Rick’s Resort & Training Camp*

Rick’s Resort, established around 1909 by Rick DeBernardi, was located several miles west of Reno on what was then known as the Old Verdi Road. In the summer of 1910, it gained international prominence as the training camp for Jack Johnson, the first Black heavyweight boxing champion, as he prepared for his historic bout against James J. Jeffries, dubbed the “Fight of the Century,” held on July 4, 1910.

During his training at Rick’s Resort, Johnson attracted considerable attention. The resort was frequented by press and curious onlookers eager to witness the champion’s preparations. Many journalists covering the event even lodged at the resort. Johnson and his team would often cool off by jumping into an irrigation ditch that ran behind a barn on the property.

The resort itself was known for its $1.00 chicken dinners and eclectic entertainment, featuring visiting performers from San Francisco. After Johnson’s victory, Rick’s Resort continued to serve as a local getaway. In 1922, it was taken over by Bill Graham and Jim McKay, who renamed it The Willows and undertook extensive renovations. The Willows became the most exclusive gambling house and speakeasy in Nevada, renowned for its opulence and elegance. Unfortunately, the establishment burned to the ground in 1932 during remodeling and was never rebuilt.

While Rick’s Resort is primarily noted for hosting Jack Johnson during his 1910 training, there is no widely documented evidence of other prominent boxers training there. The resort’s association with Johnson remains its most significant contribution to boxing history.​