When The USA's Greatest (and Last) Bareknuckle Boxer Challenged America to a Fight
Jul 14, 2025
10:49
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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 challenge to fight any man alive, Sullivan didn’t just win titles, he won the country’s attention in 1893 with his “Knockout Tour.” The challenge? Last 12 minutes in the ring with the champ and win.
Our American Stories