Subsequent Bouts
Marciano won three more knockouts in a row before a rematch with Lowry (61–56–10). Marciano again won by unanimous decision. After that, he won four more by knockout, and, after a decision win over Red Applegate (11–14–2) late April 1951, he was showcased on national television for the first time, when he knocked out Rex Layne (34–1–2) in six rounds on July 12, 1951.
On Oct. 27, 1951, the 28-year-old, Marciano, took on the 37-year-old Joe Louis. Coming into the bout, Marciano was 6½ to 5 underdog. Marciano upset Louis in what was the latter's last career bout. The result left Marciano with mixed emotions, as Louis had been his childhood idol.
After four more wins, including victories over 35 year old Lee Savold (96–37–3) and Harry Matthews (81–3–5), Marciano got his shot at the title.
Read more about this topic: Rocky Marciano
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