I might also put an asterisk next to Corbett’s name, because I’m not entirely convinced that he was ever really lineal champion. Sullivan retired...
The usually accepted line is: Corbett > Fitz > Jeffries (Retired) > Hart (vs. Root) > Burns > Johnson I would say it is more like: Corbett...
That's interesting. I've had a quick look and am also struggling to find a contemporary source. According to "The World Colored Heavyweight...
Corbett relinquished the title when he retired in November 1895, and in my view only had the right to reclaim it if nobody had established a new...
Slavin lost to Armstrong by 10th round KO in November 1895.
It was reported in 1886 and 1887 that John L Sullivan wanted to fight Smith, and it seems that challenges were exchanged and accepted. However,...
James “Jem” Smith was unbeaten for the first few years of his career at the lower weights. He won an open heavyweight competition in December...
HI Matt, did you consider including Pete Nolan in 1886? He had a draw and a win over Burke (#5) in the year.
How do we treat retirements when tracing lineages? If the lineal champion retires, the top 2 contenders fight in his absence, then he returns to...
Matt, these are very interesting. Thanks for sharing them. I have one query - McAffery was unranked in 1881 but 9th in 1882. What did he do to...
