The national union for boxers is asking President George W. Bush to grant a full pardon to the first black Heavyweight Champion of the World, Jack Johnson. The Joint Association of Boxers is asking for the pardon in recognition of both Martin Luther King Day and out of respect for the first African American athlete to break through the color barrier. Johnson, who passed away in 1946, held the title from 1908-1915. During his time defending his title, he battled many "great white hopes." One such victory over James J. Jefferies sparked race riots and led to some states banning the filming of his victories over white fighters. In 1912, Johnson was arrested for transporting his white fiancé across state lines under a law originally intended to combat prostitution. He was eventually sentenced to a year in prison, but fled the United States and continued fighting in other parts of the world. Eventually he returned to the United States and served out his sentence. Many feel Johnson was convicted solely on prejudice and the Boxer's union is seeking exoneration of the charges.