The first Sharkey fight is the issue when rating Corbett; " “SAN FRANCISCO, June 24. —James J. Corbett, champion of the world, was all but knocked out tonight in a four-round contest with Tom Sharkey, champion of the navy. The referee declared the contest a draw, but it is doubtful if the decision will be supported by public opinion. Corbett clinched Sharkey throughout the entire fourth round to avoid punishment. The champion was breathing heavily and apparently greatly exhausted when the round closed, while Sharkey seemed as fresh as at the beginning. Sharkey even refused to stop fighting at the end of the bout and made a vicious rush for Corbett. Six policemen jumped into the ring and three officers grabbed Sharkey. The Marine refused to be restrained and struck one of the policemen a vicious blow. More policemen jumped into the ring and Sharkey was finally escorted to his corner. The fight was a rough-and-tumble contest from the start. Sharkey pursued his usual tactics, rushing and striking wildly and using little or no science. Corbett said afterwards he was fouled twice and was offered the decision but refused to take it. However, that may be, Corbett did almost all of the clinching in the last round and would undoubtedly have been put out if he had not clung to Sharkey's neck with his left arm. Sharkey repeatedly pushed Corbett away, only to be grabbed about the neck again. During the first two rounds Corbett appeared to have the better of the contest, landing on Sharkey heavily whenever and wherever he pleased. Sharkey landed heavily on the champion several times, but most of his blows fell short. Sharkey's good showing was due to the fact that his rough-and-tumble pace was too furious for the champion. The Marine's heavy blows had their effect on Corbett, while the latter's blows appeared to make no impression on the Marine, so great is his ability to stand punishment.”
