On this episode of Our American Stories, before gloves, rules, or weight classes, there was John L. Sullivan: a powerhouse brawler who became America’s last bare-knuckle boxing champion. With fists of steel and a standing challenge to fight any man alive, Sullivan didn’t just win titles; he won the country’s attention. In 1893, he launched his infamous “Knockout Tour,” daring challengers to last just 12 minutes in the ring with the champ for a cash prize.

Christopher Klein, a historian and journalist, shares the story of boxing’s first true superstar and the spectacle that made John L. Sullivan a national sensation.

Support the show (https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)

On this episode of Our American Stories, before gloves, rules, or weight classes, there was John L. Sullivan: a powerhouse brawler who became America&rsquo;s last bare-knuckle boxing champion. With fists of steel and a standing challenge to fight any man alive, Sullivan didn&rsquo;t just win titles; he won the country&rsquo;s attention. In 1893, he launched his infamous &ldquo;Knockout Tour,&rdquo; daring challengers to last just 12 minutes in the ring with the champ for a cash prize.
Christopher Klein, a historian and journalist, shares the story of boxing&rsquo;s first true superstar and the spectacle that made John L. Sullivan a national sensation.
Support the show (<a href="https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)">https://www.ouramericanstories.com/donate)</a>

Our American Stories tells stories that aren’t being told. Positive stories about generosity and courage, resilience and redemption, faith and love. Stories about the past and present. And stories about ordinary Americans who do extraordinary things each and every day. Stories from our listeners about their lives. And their history. In that pursuit, we hope we’ll be a place where listeners can refresh their spirit, and be inspired by our stories.

Our American Stories

America’s Last Bareknuckle Fighter Took on the Nation—And Won

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/c41818ba-0884-4d98-b399-b3cb01580c59/transcript

Advertisement