John L. Sullivan was once generally considered to be the last heavyweight bare-knuckle boxing champion. He held this title in the late 19th century and compiled an impressive tally of 47-1-2 with 38 knockouts. He’s a significant figure in boxing history as he also became the first recognized heavyweight champion under the Queensberry Rules, which introduced gloved boxing.
The Rumble in Richburg Makes History
Sullivan participated in a fight on July 8, 1889 known as one of the last major bareknuckle fights in the history of the first generation of the sport in America. The “Rumble in Richburg” took place in Mississippi and saw Sullivan victorious in round 75 against Jake Kilrain (who had a record of 20-0-9 at the time).