[CONN CHRIS]

Nice additions, thanks SAL!


ROBERT "Bobby" DOBBS LW

Birthplace - Cartersville, Georgia, USA

109(67)-36-32; 9 NC (Dobbs claimed to have fought over 1,000 bouts)

Bobby Dobbs began as a wrestler and boxer with a traveling health and fitness show while he was in his teens. He was known to be a popular draw on the boxing circuit and was described as quick, agile and clever. At 26, He fought for his first official title, the Massachusetts Middleweight Crown. Dick O'Brien won on a TKO in the 18th round of a bout that lasted one hour and nineteen minutes.

The two years following the Massachusetts title fight saw Bobby defeat Charley Johnson and a young Philadelphia Jack O'Brien as well as battle to a NC with Joe Walcott and a draw in a second bout with O'Brien. In 1897, the crowning moment of Dobbs career came as he defeated Joe Gans to claim the World Colored Lightweight Title. Although he never again fought for a major title, Dobbs had an impressive career, drawing with Charley Johnson and fighting well in losing battles with Gans, Walcott, Rube Ferns and Matty Matthews. In 1901, Dobbs and Young Peter Jackson staged a three bout series that saw Dobbs win the first and draw in the second two. The third bout between the two was held in Hot Springs, AR and was refereed by Bat Masterson of OK Coral fame.

While in his forties, Dobbs went on a brief tour of Europe facing mostly local talent but did battle in two 20 round losses to well-known European lightweights Waldemar Holberg and Dick Nelson. After retiring, Dobbs kept in the game by training other fighters.