When was it that boxing didnt have rounds? Back in the day the fights used to go on knockdown after knockdown as long as you could return to your mark. When was this and who were the big name fighters in this period? Thanks
FiatLux:
Martin just summarized it perfectly!
Most of the bareknuckle fighters were local yokels, gypsies & slaves, and remember this is before there was an entertainment and news media so these guys weren't all world famous until more towards the end of the 19th century. They were more nationally or regionally famous.
Some of the more known names are Tom Molineaux (a slave that fought in the early 1800s), William Perry, Tom Hyer ("1st" American Champ), Morissey (Jack or John...can't recall), & John L. Sullivan being one of the last bareknuckle guys. Bareknuckle still goes on today!
There are a few good books out, and I'm sure a Google search would turn up a few things.
Aus
Hey, if you guys can find a blue-namer, I can scan some images in for you.
I have a sizable collection of fighting (Boxing, Wrestling, Bareknuckle, etc.) memorabilia from as far back as the turn of the century.
Otherwise, I can scan them in and E-mail them to you.
Aus
John L Sullivan was the first World-Famous athlete.