Sullivan defies the odds and makes it to the 40s-50s. Inspired by that Jack Johnson lives into his 90s thread, what would John L. Sullivan think of Dempsey, Louis, Marciano?
Sullivan was a very good boxing writer, and would probably have made a great commentator. He would probably have tended to look more favorably on offensive fighters, like the aforementioned men.
Maybe he would have moved with the times and lost his bigotry about the colour line or maybe not? Sullivan would have liked the attacking heavies such as Jack Dempsey,Joe Louis and Rocky Marciano as has been mentioned. He would probably have frowned upon Gene Tunney as his artistic style of boxing would have reminded him of Jim Corbett.
I agree, it would surely feel like a throwback to his days. Who knows, maybe John L. would've been willing to film himself sparring with Dempsey in the 20s like Jack McAuliffe did.
Good one Stevie. Can just imagine him ripping in to the likes of Tunney.. Too much dancing around for his liking lol
It would’ve been really something else if John L had lived into his 90s. Whatever his racist attitudes otherwise, it seemed he did give Jack Johnson his just dues. I must admit, the first time I saw the photo of John L shaking Johnson’s hand (see below) it blew me away a bit - of all the ex white HW Champs, John L was the last guy I’d figure to be seen in such a photo. Very iconic photograph imo. I think Dempsey would likely be the fighter John L would’ve most related to and liked the best. https://x.com/BoxingTriviaGuy/status/802316222020849664/photo/1
Oh yes,Fergy. "That Tunney is a fancy dan. I would have licked him just as I would have done any sonofabitch in the house!"