The African American who became the world heavyweight boxing champion in 1908 was Jack Johnson. He was the first Black man to hold the heavyweight title, which he won by defeating Tommy Burns. Johnson's victory was significant not only in sports but also in the context of racial tensions in America during that era, as he challenged prevailing social norms and stereotypes. His reign as champion was marked by both his boxing prowess and his controversial persona, making him a polarizing figure in American history.
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