Longest reigns, most defenses
Louis/Schmelling  
Joe Louis (left) stops Max Schmelling in the first round to retain the heavyweight title, June 22, 1938. (AP)  

Legendary heavyweight champion Joe Louis distinguished himself countless times during his 18-year career. Among his accomplishments as heavyweight king are 25 successful title defenses and a title reign that lasted 11-years, 7 months, both division records.

They're not only records for the heavyweight division, but all 17 divisions. This is even more impressive you consider that the 'Brown Bomber' was an undisputed champion. Today, there are three major organizations that sponsor world championships.

Other champions who hold the dual distinction of most defenses and longest title reign include:

  • Anaclet Wamba (cruiserweight)
  • Carlos Monzon (middleweight)
  • Gianfranco Rosi (jr. middleweight)
  • Julio Cesar Chavez (jr. welterweight)
  • Orlando Canizalez (bantamweight)
  • Khaosai Galaxy (jr. bantamweight)
  • Myung Woo Yuh (jr. flyweight)
  • Ricardo Lopez (Strawweight)