Fourth of July loss to Barney Brock, left the ring, working in a number of jobs and serving in the army during World War II. After the war, Griffin became a police officer in Columbus, Georgia. According to the August 25, 1950 issue of the Panama City News-Herald, he didn't carry the traditional policeman's club "since his old one-two sledgehammer-like fists are as good as ever, but may be not as fast". Offered here is an original wire photo of Corn Griffin taken on February 5, 1936, two days before his loss by one round knockout at the hands of Red Burman.
This is an original wire photo with the newspaper caption on the reverse. Bold, clear image. Not creased or torn. Minor edge, corner and surface wear. An exceptionally rare image of an important heavyweight contender in the early 1930's. 5 1/2" x 8 1/2."