Featherweight Joe Bernstein (November 7, 1877–1931) was one of the first great boxers to emerge from New York's Lower East Side. He fought for the championship three times, but lost all three bouts. Nicknamed "The Pride of the Ghetto" in the 1890s, these fights endeared Bernstein to newly arriving Jewish immigrants.
Bernstein began fighting professionally in 1894 and fought the best men in his division, including Hall of Famer George Dixon in September 1898 (a six-round no decision). Dixon won the world title two months later and granted Bernstein a shot at the crown in June 1899. The rematch went the full 25-rounds, with Bernstein losing the decision.
In November 1900, the 23-year-old Bernstein had another shot at the title after defeating former champ Solly Smith twice (one knockout, one disqualification). This time, he battled the legendary Terry McGovern (Bernstein was knocked out in the seventh round).
In October 1902, Bernstein was given his third title shot by Young Corbett II and was knocked out in the seventh round.
Bernstein fought for six more years without another title shot.