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Blackfeet Boxing NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Star Profile

NDN All-Star #24 Joe “The Boss” Hipp

NDN All-Star #24 Joe Hipp (Blackfeet)

If you followed heavyweight boxing in the 1990s like I did, you knew NDN All-Star #24 Joe Hipp (Blackfeet) was the kind of fighter you couldn’t ignore. He wasn’t the most talked-about name, and he didn’t have the hype machine behind him, but he had something far more important—grit, power, and an ability to go toe-to-toe with some of the toughest fighters of his era. Over the course of a career that spanned nearly two decades, Hipp left his mark on the sport, proving time and again that he was as tough as they come.

The Making of a Fighter

Joe Hipp’s journey to the ring started far from the glitz and glamour of boxing’s biggest stages. Born in Browning, Montana, and a proud member of the Blackfeet Nation, Hipp’s path wasn’t paved with easy opportunities. He didn’t come from a famous boxing lineage, and he didn’t have the early backing that many of his peers did. What he did have was an undeniable will to fight and the kind of work ethic that made him dangerous from the start.

Hipp turned pro in 1987, grinding his way through the regional boxing scene and making a name for himself as a relentless competitor. He wasn’t flashy, but he didn’t need to be. He was a fighter in the purest sense, taking on all comers and proving himself the hard way—through action, not words.

Climbing the Ranks

From the late 1980s into the early 1990s, Hipp built an impressive record, facing some of the toughest fighters of his generation. He didn’t always get the easy fights, and he didn’t always get the benefit of the doubt from boxing promoters, but he let his fists do the talking.

One of his most memorable early fights came in 1992 against NDN All-Star #39 Tommy Morrison (Ponca/Otoe), a rising star in the heavyweight division. The fight was a brutal back-and-forth war, the kind that fans still talk about. Hipp took Morrison to his limit, battering him with relentless pressure. He had Morrison hurt multiple times, and for a moment, it looked like he might pull off the upset. But Morrison, known for his knockout power, managed to rally and stop Hipp in the ninth round. It was a loss, but it was the kind that earned Hipp respect. He had given Morrison everything he could handle, proving he could stand with the best in the division. (You can see more about this fight here..)

The Heavyweight Contender

By the mid-90s, Hipp had fought his way into legitimate title contention. He was never handed easy fights, and he had the scars to show for it. He fought through injuries, setbacks, and the politics of the boxing world to earn his shot at the WBA heavyweight title in 1995 against Bruce Seldon. This became the first time a Native American fighter challenged for the World Heavyweight Championship. Though he came up short, suffering a TKO loss due to severe facial injuries, his performance once again showcased the heart and determination that defined his career. (You can see this historic bout here…)

But his career didn’t end there. Unlike many fighters who fade away after a title shot loss, Hipp kept grinding. He knew he still had fights left in him, and he proved it in 1999 when he captured the WBF heavyweight title. It might not have been one of the sport’s major world championships, but it was a testament to his longevity and refusal to give up on his goals.

A Fighter’s Fighter

Joe Hipp wasn’t the kind of heavyweight who relied on highlight-reel knockouts or flashy soundbites to make his name. He was a throwback—a fighter who showed up, put in the work, and never backed down from a challenge. Over the course of his career, he faced a long list of dangerous opponents, always willing to take on tough fights where others might have looked for easier paths.

His ability to absorb punishment and keep coming forward made him a fan favorite. He didn’t have the chiseled physique of some of his opponents, but once the bell rang, none of that mattered. He was relentless, durable, and always willing to leave everything in the ring. His record, filled with wars against top-tier heavyweights, speaks for itself.

The Legacy of Joe Hipp

When you talk about great Native American athletes, Joe Hipp’s name belongs in the discussion. He wasn’t just a skilled boxer—he was a pioneer. As the first Native American to fight for a world heavyweight title, he opened doors for others and showed that a fighter from a reservation could make it to the top of the sport. (You can see his complete professional boxing record here…)

After hanging up his gloves, Hipp remained involved in boxing, mentoring young fighters and giving back to his community. He understood the struggles of those trying to make it in a sport that isn’t always fair, and he made it a point to help guide the next generation.

Hipp’s career wasn’t built on hype or shortcuts. It was built on toughness, perseverance, and an unshakable belief in himself. He wasn’t just a contender—he was a warrior, a fighter who proved that heart and determination could take you to the highest levels of the sport.

NDN All-Star #24 Joe Hipp may not have held the biggest titles, but he earned something just as valuable: respect. And in the fight game, that’s everything.


 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.


#NDNAllstars #JoeHipp #Blackfeet #boxing #heavyweight #WBFWorldChampion


If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

 

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Boxing Cherokee NDN All-Star Info Video Archeology

Video Archeology – “Dempsey”

NDN All-Stars "Video Archeology" Movie Of The Week graphic

The 1983 movie “Dempsey”, with Treat Williams playing boxing legend NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee), is an exciting look into the world of 1920s boxing. Watching this film feels like stepping back into a time when boxing was raw and tough, and so were the fighters. Jack Dempsey had a rough life and had to work hard to make a name for himself. This movie really brings his story to life.

From the start, Treat Williams totally nails the role. He makes Dempsey look like a fighter who’s hungry to win and willing to push through anything to get there. The story opens with Dempsey fighting in small mining towns, where the fights were rough and not always fair. The smoky arenas, loud crowds, and scrappy fighters make it easy to feel the atmosphere of those early days.

“Dempsey” doesn’t just show us the boxer; it shows us the man. The movie dives into Dempsey’s struggles, both in and out of the ring. We see his relationship with his wife, Estelle Taylor, played by Sally Kellerman. Their marriage is rocky, which makes sense when you think about how intense his career was. The movie keeps the focus on boxing but gives us just enough of his personal life to show that it wasn’t easy for Dempsey to balance love and fame.

The best part of the movie is definitely the boxing scenes. Even though it’s a TV movie, the fights are intense and realistic. You can tell Treat Williams put a lot into these scenes, making them feel brutal and authentic. One standout moment is Dempsey’s famous fight with Jess Willard, known as “The Fight of the Century.” The movie shows this fight in all its hard-hitting detail, with every punch feeling intense. It’s clear that Dempsey wasn’t just about skill; he fought with everything he had, pushing through pain to come out on top.

Williams plays Dempsey as a tough, determined guy who fights like he has nothing to lose. The nickname “Manassa Mauler” fits him perfectly—he’s fierce and relentless in the ring. But Williams doesn’t make him look like a flawless hero; instead, he’s a regular guy who faced tough times and worked his way up. He fought hard, and you can see that in every scene.

One thing I wish the movie had done better is cover some important moments in Dempsey’s life. For instance, Dempsey’s choice not to serve in World War I made a lot of people upset back then. The film mentions it, but it doesn’t dig deep into how that choice affected him and his reputation. Some of the struggles he had after his boxing career are also just briefly mentioned, leaving some questions unanswered.

Even with these small flaws, “Dempsey” is a solid and interesting movie, especially for a TV production. It shows the highs and lows of an American sports hero. By the end, you see Dempsey as more than just a fighter—you see him as someone who pushed through a tough life to achieve greatness in a tough sport.

If you’re into sports movies or boxing history, “Dempsey” is definitely worth checking out. Treat Williams really brings NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey to life, making him seem like a real, relatable person. This movie may not be as polished as a big-budget film, but it’s perfect for a story about an underdog like Dempsey. If you want to know what it was like to be a champion back in the early 1900s, this movie gives a great look at the life of one of boxing’s biggest legends.

Leave us a comment and let us know what you think of “Dempsey”, the movie and the man.

 


 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.


#NDNAllstars #Cherokee #JackDempsey #VideoArcheology #boxing


If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

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Boxing Cherokee NDN All-Stars Firsts

NDN All-Stars “FIRSTS!” – The CHAMP!

NDN All-Stars "FIRSTS" Jack Dempsey

When you think of boxing greats, NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) definitely comes to mind. Born on June 24, 1895, in Colorado, Jack Dempsey’s path to becoming one of the most revered heavyweight champions of all time was quite a journey.

Dempsey’s rise in the boxing world was nothing short of spectacular, marked by thrilling fights and monumental victories. Known for his aggressive fighting style and knockout power, he earned the nickname “The Manassa Mauler.” In 1919, Dempsey reached the pinnacle of his career by defeating reigning champion Jess Willard in a match that lasted less than four rounds. This win solidified Dempsey’s status as the first Native American heavyweight Champion of the World and catapulted him into the spotlight of boxing fame.

But Dempsey’s impact extended beyond the ring. His fights were not just boxing matches; they were cultural events that drew huge crowds and set box office records. His rivalry with Gene Tunney, culminating in the famous “Long Count” rematch in 1927, remains one of the most talked-about moments in boxing history.

While Dempsey’s legacy as a pioneer for Native Americans in sports is significant, his influence is even greater. He inspired athletes of all backgrounds to be their best. No less than “Iron” Mike Tyson counted Dempsey as his boxing hero!

Dempsey’s story is a reminder that true champions are not just defined by their victories but also by the lasting impression they leave on the world.

Looking back on his incredible career, NDN All-Stars celebrates not only his athletic prowess and skills but also the lasting impact he had on the sport of boxing. The legacy of NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey inspires generations of athletes of all backgrounds to strive for greatness, reminding us that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible, no matter how humble your beginnings.


 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.


#ndnallstars #jackdempsey #boxing #heavyweightchampion #cherokee #FIRSTS


If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

 

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Boxing Iroquois NDN All-Star Info Video Archeology

Video Archeology – NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong in “Keep Punching”

NDN All-Stars "Video Archeology" Movie Of The Week graphic

Today’s installment of Video Archeology is a bit different.  It’s not a biography, or a game or a retrospective.  Today, I have a gem for you – a movie starring one of our NDN All-Stars!

If you’re looking for an old-school boxing movie that’s a bit off the beaten path, “Keep Punching” (1939) is one you should check out. It stars NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong (Iroquois), a real boxing legend from the era, and follows the story of a young boxer, Dave, who fights his way from humble beginnings to the top. The plot may seem familiar—it’s a classic underdog story—but what makes it special is the time period and Armstrong’s presence.

The film gives us a glimpse into what it was like for minority athletes during the 1930s. Armstrong’s own history as a trailblazing fighter, combined with his portrayal of Dave, gives the movie a sense of authenticity that feels rare for the time. The boxing scenes, although not as polished as what you’d see today, have a raw energy to them because of Armstrong’s real-life skills in the ring.

The characters around Dave—his trainer and fellow fighters—create a solid sense of community and camaraderie, which adds to the emotional weight of the story. You really feel like you’re rooting for Dave, not just because he’s good in the ring but because he has people who believe in him.

Sure, the dialogue might come off as a little corny to a modern audience, and the production quality is far from today’s standards, but that’s part of what makes “Keep Punching” an interesting watch. It’s a window into a different time, with a simplicity that makes you appreciate the journey these characters go through. And the fact that it stars a real-life sports hero gives it an edge that many other films don’t have.

Overall, I’d recommend “Keep Punching” if you’re a fan of boxing films or of NDN All-Star #32 Henry Armstrong. It’s a little rough around the edges, but it’s got heart, and Armstrong’s presence makes it more than just another boxing movie. Plus, it’s a reminder of how hard some people had to fight—not just in the ring, but in life.

 


 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.


#NDNAllstars #VideoArcheology #NativeAmerican #Sports #History #HenryArmstrong #Iroquois #boxing


If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

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Boxing Cherokee NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Star Podcast Announcement Video Archeology

Video Archeology – NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey – This Is Your Life

NDN All-Stars "Video Archeology" Movie Of The Week graphic

Why You Should Watch the “This Is Your Life” Episode Featuring Jack Dempsey

Just the other day I came across an old black-and-white episode of “This Is Your Life” featuring the legendary NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) . I love classic TV shows, especially ones that give you a peek into the lives of people who made history. This episode, which aired on November 1, 1950, has stuck with me ever since, and I think you should check it out too. Here’s why.

First off, there’s something really special about “This Is Your Life.” The show had a way of telling someone’s life story that was both emotional and surprising. They would bring in long-lost friends, family members, and other important people from the guest’s past, creating a powerful experience for both the person featured and the audience. It’s the kind of TV that really makes you feel something, and Jack Dempsey’s episode is a great example of this.

For those who might not know, NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey was one of the greatest boxers ever. He was the World Heavyweight Champion from 1919 to 1926, during what’s often called the “Golden Age of Boxing.” Nicknamed the “Manassa Mauler,” Dempsey was known for his fierce fighting style and incredible power. But what really made him famous was how he helped turn boxing into a major sport, drawing huge crowds and earning big money for his fights. (His bout with Georges Carpentier – who makes an appearance – was the first Million Dollar Gate in boxing history!)

Something that struck me when I watched this episode is just how humble and gracious Dempsey was. Despite all his fame and success, he comes across as a genuinely kind and down-to-earth guy. The show’s host, Ralph Edwards, does a great job of getting Dempsey to open up about his life, showing us the real person behind the famous boxer.

One of the best parts of the episode is when Dempsey is reunited with old friends and rivals from his boxing days. They are called up one by one to enter the set – a boxing ring set up just for the show. These moments are so real and honest—you just don’t see stuff like this on TV anymore. When one of his early trainers speaks before he makes his appearance, you can see the respect and recognition in Dempsey’s eyes. It’s a powerful moment, and a reminder that even the toughest champions are shaped by the people around them, and that no one gets to the top on their own.

Another great moment is when Dempsey’s family members join the show, including his wife and siblings. (He even picks up and holds his two granddaughters during the show…) Their stories give us a glimpse into Dempsey’s life, his struggles, and how he rose to fame. These personal details show that Dempsey wasn’t just a great fighter—he was also a loving husband, brother, and son. The sincerity and love in these interactions make it clear that Dempsey’s strength wasn’t just physical but also emotional and moral.

But what makes this episode truly special is that – as you watch, you feel like you’re right there with Dempsey, experiencing the ups and downs of his interactions with many people from his past. The show’s format, with surprise guests and heartfelt stories, creates a sense of closeness that’s rare on TV. By the end of the episode, you feel like you really know Jack Dempsey—not just as a boxer, but as a person.

I also have to mention how well the episode holds up, considering it was filmed in 1950. While some of the dialogue is a bit “cheesy” in an old-timey way, the black-and-white footage gives it a classic feel, and the reactions of the live audience add to the authenticity.

So, why should you watch this episode of “This Is Your Life”? Because it’s more than just a tribute to a sports legend. It’s a celebration of a life lived with passion, determination, and humility. It’s a reminder that behind every public figure is a private person with their own story, shaped by the people they’ve met and the challenges they’ve faced. In a world filled with shallow content, this show stands out as something meaningful and moving.

In the end, “This Is Your Life” does exactly what it aims to do: it brings to life an amazing person in a way that still resonates today. Watching NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey’s episode is like taking a trip back in time, and trust me, it’s a trip worth taking.


 


 

Bill Black, founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr. (Quah-Lee-Lah).
Bill Black(l), founder of NDN All-Stars with his father, Bill Black, Sr.

Bill Black is the creator and “General Manager of NDN All-Stars, celebrating great Native American athletes past and present.  He is a first generation descendant of the Okanogan Band of the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, and resides in Omak, WA.


#NDNAllstars #VideoArcheology #NativeAmerican #Sports #History #JackDempsey #Cherokee #boxing


If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.

Thank you for your support!

Categories
Boxing Cherokee NDN All-Star Info NDN All-Star Profile

NDN All-Star #6 – Jack Dempsey (Cherokee)

I selected Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) for the NDN All-Stars team because – he was the best and toughest boxer of the first half of the 20th Century, and the Undisputed Heavyweight Champion of the World for SEVEN YEARS!

There have been a lot of books written about NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) so there are tons of resources where you can find out more about his life and his boxing career.  I will provide a short list of some of the books that I have read below.  His story of growing up in poverty and having to fight in bars and back alleys to earn food money gives you an idea of the determination he had to make it to the top.

And on July 4, 1919 – in Toledo, OH, he did just that.  Dempsey shocked the world when he savagely beat the reigning Heavyweight Champion Jess Willard into submission.  The extent of the beating cannot be exaggerated.  Willard’s face was a bloody pulp, he lost teeth, and had his jaw and facial bones broken.  You can see the actual fight here.

After boxing, Jack Dempsey became a successful business man and restaurant owner.  He also dabbled in acting, making a few movies in Hollywood.

NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey’s legacy and impact on the sport of boxing lives on today.  His fighting style is studied and emulated by current fighters of all weight classes.  Former Heavyweight Champion “Iron” Mike Tyson has said many times that his ultimate boxing hero – and the fighter that he tried most to emulate – is Jack Dempsey.

What greater compliment can you get?

NDN All-Star #6 Jack Dempsey (Cherokee) is certainly deserving of a spot on the NDN All-Stars roster.

Suggested reading:

#ndnallstars #jackdempsey #cherokee #boxing #heavyweight #champion


If you enjoy the content here and would like to help support our mission of celebrating great Native athletes of the past and present, please take a look at our NDN All-Stars Shop. Proceeds from every purchase help us continue to retell these stories. Also, if you would like to donate to this effort, please visit our Patreon page.
Thank you for your support!