Why did Sullivan referee 'colored' title fights?

Discussion in 'Classic Boxing Forum' started by Melankomas, Dec 8, 2024.


  1. Melankomas

    Melankomas Prime Jeffries would demolish a grizzly in 2 Full Member

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    I've read that Sullivan, at the very peak of his career in both 1883 and 1888, referee'd George Godfrey's 'colored' title bouts. Why would he do this despite being so outspoken about his feelings on black people? How did the black fighters and spectators feel about Sullivan being there?