Joe Johnson, a 150-1 outsider, became the world snooker champion 40 years ago, transforming from a struggling factory worker into a household name.
Why it matters: Johnson's remarkable story highlights the unpredictable nature of sports and the personal resilience needed to overcome adversity.
Johnson had never won a match at the Crucible prior to his championship win, illustrating the steep odds he faced.
His victory in 1986 over Steve Davis marked a turning point in his life, earning him £70,000, a considerable sum at the time.
The win catapulted Johnson into fame, leading him to become the lead singer for the band Made In Japan, which achieved a hit record soon after.
Driving the news: Johnson reminisced about his unexpected rise to fame during an interview in Chiswick, where he currently works as a commentator for TNT Sports.
At 73, Johnson recounted the surreal experience of winning, stating, "I was thinking: ‘Is it really me?’" as he anticipated losing to Davis.
He had previously struggled professionally, doubting his abilities after turning pro in 1979 at age 27.
Johnson recalled a dark period in 1982 when he was signing on for unemployment benefits, emphasizing the financial pressures he faced.
State of play: The snooker scene in the mid-1980s was vibrant yet competitive, with only two major professional events: the World Championship and the UK Championship.
Johnson's early career was marked by limited opportunities; if he lost early in tournaments, he had nothing to support his family.
In 1985, he faced Bill Werbeniuk in the first round, who famously played under the influence of alcohol, defeating Johnson.
This loss fueled Johnson's determination, leading to his historic victory over Davis the following year.
The big picture: Johnson's life after becoming a champion was fraught with challenges, including health issues and financial struggles.
After reaching the final again in 1987, Johnson never won another ranking tournament, leading to difficulties that included selling his home.
He survived seven heart attacks, which put his career into perspective, forcing him to confront his mortality.
In 1991, he experienced his first heart attack, prompting a quadruple bypass surgery that changed his lifestyle.
What they're saying: Johnson's reflections reveal both pride in his achievements and a candid acknowledgment of the struggles he faced.
“I realise how fortunate I was to be world champion; my whole life changed,” Johnson said, underscoring the impact of his victory.
He noted how a single missed shot by his opponent, Terry Griffiths, during their semifinal match shifted the course of his life.
Johnson expressed gratitude for the respect he received in snooker, saying, “People treated me as a person rather than a colour,” referencing his mixed-race heritage.
By the numbers: Johnson's championship win was a landmark event in snooker history, with millions tuning in.
The 1986 final attracted approximately 18 million viewers, a staggering figure that solidified Johnson's place in snooker lore.
His subsequent fame led to encounters with celebrities, including Princess Diana, who once invited him to a tennis match.
Johnson's financial struggles post-championship highlight the volatility of professional sports careers, as he faced the need to sell his house after his earnings dwindled.
What's next: As Johnson continues to commentate on current championships, he remains a beloved figure in the snooker community.
He still engages with fans and reflects on his past, ensuring that his legacy as a champion endures.
Johnson's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that triumph can come from unexpected places.
In his own words, he acknowledges the importance of his past: “I’ll never get tired talking about 40 years ago.”