We all know, by now, the story of Max Baer, Jr., and how he came to national fame on that show about black gold, Texas tea. Across nine seasons, Baer, Jr. portrayed Jethro Bodine, the dim-witted oaf of the family in The Beverly Hillbillies. In all but two of the show's 274 episodes, Jethro stole scenes and hearts, and Max Baer, Jr. made a name for himself as the star of one of America's most beloved sitcoms.

While everybody knows all about Jr., some may be surprised to learn that his father, Max Baer, Sr., was a name of some renown as well. 

Boxing fans will be quick to point out that Max Baer, the elder, was a world heavyweight champion for nearly a year in the 1930s. His professional fight record earned him nicknames like the Livermore Larupper and Madcap Maxie, and he later enjoyed a career in acting, just like his son. He'd also stave off the ol' ring rust with the occasional stint as a referee!

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However, most interestingly, Baer was half of one of the most significant fights in modern boxing history. In the waning days of his fighting career, Baer fought and lost to Lou Nova on June 1, 1939. While it was ultimately a losing effort, Baer's name was nonetheless etched in professional sports history, as this was the first televised heavyweight prizefight ever. The fight was broadcast on WNBT-TV in New York.

Baer would go on to have a few more fights before retiring in 1941. His final opponent? Once again, he fought Lou Nova, ultimately losing once more on a technical knockout in the eighth round. The scheduled 10-round event took place at the legendary Madison Square Garden. Nova would go on to fight then-champion Joe Louis, who won in the sixth round of a bout held at the Polo Grounds in New York.

With a record of 71-13, Baer left a mark in the annals of boxing history and was inducted into Ring magazine's Boxing Hall of Fame in 1968. However, it was the earlier 1939 fight that put him in the same history books as his TV star son, ol' Jethro Bodine!