Madison Square Garden (1) "Great Roman Hippodrome" January 19th, 1885
John L. Sullivan v. Paddy Ryan
Billed as an "Illustrated Lecture" (4 Rounds)
Back Story: Down on his financial luck Paddy Ryan was done a kind by the Great John L. Sullivan who staged for his opponent/friend a payday opportunity at the Garden.
New York City would allow the 'exhibition" but warned that no 'fighting' would be tolerated. (pre-Horton)**
For half a round the two greats tried to 'exhibit' their skills, but when Ryan clipped Sullivan a little too hard a 'fight' broke out.'
New York Times: Sullivan and Ryan meet
P.S. The events at the ticket window paints a vivid picture of the true ambiance surrounding prize fights circa 1880.
** The Horton Law was one year away; in 1885 'fighting' was still prohibited in New York under the criminal code, as a misdemeanor (assault). One source argues that the fight was only raided because the promoters failed to 'pay respect' to Honest John Kelly (Tammany Hall Politician).
John L. Sullivan v. Paddy Ryan
Billed as an "Illustrated Lecture" (4 Rounds)
Back Story: Down on his financial luck Paddy Ryan was done a kind by the Great John L. Sullivan who staged for his opponent/friend a payday opportunity at the Garden.
New York City would allow the 'exhibition" but warned that no 'fighting' would be tolerated. (pre-Horton)**
For half a round the two greats tried to 'exhibit' their skills, but when Ryan clipped Sullivan a little too hard a 'fight' broke out.'
New York Times: Sullivan and Ryan meet
P.S. The events at the ticket window paints a vivid picture of the true ambiance surrounding prize fights circa 1880.
** The Horton Law was one year away; in 1885 'fighting' was still prohibited in New York under the criminal code, as a misdemeanor (assault). One source argues that the fight was only raided because the promoters failed to 'pay respect' to Honest John Kelly (Tammany Hall Politician).
Comment