George Dixon Vs "Nunc" Wallace

If anyone notices any errors, please point them out. A few parts were hard to read, and there's likely to be a few typos in something this long.
THE SPORTSMAN, SARURDAY, JUNE 28, 1890. Page 6

THE BANTAMWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP.

—

“NUNC”

WALLACE

(ENGLAND)

AND

GEORGE DIXON

(AMERICA).

—

A SPLENDID CONTEST.

—

DIXON WINS IN EIGHTEEN ROUNDS.

—

THE long-talked-of contest between Nunc Wallace, of England, and George Dixon, of Boston, was decided at the Pelican Club last evening, and introduced to a brilliant gathering in the person of Dixon one of the finest two-handed fighters ever seen. Fully 800 members and friends assembled in the handsome Gymnasium, and when the men entered the ring at eleven o’clock the scene was one not readily to be forgotten. At the start 600l. to 500l. was offered on Wallace, but before a blow had been struck even money was accepted, a good amount changing hands at this price. Contrary to expectation Wallace made a very poor show. With an immense advantage in the matter of reach Dixon quickly established a lead, and though no great harm was done in the first half-dozen round, the superiority of the coloured boy was so apparent that he became favourite at 5 to 4. The tenth round practically settled the business, as Dixon, setting to work in earnest, rushed the Birmingham lad all round the ring. Wallace did his best to stare off the attack, and by dodging evaded some punishment. In the last minute, however, Dixon had matters nearly his own way, and the Midlander was terribly hard pressed when time came to his rescue. Neglecting to follow up his advantage Dixon gave his man breathing time, and “Nunc” getting his second win, made a fair show in the next two rounds. Finding himself outpointed he now went for a knock-out, but Dixon was too clever, and, in addition, almost as fresh as at the start. When the pair stood up for the seventeenth bout Wallace appeared in great trouble, and though he now and again met the Boston boy’s rushes in a plucky manner, the exchanges were all in favour of the visitor, time again coming to the aid of the Englishman. The next round proved the last, as Dixon, forcing the pace from the call of time, used both hands with such effect that before two minutes had expired Wallace was beaten to a standstill, and holding out his hand in token of defeat, another victory went to America, after the two had been boxing exactly an hour and ten minutes.

For fully two years “Nunc” Wallace, of Birmingham, has been generally considered the best boxer at his weight. 8st, in the Old Country. Certainly a few disputed his claim to the title of Champion, and amongst those we may claim the friends and admirers of George Camp, of Bermondsey. Who, in support of their opinion, a little more than six months ago , challenged the “Brum” through the columns of this paper. As all the world knows, this led to a match for 500l. a side, the highest amount ever staked by bantam weights for a struggle with the gloves. The all-important even was decided on January 13 last at the Ormondo Club, and after a scientific battle lasting just upon an hour, Wallace proved his right to be claimed first amongst the boxers at his weight. About this time a “coloured person,” Dixon, was making a name for himself as a bantam-weight pugilist in the States. In several contests of a limited number of rounds he had come off triumphant, but his opponent were of a rather inferior class, and it was not until the end of last year that he attracted the attention of the “sports” across the pond by fighting a terrific battle with skin gloves against one Brennan. The pair had met twice previously, a draw being the result in each case. Dixon, however, had by this time “come on” wonderfully, and though Brennan, too, showed marked improvement, he was a beaten man in the twenty-seventh round, despite which Dixon was robbed of the verdict. By this performance the coloured youth created a very favourable impression and gained a host of friends, who though so much of the Boston boy as to match him against Cal M’Carthy, then the recognised Champion at 8th. This was really the battle that gained Dixon the reputation he brought to the Old Country, as after standing up four hours against Cal, he left off the stronger of the two, but had once more to agree to a draw. Dixon’s fame now spread far and wise, and quickly reached England.

HOW THE MATCH WAS MADE.

At this time, February last, Wallace was resting on the laurels he had gained in his bout with Camp, but followers of the sport soon began to couple his name with that of the Bostonian, and the remark was made in many a quarter, “What a fine match Wallace and Dixon would make.” As a natural consequence challengers quickly flow about, and just as Wallace had mad up his mind to visit the States we were requested by the proprietor of the Pelican club on April 7 to cable an offer to Dixon. This was made the same day as follows:

“Pelican Club will give 500l. Dixon and Wallace box 8st 2I. Allow Dixon 100l. Reply, SPORTSMAN, London.”

On the day following we received the reply appended:

“SPORTSMAN, London,—Accept offer. Will sail end April, and box any time June. 400l. winner.—

O’Rourke.”

Wallace was next interviews on the subject, and later he attended the office of THE SPORTSMAN, and signified in writing his acceptance of the terms, and this fact having been cabled to the States, Dixon, accompanied by Messers T. O’Rourke and M’Gough, set sail in the Cephalonis—the same ship, it may be noted, that carried John L Sullivan safely to England three years ago. After a pleasant passage they reached Liverpool on May 13.

SIGNING ARTICLES AT THE “SPORTSMAN” OFFICE.

The next day the visitors found their way to London, and were made welcome to the metropoli- by a member of our staff. Wallace was absent from town, and a slight delay occurred, but events ually those concerned met at THE SPORTSMAN Office on the evening of Thursday, May 22, the company being made up as follows:—Mr B. J. Angle, Mr T. F. O’Rourke, Mr. T. M’Gough, Mr C. Hibber, Mr Walter Melvilla, Mr John Fleming, Mr Haimes, Mr Merdecal, Wallace, Dixon, Ben Garrington, and George (Barney) Sheppard. Little time was wasted, and both sides being on business intent a match was quickly ratified, Dixon and Wallace signing articles to box thirty round at the Pelican Club on Friday, June 27, in a 16ft ring, at 8st 2lb, for a purse of 500l., 400l. to go to the winner and 100l. to the loser, the contest to be decided under Pelican Club rules, which stipulate that a competitor losing the fight on a deliberate foul gets nothing.

As soon as the agreement had been signed, Mr Hibbert offered to back Wallace for any part of 1000l. at evens, but Mr O’Rourke said he could 2 to 1 in the States, and so business was done. When full particulars of the meeting appeared in our columns on the following morning little else was talked of in boxing circles. By many it was thought a soft thing for Wallace, his friends [taring] their opinion on the following circumstances. Last fall a boxer from Woolwich, Mike M’Gough, journeyed to the States, and after one or two minor battles was pitted, as “Mike Nolan,” against Cal M’Carthy, then in the zenith of his fame. Almost any odds were offered against the visitor, but to the astonishment of the Yanks M’Gough fairly held his own; in fact, it is stated he was getting the better of M’Carthy when he had to retire owning to a broken arm. Before going to America M’Gough had been put out in competitions at the Aquarium by men without any pretensions to Championship honours, and when Dixon subsequently fought a draw with M’Carthy, his form, gauged by the latter’s se-to with M’Gough, was considered inferior to that of Wallace. Consequently the latter was speedily made favourite, and special sums were booked at different race meeting and clubs at odds ranging from 100 to 80 to 2 to 1 on the “Brum.”

 

THE SPORTSMAN, SARURDAY, JUNE 28, 1890. Page 6
WHAT THE MEN HAVE DONE.

As his name signifies, Wallace is of Scotch origin. Born in Birmingham on December 13, 1867, he is in his 23rd year, and stands 5ft 2in. For one so young Wallace has a very lengthy record, having taken part in over a score of regular contest, to say nothing of competitions. Though wonderfully clever with the gloves he has gained more renown with the knuckles, and in this style has never been defeated. After graduating in the Birmingham school, and securing three or four prizes with the gloves, Wallace was matched under P.R. rules against J. Cornelius, who was beaten in 30min. A victory in the same style over A. Bennett followed, and then J. Hands also had to lower his flag to “Nunc” under P.R. rules, as had “******” Jones two months later. The Brum was now matched against Charley Jones of Birkenbead, a fighter who had come with a bound to the front. Wallace was giving a lot of weight away, but so well did he perform when the pair met at Newmarket two years ago that Jones had to cry “enough,” and leave “Nunc” still the possessor of an unbeaten record. The trouble brining off fist fights made Wallace again go in for glove fighting, and being matched against Sam Tunge, of Birmingham, was his next victim, and then “Nunc” added to his reputation by beating George Pemherton, and two months later Jack Wilson. His next engagement was with Charley Smith, of Spitalfields, now matched in America against Dixon’s old opponent, Cal. McCarthy. The pair met to box twelve rounds at a private entertainment given by those well-known pencillers, Morey and Janey, and victory once more rested with the Brum. Following this, Wallace improved his record by easily beating Dick Waldron, of Somers Town, at the West-End, in six rounds, whilst a week later he got the better of J. Mills, of Poplar, in a twelve round contest. Slodge Deeloy, of Islington, Billy Noon, or Birmingham, and Sam Horner, of the same place, then went down in succession before the all-conquering Midlander, who, however, later met with a check in the final of a competition at the aquarium, where he was beaten by W. Goode, of Battersea. How he squared this in a match against Goode in March last year for 200l. in 31 minutes, despite the breaking up of the ring by some ruffians in the latter’s corner, is now a matter of history. Previous to this should be mentioned a victory in the old style over W. Willis, of Bloomsbury, who was knocked out after fighting sixty-two rounds in 1 hour 32 minutes. Subsequently Wallace met Charley Smith in a six-round contest at the Agricultural Hall, and failing to exert himself, got beaten. This was followed by his last and most important battle previous to the one under notice, the finish-fight with 2oz gloves against Camp for 1000l., which placed “Nunc” on the topmost rung of the ladder of fame.

George R. Dixon is nearly three years younger than his rival. He is not, indeed, yet out of his teens, having been born in Halifax, Nova Scotia, on July 29, 1870. Taking a liking to gloves when quite a youngster Dixon practised assiduously, and entered upon his first fight when he had just turned seventeen. Young Johnson was his opponent, and three rounds proved sufficient to give the coloured boy the victory. in the same year (1887) he defeated Jack Hamilton in eight rounds, Sam Hoen in three rounds, and Young Mack in five rounds.Thw following year (1888) he opened the ball by lowering the colours of Jack Layman, who “went under” in five rounds. Charley Parton, of Manchester, England, was his next customer, Dixon administering the coup de grace in the sixth round. The coloured boy now had a very busy time of it, and the same month (February) he disposed of Barney Finnigan (seven rounds) and Ned Morris (four rounds), whilst early in March he fought a draw, lasting fifteen rounds, with Paddy Kelly. Tom Doherty was a beaten man after standing up for ten rounds before the coloured youth, and then Dixon met Tom Kelly for the Bantam-Weight Championship, the affair ending in a draw at the close of the ninth round. On June 9 Jemmy Brackett had had quite enough of it in four rounds. Two draws with H. Brennan came next on Dixon’s programme, his operations ending for the year with a victory W. James in three rounds. Last fall the subject of this notice again met Brennan, another draw being the result of a stubborn fight, lasting twenty-seven rounds. Dixon was now pitched against Eugene Hornbacker, a boxer supposed to be nearly at the top of the tree. He, however, stood little chance against George, and to the astonishment of his friends, was knocked out in the second round. Now came Dixon’s biggest fight, the one with Cal M’Carthy in February of the present year, yet another draw having to be recorded at the end of the seventieth round. Following this Dixon got the best of Paddy Carney and Jack Farrell, and just before he sailed failed to knock out Mat M’Carthy in four rounds.

IN TRAINING.

Before the articles were signed Dixon had commenced training, excellent quarters being found for him at the Crown Hotel, Oakham. Here his work was superintended by Mr T. O’Rourke and Mr M’Gough, and to keep him company, and perhaps at the same time get a line as to Wallace’s ability, the latter’s old opponent, W. Willis, of Sobo, was engaged to spar with the American and accompany him in his walks abroad. At first, Dixon did not take very kindly to the business, as, though he never shirked the task set him, the quiet surroundings were altogether foreign to what he had been accustomed to at home, and, to use his own words, he got terribly “lonely” at times. This, however, wore off after the first fortnight, and when a member of THE SPORTSMAN staff journeyed into Rutlandshire to take a few notes of his work. Dixon was not only in the best of health but the best of spirits also. Stripped he looked hardly the same lad as with his clothes on, presenting an immense amount of muscle for one his weight. His great length of reach was, in addition, very noticeable, and after seeing him at work for over an hour there was no doubt at all as to his staying powers. Further remarks on this part of the business are unnecessary, seeing that it has recently been fully dealt with in our columns. The training-quarters of Dixon were kept as secret as possible, but rumour was rife with his doings. One account was to the effect that Willis had been given a “tenner” to go on his merits six rounds against the black, who put the Englishman to sleep in the third round. Anyhow he progressed well in his training, and the day before the fight was voted in the pink of condition.

Wallace looked well after his preparation. Before going into strict work he spent a week or so with a friend at Windson, Mr Hained, of the Bells of Ouzeley, and during this time put on nearly 6th. Directly, however, the match was a settled thing he left for Brighton under the care of Ben Garrington, the pair making the Abergaveany Inn, Blackrock, their head-quarters. Never before, it was claimed, had Wallace started training under such favourable conditions, and certainly when the writer of these conditions, and certainly when the writer of these notes paid him a visit ten days ago he looked fit to fight for anything. He had never weighed so much at the start before, but his 8st 8Ib had gradually been reduced to 8st 2Ib, and on the day of our visit the little “Brum” looked all bone and muscle. Like his rival, Wallace was the subject of many reports, and at one time it got abroad that he had committed suicide, a Brighton paper going so far as to publish an account of “Nunc’s” death. He was carefully looked after by an experienced hand like Garrington, and, in addition, wanted for nothing, his friends being lavish in their expenditure to ensure his comfort. With all this on the top of a record which may practically be termed an unbeaten one, it is no wonder that Wallace throughout the piece was brimful of confidence.

As the day of the contest drew near speculation became brisker, and after racing the question frequently cropped up, “What price Wallace and Dixon?” At Newmarket 100l. to 80l. on Wallace was laid to good money, whilst in other quarters as much as 2 to 1 was offered and accepted. A week ago the price shortened, and the Stockbridge Meeting on Thursday last a well-known London bookmaker had a commission to back Dixon at even money. Yesterday, at Windsor, however one of Wallace’s supporters offered to bet him a thousand level, which was politely declined.

ARRIVAL IN LONDON.

Just after one o’clock Wallace bode good bye to the many friends he had made at the Alergavenny, and, in company with Mr Walter Melville and his trainer, Ben Garrington, journeyed to London by the 1:40 from Brighton. Reaching town the trio were joined by Alf Greenfield and Dick Roberts, and tracks were at once made for Mr Nelville’s residence at South Kensington, where “Nunc” took matters quietly before repairing to to the Pelican Club to pass the scale. Dixon reached town soon after three, in company with Mr O’Rourke, Mr M’Gough, and Mr La Roo, the Americans quitting Oakham with the best wishes of many friends.

 

THE SPORTSMAN, SARURDAY, JUNE 28, 1890. Page 6
THE WEIGHING.

Six o’clock was the time fixed for weighing at the Pelican Club, and twenty minutes before this hour Wallace arrived in Gerraed-street, accompanied by Mr Walter Melville, Dick Roberts, Greenfield, and Ben Garrington. Mr Ernest Wells made the visitors welcome, and, pending the advent of Dixon, the party were shown over the gymnasium by Mr Fleming. A few minutes before six the Americans appeared on the scene, Mr O’Rourke, Mr M’Gough, Mr La Roo, and Dixon entering the club together. The party at once ran across Wallace, Dixon and he shaking hands cordially. A move was now made upstairs, and disrobing, Dixon was the first on the scale, and the word “all right” was given as he pulled down the beam at 8st 1Ib, “Nunc” followed, and the Americans pressed anxiously forward to find the Brum a pound less than his opponent, or 8st exactly.

Theis over the men repaired to their respective rooms given them by Mr Wells, and dressing, Wallace left for the Brunswick Hotel, Jermyn-street.

Dixon elected to take a walk, and subsequently returns, but Wallace, after replenishing the inner man, visited Regent’s Park, where he did a good spell of running and walking.

BEFORE THE BATTLE.

Mr Wells had made elaborate preparations at the club for the crush he knew was imminent. Additional seating was erected, and evert arrangement for the comfort of the members made in the gymnasium. A notice posted in the club to the effect that no one would be admitted to the sanctum before 10.54 was set at naught, and half an hour before this time hardly a seat was vacant. All classes of sport were represented, and as one after another made his way below only to find standing room satirical remarks went broadcast. Meanwhile Wallace was snug in bed at the Brunswick Hotel, Jermyn-street, and through a dozen or more friends pressed round his pillow, “Nunc” slept like a ton. Dixon, too, was nursing himself at the Pelican Club, and while the men were resting time was called loudly by the impatient spectators.

Just as the clock struck eleven Dixon appeared n the top of the stairs, closely attended by Mr O’Rourke, Mr M’Gough, Mr Larue, and W. Willis.

With the greatest difficulty he made his way to the bottom, and after considerable trouble ducked under the ropes. A big cheer greeted his advent within the square, which was renewed when he took his seat. Three or four Bostonians no ranged themselves round the visitors’ corner, but the coloured boy was on the wrong seat, and all had to move to the opposite side. This had barely been done when Wallace appeared enveloped in an ulster, which gave him the appearance of a Sioux warrior on a small scale. Close behind came his seconds, Alf Greenfield and Dick Roberts, with trainer, Ben Garrington. Try as they would, no ground was gained and as a last resource Wallace made a detour to the right, and scaling the ruined the ruined seats entered the ring that way. Like his opponent, he met with a flattering reception, and cool as a cucumber took a seat in the corner occupied by Smith in his fight with Jackson. “I don’t like that,” said a spectator, when the fact was made known to him, but his remarks were cut short by the request to take one of Wallace’s colours. “They will be two guineas each in less than half an hour,” said the vendor, “so you had better pay one for them now.”

At this stage Mr Fleming called “Order,” and the same having been obtained, he said, “Gentlemen, Mr Robinson, Of Regent-street, is going to take a photo-graph of the men in the ring. Is there any objection?”

A roar of assent followed, and the principals advancing to the centre were duly “taken.” It was next announced that Mr George Vize would act as referee, Mcarn A. F. Bettinson and W. J. King as judges, and Mr Reg. Wakefield as timekeeper. Wallace then crossed to Dixon’s corner and handed the American a colour, a compliment our visitor returned with a kerchief of his own and a smile. Whilst this was going on an offer of 600l. to 500l. on Wallace met with no response.

Though in another part of the room a good sum was wagered at this price, though the a.p, may be quoted as 5 to 4 on Wallace.

The next thing was an address from the referee, who in a few remarks drew the attention of the spectators and competitors to the conditions of the contest, particularly reminding the principals that in case a deliberate foul was committed the lose would get nothing. This rules met with the applause it deserved, and the nine hundred odd spectators having settled in their places Reg. Wakefield called time. The battle did not, however, commence here as it should have done, and another hald minute sped by whilst the men and their seconds went through the old-fashioned business of shaking hands Mallese-cross fashion. Then, amid chapel-like silence, the men advanced to the centre of the ring, and throw themselves into the position for

THE CONTEST.

FIRST ROUND.
Exactly at twenty minutes past eleven the lads, in answer to the call of “Time,” stepped into the centre of the ring. At once the company was hushed to silence, and the styles of the competitors scanned. The Englishman’s framing was the more admired, as he stood well up, with head well poised, left well out, and right half across, Dixon, by comparison, was ungainly, but his superior reach was at once manifested. Standing very wide, his left straight in front, with the shoulder up and his right across the body, he looked a trifle ungainly. Both smiled confidently, and as though there was something funny in the business which engaged their attention. Watching each other closely, they sparred round and round for a long time before making any attempt to hit. Each in turn got close, only to break ground, Dixon working his arms with a quick, convulsive motion, while Wallace was apparently waiting. The Englishman at last feinted with the left, but Dixon was as quick as a ferret to see the move, and stepped away. The latter then tried with the left, but it came to nothing, and he worked in a second time and then let fly with the left. This was short, and his attempt to follow it up failed as Wallace ducked and avoided. A light exchange took place as they again came to clos quarters, and this was followed by a long spar. Dixon was once more short with both hands, Wallace defending himself smartly, but this annoyed the ******, who rushed at his man, using left and right to little purpose, as Wallace smilllingly avoided the attentions. Wallace met Dixon’s next attempt to get on with a one, two. They had not his usual sting, but had the effect of bringing Dixon on wildly, and a clinch ensued, from which they mutually parted. Dixon after a short spar again rushed in, but was met with both hands, although the blows were not of a heavy character. Wallace looked like having the best of it, as he timed Dixon’s onslaughts well, but the Americans, getting to close quarters, was very busy about the body and head when the call of time separated them.

SECOND ROUND.
Wallace looked more serious as he came up again, but Dixon was all smiles and as confident as if he had won already. Thirty seconds were spent in sparring before a blow was attempted. Wallace shooting the left straight on the face. This caused Dixon to rush to close quarters, but little was done in the clinch, and by mutual consent they separated. More sparring and cinching followed, with little done beyond, whilst Dixon, in attempting to lead the left over Wallace’s guard, caught a rap on the nose. This riled the little American, who went at his rival with both hands, Wallace getting out of trouble by ducking and slipping his man. As Dixon was trying for an opening at the next attempt Wallace suddenly took the iniative, and dashed a swinging left-hander on the neck, which staggered Dixon for a bit, and before he could recover Wallace followed him up, and they got in holds. Both used their lefts freely, but without doing much damage, and so long did they hug this time that a caution from the referee was called forth. Dixon appeared unsteady on his legs as they again broke free, and a long spar ensued before the stranger let go with the left, and was stopped by Wallace’s right being brought across the face just as time put an end to further work.

THIRD ROUND.
Wallace was a bit wary as he met Dixon, and was content to let Dixon spar while he kept out of range. The American once got close, but Wallace saved himself by dropping in under his adversary’s lead and shouldering him away. They closed several times in this fashion, Dixon’s blows going over Wallace’s shoulder or wide of the mark. Wallace then attempted to draw Dixon on, feinting with the left, but the latter would not bet denied, and rushed in with the left. Wallace defended himself very cleverly, but could not retaliate to any extent. Dixon’s long reach standing him in good stead. Again and again Dixon forced the fighting, but Wallace showed wonderful skill in dodging and ducking. At last Dixon cornered him, and then, after smiling at the Brum, slashing away with the left on the head, and as Wallace ducked landing an uppercut with the right. Dixon appeared to be enjoying the fun, and the more he smiled the more dangerous he became, as in the last half minute he closed and stabbed the left hotly on th face, jumping away once Wallace could reply, time being called before more was done.

 

THE SPORTSMAN, SARURDAY, JUNE 28, 1890. Page 6
FOURTH ROUND.
Both looked fresh enough, and there was more sparring and feinting, neither appearing to be in any hurry to commence operations. Dixon tried a rush, but could not get on, and this was followed by a long scramble, Wallace just missing with left and right, while Dixon slipped down after Wallace had shouldered him away. Dixon rushed in again but was avoided, and then Wallace made a move, dabbing the left straight on the nose and jumping away. Dixon could not reach with his left-handed leads, Wallace dodging and dropping as the American came at him, but the latter, keeping calm, landed a couple of nasty half-arm right-handers on the jaw. Dixon let his man off several times, but closed with him nearing the end, and fibbed away at the ribs, the while both smiled as though they liked it.

FIFTH ROUND.
Neither showed any marks up to this time, and looked as fresh as when they started. It was a repetition of the previous round. Dixon rushing in only to be avoided, and, although he had plenty of opportunities, failed to followed them up. Wallace woke him up with a stinging left-handed straight on the nose, and dodged out of harm’s way. Dixon got riled and dashed in again, punching Wallace heavily on the body, while the latter tapped him on the face in reply. Dixon’s next rush was met with the shoulders, Wallace landing a flush hit on the mouth as time was called.

SIXTH ROUND.
Dixon was first on his feet at the call of time, but no sooner had they framed up than Wallace, getting within reach, let go with the left straight on the face After a short spar Wallace tried again, but Dixon avoided, and they closed and broke away without doing anything beyond the usual smiling. Wallace worked in and reached the body with the left, avoiding Dixon’s reply, but at the next attempt Dixon did better, as he swung left and right on the head. Wallace then worked his man to the corner, but before he could utilise his advantage Dixon jumped at him and smashed the left and right on the jaw.

SEVENTH ROUND.
The customary spar at the opening took place, but on settling down Dixon was first to make play with the left. Wallace broke ground, and coming together again some light exchanges took place. Dixon sent in the left in on the eye smartly and escaped the rejoinder, and again leading the American left his mark on the body. Wallace tried a lead, but was met with another smashing left-hander on the mug. This last blow seemed to get the Brum’s “dander up, for with a rather wicked look he went for his opponent and landed on the dial. Towards the close he wove in and punched Dixon with the left, and when time was called looked like warming up to his work.

Eight Round.
Neither seemed disposed to begin after his experiences in the previous round, but at length Wallace, moving close up, stabbed Dixon with the left on the body, though quick as lightning the dusky one replied by countering on the face, and matter were even. Getting to close quarters a second time Wallace slipped his rival, but the latter would not be denied, and following the Englishman up jobbed him on the face. Wallace remained pretty much on the defensive and Dixon was mostly first, but towards the finish of the round Wallace ecanyed a load, but without much effect.

NINTH ROUND.
As soon as they faced each other Dixon by signs made known that something was amiss with his left glove, and Wallace, saying that he did not want to be hit string, went to his corner to allow his opponent to have it put right. This accomplished they framed up, and Wallace looked more like business than before As he closed and attempted to get on Dixon planted a hot one in the stomach, and then rushed in and fibbed away with both hands on the ribs. Twice again they closed, only to break clear without doing any damage. Dixon getting tired of this sent the left on a voyage of discovery and reached the forehead, Wallace then dodging away from further harm. Dixon continued to force the fighting, but was well met and stopped up to the call of time.

TENTH ROUND.
Dixon fairly jumped into the centre of the ring, and after a short spell of sparring the ******, weaving in as quick as a flash, shot the left very sharply oon the body before closing. As soon as they were apart Dion smashed the left of the face, and followed this up with both hands, when they got into holds, and scrambled about to the ropes. In the midst of this Wallace fell down, but Dixon, after standing over him for a few seconds, stepped away, and the Birmingham lad quickly rose to his feet. They again got to close quarters and punched away while holding, until Dixon fell through the ropes between the corners. Wallace was bleeding freely from the left eye as he got clear, and there was much confusion, as some one called out “Time,” and they went to their corners. Resuming, Wallace slapped the left on the face, but Dixon gave him one with interest before the end.

ELEVENTH ROUND.
Though somewhat roughly handled in the previous round, Wallace was sent up very clean, and outwardly with little the matter beyond a suspicious swelling of the left eye. He was, however, by no means as fresh as the American. Proceedings were opened with a heavy counter, subsequent to which Dixon shot in the left flush on the dial, Wallace countering smartly on the same spot. Some rapid exchanged at close quarters followed, but breaking away a spar took place, and Dixon again lef off with effort. Quickly to let fly left and right, making the Englishman wince. Weakly Nunc tried the left at the head, and coming to close quarters some heavy exchanged took place, of which Dixon had somewhat the best, landing three tremendous punched on the body. In some half-arm work towards the close the Brum had a trifle the best of things, but altogether the round was immensely in favour of the visitor.

TWELFTH ROUND.
Wallace was a bit flushed, and he attempted to take the initiative, but Dixon was at him, and kept him going with two-handed fighting, finishing up by upper-cutting him with the left as Wallace ducked near the ropes. Wallace missed with the left and also when he attempted to bring off the right, but Dixon was more fortunate, as he followed hi man up and punched him with the right on the jaw. There was a lot of sparring after this, and again hugging was the order. Wallace tried with the left, but failed to reach, and at last showed signs of weakness as Dixon, still as strong as ever, rushed at him with left and right drives at the head. Some hot exchanged were dealt out, Wallace getting the worst of the deal as Dixon swung both hands on the jaw to finish up with.

THIRTEENTH ROUND.
Wallace looked puffed, especially about the left cheek, but he was first to commence operations by trying with the left. There was no force in his blows, and he was much slower than usual, Dixon avoiding the visitations easily. Wallace tried again, but was met with a terrific left-handed blow straight on the jaw which fairly staggered the Birmingham man. This he followed with a left and right, but let Wallace off at close quarters. Nunc’s blood was fairly up, and working Dixon to the ropes he tried with the right, but landed a trifle too low. Dixon gave him a couple in reply, and then after a lengthy spar reached the jaw with the left, and bringing the right across had Wallace fairly settled. Nothing more was done, as the call of time stopped Dixon when following up his advantage.

FOURTEENTH ROUND.
Wallace, improved by his rest, was soon on the job, but after a light exchange Dixon, still as strong as when he began, plugged him with the left on the mouth. Getting to close quarters Wallace fibbed away at the body, but got a nasty one on the damaged left eye which again bled freely. They were quiet after this rally until Dixon worked in and let go with the left and right. Dixon now had all the best of it, as he was much too quick for Wallace, and the latter weakening, failed to avoid as he had done before. During the last thirty seconds excitement ran high, as Dixon punched his opponent left and right on the jaw. Wallace, pulling himself together, got a good right in also, but Dixon, who appeared none the worse for it.

FIFTEENTH ROUND.
There was another long spar, when Dixon tried his rushing tactics, Wallace just avoiding the onslaught. At the next attempt, however, the American stabbed the left heavily on the stomach, and brought on a couple of right-handed exchanges before they broke away. Again the dusky one went for the lower works, and with left and right in quick succession drove Wallace back, and smacked with the right on the jaw. More hugging ensued, and there was not much damage done until enaring the close, when Wallace reached the body with the left, only to receive a stinging left-handed blow flush on the mouth, time saving Wallace.

SIXTEENTH ROUND.
Wallace now showed signs of punishment on body and face, but all the same he looked to have plenty of go left, and he was first at work, getting on with the left and then with both gloves, but the blows lacked power. On a second attempt he caught Dixon left and a half-arm right on the jaw, when did him no good. Wallace continued to force matters, but as Dixon went to the ropes he rushed out and landed heavily with left on the face and right on the jaw. This happened several times, and at the close Wallace had all the worst of it.

 

THE SPORTSMAN, SARURDAY, JUNE 28, 1890. Page 6
SEVENTEENTH ROUND.
On call of “time” both rose quickly from their seats and advanced to continued the fray. The American opened, and leading with the left escaped the rejoinder. The pair clinched, and Wallace tried to get home with the left, but only touched his opponent lightly. The Birmingham man upper-cut his rival, but without much effect, and Dixon then followed him up, only to be shouldered by Wallace, who broke ground. The left eye of the Englishman was opened again, but taken altogether, the round was a very tame one, and seemed at least a minute short.

EIGHTEENTH AND LAST ROUND.
Both came to the mark looking more wicked than than before. Wallace, trying to get an opening, was met by Dixon with a smashing left-hander between the eyes, which sent the “Brum” reeling. Dixon now acted very differently from before, and following Wallace up slushed away with both hands and punched his man all over the ring. Wallace was too weak to respond, and eventually dropped his hands and allowed Dixon to punch him when and how he liked. Dixon drove him to his corner, and hammered away until, seeing Wallace helpless, Dixon refrained from further punishment, Wallace holding out his hands in token of defeat. A tremendous shout of applause greeted the victory of the American, who was hoisted shoulder high by his supporters.

REMARKS.
The result of the contest recorded will come to many as a surprise, Wallace having long been considered invincible at his weight. In Dixon, however, he met a youth who may be fairly termed a perfect master of the art he has adopted, and those who had not the good fortune to witness the battle missed one of the finest expositions of two-handed fighting over seen.

We have not the slightest wish to detract from the merits of our countryman, but pursuing the course we always take, and giving credit where credit is due, we are bound to admit that Wallace was outfought at all points. From the first Dixon showed his superiority, and so marked was his cleverness that at the end of the fourth round Nunc’s chance to a good judge appeared, bar accidents, hopeless. Quick almost on thought Dixon, aided by his by immense reach, used left and right in telling fashion. The former hand was invariably delivered heavily on the ribs, but the right reached the head almost at the same time, and the blows had far more effect than many would have thought. At first he was certainly wild and over-anxious, but when once he settled down it was not necessary to look twice for the winner. A better two-handed fighter, combining quickness with punishing power, we have not seen in this country for years, and his staying power may be imagined when we say that after forcing the work for nearly an hour and a quarter he left the right as fresh as when he put on the gloved. To begin with, as stated, Dixon was terribly anxious and standing extremely wide he lost much of his height. No doubt Wallace’s reputation had much to do with the visitor’s caution at the outset, but having got the measure of his man the Bostonian had matters all his own way. A fairer fighter we never saw, and those who have robbed him of victory on the other side can never be claimed as sportsmen.

Time after time, when having the best of the business, he, in a manner worthy of the knights of old, reframed from following up his advantage, and as a fact, a good-tempered smile played across his features from first to last.

In writing of Dixon’s training we drew attention to his muscular development, length of reach, and staying power, and though we are again beaten and must perforce fly the flag half-mast high, we take our defeat like sportsmen, and acknowledge ourselves fairly beaten. And now a word for the loser, who we never forsake. Though giving away height and reach, Wallace held a record that have him pride of place in the quotations, and had the battle have been decided were each man could freely back his fancy, no end of money would have changed hands.

As far as could be seen “Nunc’s” condition was perfect, but notwithstanding this we are bound to admit he never to us showed to so little advantage. This only goes to show how a bright star fades before one of superior effulgence, as without a doubt Wallace fought his best. His rushes, however, were met with a stinging left, gaining more power by superior reach, whilst when he found himself beaten at out-fighting and went for the knock-out this was avoided by the extra cleverness of the American. To many Wallace’s show was terribly disappointing, but he and his friends may console themselves with the assurance that he has met his first defeat in a contest of any length at the hands of probably the best youngster in the world at his weight.

 

The rematch between George Dixon and Cal McCarthy
The sun., April 01, 1891, Page 3, Image 3
https://chroniclingamerica.loc.gov/...ixon&y=8&x=13&dateFilterType=yearRange&page=1

 

Thanks.

It took me way longer than I intended, I wasn't in the right mood for a while, past the 4th round was all typed today, so while I started over a month ago, it would've easilly been doable in a few days. Hopefully it won't take as long to do the Barry one (which is much shorter anyway)