Bare Knuckle Fighting

Bare knuckle fighting, also known as fisticuffs, got its start in the 1700's and was popular in the 1800's. This type of fighting is making a comeback today amongst street brawler types, and is incorporated into various forms of fighting; such as judo kick-boxing. The difference between professional bare -knuckle fighting and contemporary professional boxing is the use of boxing gloves, and a variance of rules. The record for the longest bare-knuckle fight lasted six hours and fifteen minutes, between James Kelly and Jack Smith in Melbourne, Australia on October 19, 1856.

The boxers from the late 19^th century were rough two-fisted brawlers, who acquired their training on the streets, fighting with all their brawn against bullies, thieves, and for a woman's honor. They learned to fight by fighting as street fighters first, and incorporated this raw style into sport. The fighters back then had to be tough, for they fought without the protective gear, such as mouth pieces and gloves.

Some gentlemen arose from the mist of brawling heathens. The ones who made an actual profession out of it were as revered as the heavyweights of today. Back then there were lightweight fighter's who were the quickest on their feet, and two very famous fighters called "Gentleman Jim" Corbett, and John L. Sullivan had the skills, speed and strength. One of the most famous bare knuckle fights was in 1892 when Gentleman Jim Corbett knocked out Sullivan, who had previously remained undefeated.

My great great Grandfather Tobias Chiefo also fought Sullivan, taking him more than a few rounds. Tobias Chiefo was an Italian transplant, who settled in Cliffside Park, New Jersey. He was a hard-working man, who took care of his whole family, and had many interesting hobbies and professions; first as a bare knuckle fighter, then as post master, a police chief--who ran the mafia out of town--and later, he became a grocery store and bar owner.

For many immigrants like my great great Grandfather, fighting was a way to a means. If they made the professional level, that was considered a glorious achievement, quite similar to the boxers of today who reach professional status. Many immigrants did not speak English when first arriving in America. In my Grandfather's case, he spoke English very well, and only spoke English, often chastising the Italian only speaking boxers by saying "Your in America, you speak English now!"

Though he did not go onto an illustrious boxing career, the skills Tobias Chiefo learned as a boxer, coupled with the positive character strengths of the man in general, not only enabled him to face Sullivan and take him a few rounds, but also enabled "Grandpa Chiefo" to be the man that he was; a tough man, a strong man, and a good man; one with a true fighting spirit.

Sources:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bare-knuckle_boxing