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Bare-knuckle boxing (also known as bare-knuckle, prizefighting, or fisticuffs) is the original form of boxing closely related to ancient combat sports. It involves two individuals fighting without any boxing gloves or other form of padding on their hands. The difference between a streetfight and a bare-knuckle boxing match is the following of rules, such as not striking a downed opponent, unlike a "no-holds-barred" match.
History
The first bare-knuckle champion of England was James Figg, who claimed the title in 1719 and held it until his retirement in 1730.[1] Other noted champions were Jack Broughton, Daniel Mendoza, Jem Belcher, Hen Pearce, John Gully, Tom Cribb, Tom Spring, Jem Ward, James Burke, William 'Bendigo' Thompson, Ben Caunt, Tom Sayers and Jem Mace.[1]
The record for the longest bareknuckle fight is listed as 6 hours and 15 minutes for a match between James Kelly and Jack Smith in Melbourne, Australia on October 19, 1856.[2]
The bare-knuckle fighter Jem Mace is listed as having the longest professional career of any fighter in history.[2]. He fought for more than 35 years into his 60s,[3] and recorded his last exhibition bout in 1909 at the age of 78.
Notable bare-knuckle boxers
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