James Figg

from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
James Figg, c. 1727-1729

James Figg (* 1684 in Thame , Oxfordshire ; † December 8, 1734 ) was an English heavyweight boxer . He is considered the first recognized heavyweight champion in England.

Even if boxing was already taking place in England in the 17th century, Figg, who was also strong in other sports such as fencing, was able to establish himself as a generally recognized master from 1719 and found a boxing school. Back then you still fought bare-knuckle , i.e. with your bare fist without the protection of gloves.

He was good friends with William Hogarth , his sponsor was the Earl of Peterborough.

Figg resigned in 1734, and George Taylor, one of his students, declared himself the new master.

In 1992 Figg was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame .

Web links