Most consecutive boxing world heavyweight title defences

The most consecutive boxing world heavyweight title defences is 25 and was achieved by Joe Louis (USA) from 30 August 1937 to 25 June 1948.

Louis captured the Heavyweight title in June 1937 by knocking out James Braddock in the eighth round. His first defence was two months later at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, where he fought 15 rounds against British contender Tommy Farr – winning by unanimous decision. That fight was named 1937 Fight of the Year by The Ring magazine.

In 1938, he got his revenge against German rival Max Schemling, who had knocked out Louis two years previously, in what was proclaimed "Fight of the Decade". He knocked out his opponent in the first round.

Louis' 25th and final defence of his heavyweight title was the 1948 rematch against Jersey Joe Walcott, and he announced his retirement afterwards.

In 1950, he went for the world title once again but suffered what was only the second loss of his career to Charles Ezzard on points.

Joe Louis has the most defences and the longest reign of any professional boxer in any weight division.