My Universe

[JCWeb]

Finally, here are the pound-for-pound ratings as of year-end 1924, headed into 1925, ranked by Perf Pts (changes from last year in Parens):

1. Benny Leonard, LW (WBA Champ), 1668 (NC)
2. Gene Tunney, HW (WBA Champ), 1647 (NC)
3. Jack Dempsey, HW (NABF Champ), 1586 (NC)
4. Harry Greb, LHW (WBA Champ), 1566 (+3)
5. Harry Wills, HW (no titles), 1455 (+1)
6. Ted Kid Lewis, WW (WBA Champ), 1433 (new)
7. George Godfrey, HW (no titles), 1417 (+2)
8. Bryan Downey, MW (no titles), 1364 (new)
9. Mickey Walker, MW (no titles), 1339 (+1)
10. Lew Tendler, LW (no titles), 1323 (new)

Dropping out from last year are dethroned BW Champ Joe Lynch (was #4) and MWs Mike O'Dowd (was #5) and Panama Joe Gans (was #8). Ted Kid Lewis and Bryan Downey are appearing on the list for the first time, but Tendle was previously ranked #10 on the 1922 PFP list.

Leonard and Wills are each making their eighth appearance on the list, tied for the most, Wills appearing on the PFP list for eight consecutive years. Dempsey is making his seventh appearance on the list.

Three divisions (HW, MM and LW) dominate this year's list, as fighters from those divisions occupy eight of the ten slots. Perhaps because of the vagaries of the rankings system and also the thinness of the division, none of the great FLY champions (guys like Villa and Wilde) have made the list yet.

Will take a it of a break, perhaps one summary post listing all the current Champions, and then it's on to 1925.

[JCWeb]

Titleholders at end of 1924 (number of defenses in parens, along with date first won title belt)

HW
WBA: Gene Tunney (5, July 1923)
NABF: Jack Dempsey (3, Nov. 1923)
USBA: Fred Fulton (0, Mar. 1924)
CBU: Bartley Madden (1, Mar. 1924)
GBU: Phil Scott (0, Sept. 1924)
EBU: Erminio Spalla (0, Dec. 1924)
LHW
WBA: Harry Greb (3, Apr. 1924)
NABF: Tommy Gibbons (1, Jun. 1924)
USBA: Tommy Loughran (3, Nov. 1923)
CBU: Len Harvey (1, Apr. 1924)
GBU: Len Harvey (2, Dec. 1923)
EBU: Gypsy Daniels (0, Aug. 1924)
MW
WBA: Johnny Wilson (1, Jun. 1924)
NABF: Gordon McKay (0, Nov. 1924)
USBA: Joe Borrell (2, Sep. 1923)
CBU: Frank Moody (1, Dec. 1922)
GBU: Frank Moody (3, Sep. 1922)
EBU: Ted Moore (0, Jun. 1924)
WW
WBA: Ted Kid Lewis (5, Jun. 1923)
NABF: Pete Latzo (0, Nov. 1924)
USBA: Jack Sparr (0, Dec. 1924)
CBU: Bermondsey Billy Wells (2, Mar. 1924)
GBU: Hamilton Johnny Brown (0, Aug. 1923)
EBU: Piet Hobin (0, Sep. 1923)
OPBF: Paul Demsky (1, Apr. 1924)
JWW
WBA: Pinkey Mitchell (1, Jul. 1923)
USBA: Basil Galiano (0, Oct. 1924)
LW
WBA: Benny Leonard (9, Dec. 1922)
NABF: Clonie Tait (0, May 1924)
USBA: Andy Chaney (4, Jul. 1922)
CBU: Billy Grime (0, Dec. 1924)
GBU: Ernie Rice (2. Jul. 1922)
EBU: Benny Valgar (0, Apr. 1924)
JLW
WBA: Johnny Dundee (8, Dec. 1921)
USBA: Tod Morgan (0, Dec. 1924)
FW
WBA: Louis Kaplan (0, Oct. 1924)
NABF: Benny Bass (1, May 1924)
USBA: Mike Dundee (6, Dec. 1922)
CBU: Leo Roy (0, Jun. 1924)
GBU: Al Foreman (0, Oct. 1924)
EBU: Eugene Criqui (0, Aug. 1924)
OPBF: Elino Flores (1, Sep. 1923)
BW
WBA: Charles Ledoux (1, Jun. 1924)
NABF: Memphis Pal Moore (1, Dec. 1923)
USBA: Amos Carlin (0, Nov. 1924)
CBU: Johnny Brown (2, Nov. 1922)
GBU: Johnny Brown (1, Jul. 1923)
EBU: Harry Lake (0, May 1924)
OPBF: Pete Sarmiento (0, Dec. 1923)
FLY
WBA: Pancho Villa (9, May 1922)
NABF: Frankie Genaro (1, Jul. 1924)
USBA: Johnny Buff (0, Nov. 1924)
CBU: Jimmy Wilde (0, Dec. 1923)
GBU: Jimmy Wilde (1, Apr. 1923)
EBU: Jimmy Wilde (0, Apr. 1923)
OPBF: George Mendies (1, Aug. 1922)

Interesting. Over half the title belts (30 of 56) changed hands during 1924. Longest title run, going back to 1921, is JLW Champ Dundee. Only about 15% of the belts (9 of 56) have been held by the same fighter since 1922. ATG Benny Leonard (at 9) has made the most successful title defenses.

[JCWeb]

Jan. 16, 1925 -- Rome, Italy: German HW prospect Max Schmeling was back in the ring tonight, taking on Italian TC Giuseppe Bordin in his second pro bout, a scheduled four-rounder. It was Schmeling's first ring action since winning his debut in Germany in September of last year.

Round one, the Black Uhlan comes out trying to muscle his way inside. He connects with a cross and then waits for an opening. After some clinching, he fins the range with another cross, a strong jab, then lands a right flush on the chin of his opponent. Bordin appears overmatched as he retreats in a neutral corner. There's a flurry of activity right before the bell, Schmeling cuts loose with a hook to the head that appears to stagger Bordin. Strong opening round for the German.

Second round, alot of posturing but Schmeling keeps up the pressure by forcing the action on the inside. His first telling blow of the round is a strong shot that lands right below the ribcage, and Bordin drops to the canvas as if he'd been shot. The Italian makes a weak attempt to arise at the count of seven, but slumps back down and is counted out just 50 seconds into round two.

It's Schmeling's second KO win in as many bouts (he iced Fritz Anspach in one in his debut outing last year in Munich). His 2-0 (2) record is worth 283 PPs, but Schmeling's managers are bringing him around slowly, so he won't be seeing any more ring action until June of 1925.

[javier_83]

damn, we want to see mor of max xD

[JCWeb]

Just finished the final card of Jan 1925 in my Uni and wanted to announce that a landmark has been reached. Veteran LW Jack Blackburn fought in his 99th bout, lost a UD 10, but the important point is that, while he is at END career stage, he has not yet reached the point of a forced retirement, which means his next bout with be his 100th, so after over 40 years of boxing history rolled into one Uni, he will hold the distinction of being the first boxer to fight 100 bouts.

I would be willing to bet Benny Leonard, current LW Champ, is likely to become the second to hit the Century mark, but that is still several years off. (And not just years in Uni time, hehe ... ) Previous record among retired boxers for most bouts was FW great Abe Attell, at 93.

[JCWeb]

Feb. 12, 1925 -- Vancouver's Exhibition Stadium: Undefeated Canadian WW prospect Jimmy "Baby Face" McLarnin enters the ring in his first bout of 1925, taking on British TC Chris Dillingham (1-5-1) in a scheduled 8-rounder.

Round one, McLarnin starts cautiously on the outside, tries to land a roundhouse left that is sidestepped by Dillingham. Dillingham shoots a right, McLarnin works to the head and body. Dillingham misses; McLarnin unleashes a barrage of blows and bobs and weaves his way inside. Most of his punches are smothered by the defensive-minded Dillingham. McLarnin is a tad short with most of his punches, coming on near the end of the round to connect with a short hook to the ribs.

Round two, McLarnin moves inside to try to do some damage. He uses the jab to set up Dillingham for a cross, which lands flush and staggers his opponent. Dillingham is trapped against the ropes, and McLarnin lands another uppercut, then fires and misses and Dillingham escapes. Back at ring center, McLarnin lets loose with a hook that is wild. He continues to press forward and shoots a right home. Dillingham fights back, connecting with a hook to the head right before the bell.

Third round, more of the same as McLarnin presses the attack. He pops a jab and moves forward, hooking off the jab and working the body as well. Dillingham shifts tactics, pushing and shoving as the crowd booes. McLarnin uses a head feint to set his man up for a hook to the head, and the two trade blows as Dillingham begins to show signs of swelling about his left eye from the accumulated punches unleashed by his opponent.

Fourth round, McLarnin is looking to finish matters now. He finds the range with an uppercut to the chin. A right from McLarnin also connects. A jab sets up another shot that the defenseless Dillingham cannot avoid. He slumps to the canvas, arising at the count of eight. One minute left in the round, McLarnin connects with a straight right but is off target with his follow up punches and cannot end the matter.

Fifth round, McLarnin continues headhunting, looking for the KO. An uppercut scores for McLarnin, but Dillingham responds with a right over the defenses of the Canadian. "Baby Face" moves in behind a strong jab, backing up Dillingham with a cross. A hard shot to the top of the head has Dillingham stumbling, seeking refuge in a neutral corner. A hook to the head followed by a right cross, and Dillingham is down once again. The count reaches 10 just as the bell sounds. KO for McLarnin.

The win lifts McLarnin's record to 8-0, all KOs, worth 459 PPs and -- good news for his fans -- he's back in action in March 1925 against an opponent to be named later.

[Jersey-Jim]

Originally Posted by JCWeb

Just finished the final card of Jan 1925 in my Uni and wanted to announce that a landmark has been reached. Veteran LW Jack Blackburn fought in his 99th bout, lost a UD 10, but the important point is that, while he is at END career stage, he has not yet reached the point of a forced retirement, which means his next bout with be his 100th, so after over 40 years of boxing history rolled into one Uni, he will hold the distinction of being the first boxer to fight 100 bouts.

I would be willing to bet Benny Leonard, current LW Champ, is likely to become the second to hit the Century mark, but that is still several years off. (And not just years in Uni time, hehe ... ) Previous record among retired boxers for most bouts was FW great Abe Attell, at 93.

That's great to keep a universe going for that long. Even with the layoff's. Congrats on your guys hitting or coming close to the 100 mark!

[JCWeb]

March 6, 1925 -- Montreal Forum: Back in the ring quickly after his last bout in February, unbeaten Canadian WW prospect Jimmy "Baby Face" McLarnin was in action at the other end of the country, in Montreal, taking on another TC, winless Jay Ballard (0-8), in a scheduled 8-rounder. Only question before the bout: How long would Ballard manage to last?

Round one, McLarnin rocks his opponent with a cross within seconds of the opening bell. McLarnin presses forward, pinning his opponent against the ropes. Ballard leaves himself open for a hook to the head, and "Baby Face" follows up with a jab, then unleashes a barrage of blows, topped off by a strong uppercut. Ballard, obviously in big trouble, backpedals out of range and clinches when McLarnin moves inside to do more damage. McLarnin staggers Ballard with a big hook, and finally the ref steps in as a defenseless Ballard is clinging to the top rope. Good decision, TKO stoppage at 2:51 of round one.

McLarnin moves to 9-0 with his 9th successive KO win, and he now has 478 PPs. Next scheduled bout will be a 10-rounder in June 1925.

[JCWeb]

March 13, 1925 -- Atlantic City: It's a battle of two unbeaten LH prospects in the co-feature, 10-round bout at the Convention Hall. Popular NYC area LH "Slapsie Maxie" Rosenbloom, unbeaten in 12 bouts with 7 KOs, is paired with Battling Slim Ryan, aka "The Jewish Bomber," who has yet to taste defeat in 11 contests while registering 8 KOs. It promises to be Rosenbloom's toughest test to date in his fledgling career.

Round one: Rosenbloom scores with an uppercut, Ryan then uncorks an uppercut of his own that buckles Maxie's knees. Ryan follows up with a second uppercut. Rosenbloom is back on track with a left-right combination to the head of Slim. After some clinching, Ryan gets in another solid uppercut. Rosenbloom feints and unleashes a quick hook to the head. Ryan shoots home a jab, Maxie responds with a hook to the ribs. Slim Ryan lands another big uppercut and takes the round, according to most observers. The bout appears to be living up to its promise based on the non-stop action in round one.

Second round, both men stay on the outside. Rosenbloom flicks the jab and closes the range to land an uppercut. Ryan goes to the chest and neck of Rosenbloom. After some clutching and grabbing, Ryan connects with a crushing right to the jaw. Maxie winces, but double up with the hook to the body, one of which reaches its target. Ryan pins Rosenbloom in the corner, but not many scoring blows are landed. Fairly even round.

Round three, Ryan steps up the pace and works the inside while Maxie decides to stay outside. Rosenbloom works the jab, keeping Ryan at bay. An uppercut from way outside finds its target, forcing Ryan to the ropes. Rosenbloom pursues the opening, landing another uppercut. Ryan staggers Maxie with a three-punch combo. After a pause in the action, Rosenbloom circles the ring, connecting with some more jabs, setting up Ryan for a hook to the body. Strong round for Rosenbloom.

Fourth round, this time it's Rosenbloom pressing the action on the inside. Ryan swings and misses. Maxie launches a two-fisted attack, finishing with a crushing hook, and Ryan appears to feel the effects of that one. Slim battles back, unleashing a short hook inside, but Rosenbloom deftly works free and avoids being trapped in the corner. Ryan takes a step back, Rosenbloom connects with a short uppercut to the jaw. There's a short flurry right before the bell, and Ryan gets in a couple of quick jabs.

Round five sees some toe-to-toe action as both men whale away on the inside. Ryan throws a straight right, Rosenbloom responds with an uppercut, then a leaping shot from the Jewish Bomber finds the target. Ryan then throws a short hook to the midsection, taking the wind out of Rosenbloom. Maxie backpedals out of range, but Ryan unleashes another uppercut. Rosenbloom recovers to land a huge shot to the body, but at this point Ryan holds a slight edge (48-47 according to the unofficial scorecards).

Sixth round, Ryan is on the attack once again. Rosenbloom unleashes a flurry, Ryan retreats to a neutral corner. Not much action, and the two move back to ring center. Ryan is off target with a lead right. He is wild with the hook, and Rosenbloom bobs and weaves and scores with a hook. The two bump heads, then Ryan shoots home a cross. Rosenbloom, undeterred, responds with a hook to the head. Ryan connects with a cross right before the bell. Even round, lots of good action for the fight fans.

Round seven, Ryan is looking for the knockout now. Slim connects with an uppercut to the chin of Rosenbloom, but Maxie counters with a right cross. Ryan retreats, while Maxie shoots a jab to his chest. Ryan doubles up on his jab, but he is off target. Rosenbloom sticks a quick jab, bounces around the ring off the ropes. Ryan appears befuddled at this point. The bell sounds after a strong round for Rosenbloom, while Ryan's attack sputters.

Eighth round, both men appear to be a bit tired at this point. Ryan presses the inside attack, Rosenbloom uncorks a jab but Ryan responds with a cross. Rosenbloom then lands with a huge hook that causes Ryan to drop to the canvas. He bounces up at the count of eight, and with a minute and a half left, Rosenbloom tries to take advantage of this opportunity, but Ryan does a good job of covering up. Ryan wriggles off the hook and survives the round, despite the knockdown.

Round nine, Ryan goes all-out while Rosenbloom (confident of victory after the KD in round 8), adopts a more defensive posture. Rosenbloom flicks a jab, which becomes his main weapon at this point. Ryan unloads with an overhand right, but Rosenbloom is able to counter with a right cross. He continues circling the ring, a difficult target for Ryan to hit. Ryan scores with a cross, and the round ends -- difficult to tell who won that one.

Final round, the fighters touch gloves. Ryan is still looking to land a big haymaker. He plants an uppercut, Maxie responds with a hook to the body. A huge left by Ryan puts Rosenbloom on the defensive. A right cross followed by a left -- huge round for Ryan, but is it enough to make up for the knockdown in round eight? Final bell sounds, and we await for the judges' scores to be announced.

Final result: it's a split decision! One judge has it 96-93 for Rosenbloom, another 95-94 for Ryan and then -- the final judge -- also 96-93 for the winner, Slapsie Maxie Rosenbloom!!

The win moves Rosenbloom up to 13-0 (7), worth 565 PPs. After this unexpectedly close contest, Rosenbloom's principals need to reasses where he is in his career before matching him up for his 14th bout. The fans, of course, are clamoring for a rematch with Ryan.

[JCWeb]

As alluded to in a prior post, the first fighter in this Uni to have 100 fights is the veteran, Jack Blackburn. The bout took place April 3, 1925 in Toronto; Blackburn lost a UD 10 to top ten ranked Canadian LW, Clonie "T" Tait. Blackburn, who is now 42, has one more bout before hitting retirement later in 1925.

[javier_83]

wow, Maxie barely did it!!

he need to train more!!

[JCWeb]

(this one is for Javier's benefit)

June 12, 1925 -- Phoenix Arizona: The first Mexican fighter in my Uni, LW Joe Guerrero (aka "The Emsco Boy") made his debut with an impressive 4th round KO over TC Art Warner.

Now, earlier there was Aurelio Herrera, who was a US fighter of Hispanic/Mexican origin, but Guerrero is first fighter officially identified in the game as a Mexican. However, Javier and other fans should not get their hopes up, he's only rated a "2."

[JCWeb]

June 19, 1925 -- Vancover, BC, Exhibition Gardens: Unbeaten Canadian WW prospect Jimmy "Baby Face" McLarnin puts his perfect record (9-0, 9 KOs) on the line in his first scheduled 10-round bout, taking on veteran TC Mick Nixon, who has managed just one draw, no wins in 13 prior bouts (0-12-1).

First round, after a short feeling-out process, Nixon falls to connect with a looping short. McLarnin lands to the chest and neck. Nixon responds with a short hook to the head, then retreats to a neutral corner. "Baby Face" pursues Nixon, shooting home a right and then landing a blow that is part hook, part uppercut. McLarnin works the jab, is wild with a hook right before the bell. Good start for the Canadian, and the crowd roars in support.

Round two, McLarnin pressures Nixon on the inside. He staggers his opponent with a sharp combination, but then McLarnin winces with an injured hand, causing Jimmy to step off the gas. He shoots home the right, and then there is a short flurry of punches from Nixon. McLarnin counters with a right cross to the jaw, but Nixon responds with an uppercut right before the bell. The crowd is subdued, and McLarnin's corner is concerned about possible injury to their fighter's hand.

Third round, McLarnin elects to bide his time on the outside. A leaping shot from "Baby Face" is short. Nixon works inside and delivers an uppercut. McLarnin pops the jab, using it to set up an uppercut than stuns Nixon. McLarnin tries to follow up, but Nixon moves out of range. McLarnin pursues him, lashing out with a left-right combination, then following up with a right cross. The bell sounds, and McLarnin seems to have recovered from whatever may have bothered him in the prior round.

Round four, McLarnin boxes on the outside, again indicating a cautious approach. Nixon slips a cross from McLarnin, then lands a three-punch combo as McLarnin is off target with a follow-up punch. Then a short right from "Baby Face" gets through, and McLarnin doubles up on his left. Nixon is forced to give ground, bouncing off the ropes as the bell sounds.

Fifth round, McLarnin charges out from his corner and connects with a quick hook to the head. A cut opens above Nixon's right eye, and McLarnin takes advantage of the opportunity to step up the pace of his attack. A hook to the midsection and a big left leave Nixon looking vulnerable. A neat combination from McLarnin, and Nixon slumps to the canvas with a half minute left in the round. Nixon tries to get up at the count of eight, but can't get his footing and is counted out.

It goes down as another KO win for McLarnin at 2:38 of round five. He now is off to a stellar start, 10 KO victories in his first 10 bouts (worth 490 PPs). The initial report on the hand injury is that it's not serious, and McLarnin is expected to return to action in August 1925.

[JCWeb]

Polo Grounds, NY City, June 19, 1925 -- Unbeaten LH prospect "Slapsie Maxie" Rosenbloom, who escaped with a narrow SD win in his last bout, returns to the ring to take on LH Ernie Owens in a 10-rounder that is one of the main support bouts to the MW Championship bout featuring Mickey Walker. Owens, another RL LH opponent, has had an up and down career resulting in a 12-6 (11) mark thus far. Owens' best outing thus far was a TKO win over ex-LH Champ Jack Dillon. Shapes up to be an interesting contest.

Round one, Rosenbloom opens up with an uppercut to the jaw of Owens. Owens has a hook blocked by Rosenbloom, and Maxie responds with a hook of his own. Both men circle the inside, and there is alot of clinching. Owens ties Rosenbloom up in the corner, but Maxie works free to blast home another hook. Not much action for the rest of the round, but what little there is is all Rosenbloom.

Round two, both men work from the outside. Owens flings a left from outside, and then two trade blows. Rosenbloom gets the better of the action, registering an uppercut to the chin of Owens. Owens, undeterred, staggers Maxie with a jolting uppercut. He can't follow up, allowing Rosenbloom some precious time to clear his head and recover. Rosenbloom splits the gloves with a jab. Owens connects with a jab, but Rosenbloom gets in another uppercut. Lots of action in what was an even round.

Third round, Owens tries his luck on the inside, Maxie boxes on the outside. Both men work the jab, then a wicked right by Owens causes Rosenbloom to retreat to the neutral corner. Rosenbloom battles back to score with a hook to the head. Rosenbloom measures his man with a couple of penetrating jabs. Owens is wild with a hook. Rosenbloom continues to work the jab, strong round for Maxie.

Fourth round, this time it's Rosenbloom who looks to force the action on the inside. Rosenbloom bulls his way inside, forcing Owens to retreat and then unleashing a huge uppercut. Owens tries to double up on the hook but Rosenbloom bobs and weaves his way out of range. Maxie then flicks a couple of jabe, is tied up by Owens, then launches a two-fisted attack, while Owens fires a right that misses. Good round for Rosenbloom.

Round five, good toe-to-toe action as both men like their chances on the inside. Rosenbloom uses a head feint to set up a probing jab. Owens continues to lumber forward, but the nimble Rosenbloom punishes him with a hook to the body. Rosenbloom continues to flick the jab, then works the head and body and follows with a hook to the ribs. Halfway through, the unofficial scorecard has Rosenbloom up, 49-46.

Sixth round, Owens gets more aggressive while Maxie works outside. Rosenbloom pops the jab as Owens starts to tire. A cross hits home for Rosenbloom. Owens is trapped in the corner, but works free as Maxie mis-times a volley of punches. A short hook on the inside scores for Rosenbloom. Owens is wild with a hook. Rosenbloom misses with a left. Another good scoring round for Rosenbloom.

Round seven, Owens continues to press the action as Rosenbloom adopts a defensive posture. Rosenbloom backs up, finding room to clock an onrushing Owens with an uppercut. Maxie shoots a hook to the body, while Owens struggles with his timing. Rosenbloom uncorks a blow that is part hook, part uppercut. Another strong round for Maxie.

Eighth round, Rosenbloom scores with a hook to the body. Owens is tiring badly now. Rosenbloom attacks the head and body, Owens flicks a short hook inside that doesn't have much on it. A flurry by Rosenbloom, who continues to pile up points.

Round nine, Maxie avoids a leaping shot from Owens and then doubles up on the jab, circling the ring. Owens scores while Rosenbloom continues with a defensive posture. Even round, but Owens is trailing badly now.

Final round, the tenth, and a desperate Owens lunges at Rosenbloom, who easily sidesteps a wild right. Owens works the head and body on the inside, and finally the final bell. Good, solid effort by Rosenbloom.

The scorecards are a foregone conclusion: 96-94, 100-90, 99-91, all for Maxie Rosenbloom, whose record now stands at 14-0 (8), worth 609 PPs.

[JCWeb]

June 26, 1925 -- Rome, Italy -- Young German HW Max Schmeling takes on another young HW prospect, local favorite Arthur De Kuh, at the Sports Palace here tonight. Both are undefeated (Schmeling at 2-0, 2 KO; DeKuh at 3-0, 2 KO) headed into the 6-round bout. DeKuh should have a hometown crowd behind him, but since he's only rated a "2", that might not be enough when facing a talented fighter like Schmeling.

Round one: DeKuh looks to trade blows on the inside, while Schmeling is content to fight outside. Schmeling shows good side-to-side movement, then rips a hook to the body of DeKuh. The German is warned for hitting low. The "Black Uhlan" lands a solid combination, then DeKuh unloads with a big left that is sidestepped by Max. DeKuh retreats to a neutral corner, where he is tagged by a glancing cross from Schmeling. A follow-up hook is blocked by DeKuh. A late flurry scores for Schmeling, who takes the opening round.

Second round, Schmeling starts to pressure DeKuh on the inside. After a brief exchange, DeKuh ties up the big German, who manages to get a hand free to score with an uppercut. DeKuh is tagged by a straight right, and Schmeling follows with a left-right and another left. A straight right from Schmeling bounces off the Italian's shoulder. DeKuh tries to double up on his left but round two is another strong one for Schmeling.

Round three, both men stay outside. Schmeling rips a right cross that finds its target. A short uppercut from Schmeling also lands. DeKuh opens up, and inviting target for Schmeling who continues to pour it on as the bell sounds. DeKuh's right eye is starting to puff up.

Round four, this time Schmeling is on the attack, looking to finish DeKuh. Schmeling uses the jab to set up a right to the head that staggers DeKuh. A hook to the side of DeKuh scores for Schmeling. A leaping shot from Max falls short. DeKuh is carrying his hands low now. A sharp combination also connects, and DeKuh is lucky is lucky to be standing at the end of the round.

Fifth round, both men look to connect from the inside. DeKuh lands a right cross, then follows up with a jolting uppercut. Schmeling connects with a hook to the head. Schmeling is wild with a second hook, but then he lands an uppercut. DeKuh evades a Schmeling jab, but he walks into a right hand that lands flush on the chin, sending the Italian to the canvas. DeKuh is up quickly, and Schmeling dishes out more punishment in the form of a right cross to the forehead. Ouch, that hurt! But DeKuh, once again, survives another huge onslaught from the big German.

Final round, DeKuh is going all out while Schmeling continues to press on the inside. He sidesteps a left from DeKuh, then has a combination that is blocked. DeKuh scores with a three-punch combo, but it is a case of too little, too late. DeKuh's punches lack steam, and they are almost all off target now. Schmeling ties him up, scores with the uppercut. Final bell, and Schmeling raises his arms in triumph.

Judge's scorecards, even here in Italy, show a UD 6 for Schmeling (58-55, 60-53, 60-53). Max moves to 3-0 (2 KOs) worth 328 PPs and will still be brought along slowly by his managers.

[JCWeb]

August 28, 1925 -- Vancouver, BC, Exhibition Gardens: Tonight's feature bout matches hot WW prospect, Canada's own Jimmy "Baby Face" McLarnin, who puts his perfect 10-0 record on the line versus veteran Alex Trambitas, who sports a 24-9-5 (8) career mark, making him McLarnin's toughest and most experienced opponent in the fighter's young career.

Round one, the crowd is on its feet as the two men touch gloves and exchange blows in ring center. McLarnin whiffs on a combination, and Trambitas connects with a jab. McLarnin lands to the head and neck of his opponent. Trambitas misses. McLarnin works to the head and body. Trambitas retreats to a neutral corner. Trambitas is warned for repeated low blows. McLarnin tries to take advantage, but is off target with his uppercut. Fairly even first round.

Second round, "Baby Face" tries to pressure Trambitas on the inside. Trambitas works the jab. A cross scores for McLarnin. Trambitas connects with a right cross of his own, and McLarnin is just short with his jab. A second jab grazes the chest of Trambitas. Trambitas shoots home the left. There is much clutching and grabbing, some head-butting, a hook to the head by McLarnin right before the bell. Another close round.

Round three, both men elect to box on the outside. McLarnin uses the jab to set up a left hand that lands squarely. Trambitas scores with a right cross. "Baby Face" plants an uppercut on the chin of Trambitas, and the partisan crowd roars. Trambitas bounces out of range, flicking a quick jab. McLarnin finishes the round strongly, ripping a hook to the head and following with another jolting uppercut on the inside.

Fourth round, Trambitas tries his luck on the inside while McLarnin is content to stay outside. Not much action, McLarnin rips a hook to the head, then follows with a short hook to the ribs. Trambitas backs up, unleashes a combination, McLarnin counters with a right to take the round.

Fifth round, both men whale away on the inside. McLarnin opens up with a quick hook to the head. Trambitas is wild with a hook. McLarnin uses the jab to set up a powerful cross. "Baby Face" shoots home a right, then there is some jockeying for position on the inside. McLarnin lands a right hand flush on the jaw of his struggling opponent. Trambitas is shaken but manages to hang on. Halfway through, it's a clear 48-47 lead for McLarnin, and Trambitas is showing signs of swelling around his right eye.

Round six, McLarnin is looking to finish his opponent. McLarnin lands a hard jab but Trambitas drifts out of range. Another jab, and this time Trambitas retreats to a neutral corner. A big left from McLarnin is sidestepped by his crafty foe, who has cleared his head. A straight right from McLarnin is blocked by Trambitas, who scores with an uppercut right before the bell.

Seventh round, Trambitas becomes more aggressive but is also starting to tire. His lead right is smothered by McLarnin, who fights more defensively. Not much action for most of the round.

Round eight, both men come out aggressively looking for the knockout. Trambitas clinches, but McLarnin breaks free and drives Trambitas into the ropes with a solid uppercut. A couple of more right hands get through in a big round for "Baby Face" McLarnin.

Ninth round, Trambitas is on the attack as he is trailing badly on points now. McLarnin turns the tables, pinning Trambitas on the ropes and pummeling him with a right-left combination to the head. Trambitas clinches, breaks free, but McLarnin follows up a jab with a strong lead right. Another big round for the Canadian fan favorite.

Final round, another all-out effort by Trambitas. McLarnin uses his jab effectively, keeping the American at bay. Trambitas gets lucky with a hook to the head, and after a long clinch, the bell finally sounds.

The reading of the scorecards are a mere formality, it goes down as a UD 10 for McLarnin (98-91, 98-91, 97-92) but it marks the first time the Canadian has been forced to go the distance. His career record moves to 11-0 (10 KOs), worth 526 PPs.

[JCWeb]

August 28, 1925 -- Polo Grounds, NYCity: The final big fight card of the summer features two WBA Title Bouts but the main support bout on the undercard features unbeaten LH prospect and a local fan favorite, "Slapsie" Maxie Rosenbloom, who puts his 14-0 career mark on the line against another top prospect, LH Eddie Huffmanm in a scheduled 10-round bout. Huffman enters with an excellent 10-1 record, his only defeat coming at the hands of another top LH prospect, unbeaten knockout artist Paul Berlenbach (aka "The Astoria Assassin"). Should be an interesting contest.

Round one, Rosenbloom works to the head and body. Maxie shows good ring movement as well, and he unleashes a torrent of punches and flicks the jab at the unperturbed Huffman. Maxie sneaks in an uppercut, and Huffman sticks a jab to the chest of Rosenbloom. Rosenbloom dominates the action for the rest of the round, working the head and body of Huffman, landing some good left-right combinations.

Bell sounds for round two. Both men elect to stay on the outside. Rosenbloom lands a glancing shot on the shoulder of Huffman. Huffman uses his jab to set up an uppercut inside, his first effective blow of the fight thus far. Rosenbloom lands to the chest and neck, then clutches and grabs, and Huffman backs up into a neutral corner. Rosenbloom can't find the range with a combination, and Huffman lets loose with a short hook to the midsection. This seems to quiet the crowd, and Huffman seems to have a slight advantage here in round two.

Third round, Huffman comes out pressing the action on the inside. Rosenbloom is off first, scoring with a hook to the head. Huffman is wild with a right hand. A straight right from Rosenbloom grazes Huffman's shoulder. Huffman lands a punch that is part hook, part uppercut. Maxie rips off a quick volley. Rosenbloom unleashes an uppercut from way outside that seems to surprise his opponent. Maxie misses with a right-left combination. A stinging jab connects for Rosenbloom, then Maxie follows with a short hook to take the round. The crowd roars its approval.

Round four, Maxie applies the pressure on the inside. Rosenbloom connects with a flurry of punches. There is some good action, with Rosenbloom working the jab, Huffman firing back with a right. Rosenbloom is short with a leaping shot, while Huffman connects with an uppercut. Maxie works the head and body, Huffman is just short with a right hand. Rosenbloom retreats against the ropes, and Huffman tries to work the body. Rosenbloom punctuates the round with a quick uppercut, and it appears this round also goes into Maxie's column.

Fifth round, both men whale away on the inside in some toe-to-toe action. Huffman surprises Rosenbloom with a huge shot. Maxie, sensing trouble, elects to cover up with two minutes left in the round. Huffman is just short with his jab. He tries to bob and weave his way inside, but his timing is off, giving Rosenbloom enough time to recover and clear his head. Rosenbloom then lets his guard down and is felled by a hook to the head. The count reaches eight before Maxie arises. The bell sounds shortly thereafter, but it's a clear 10-8 round for Huffman, making it 47-all at this point, according to the unofficial ringside observer.

Round six, Huffman is looking for a knockout. Maxie adopts a defensive posture. Rosenbloom works his jab, Huffman hurts Maxie with a crushing hook. Rosenbloom slides along the ropes, trying to stay away from Huffman's power. Maxie counters with a hook to the body, but then he's warned for low blows by the ref, Abe Goldstein. Huffman scores with a strong left hook. Rosenbloom looks vulnerable, but he manages to stay afoot to recover in what looks like an even round.

Seventh round, Huffman is once again trying to force the action on the inside. Rosenbloom unleashes an uppercut, while Huffman is struggling to find his timing. Both men appear to be tiring now. Rosenbloom shoots a jab, Huffman is wild with a hook. Rosenbloom finds the range with a hook to the head, then Huffman unleashes an uppercut to the jaw. Rosenbloom appears to be winning the round, but then the ref calls him for a head butt right before the bell.

Round eight, Huffman remains the aggressor heading into the late rounds. Rosenbloom repeatedly works off the jab, sticking and moving, while Huffman appears to be flat-footed. Rosenbloom is warned for holding and hitting, and while he appears to be winning at this point, it's unclear what effect these repeated warnings from the ref might have on the scoring.

Two rounds left. Rosenbloom adopts a defensive posture. Rosenbloom doubles up on the jab, then sneaks home a right cross that lands flush. Rosenbloom picks off a jab from Huffman, but misses with a follow-up shot. A big left from Huffman is side-stepped by Maxie. Rosenbloom sticks the jab to the chest and neck of his opponent. Huffman appears confused, and Rosenbloom finishes the round with a two-punch combo that is also right on target. Huge round for Rosenbloom.

Final round. All-out attack by Huffman, defensive role by Rosenbloom. Rosenbloom sticks out a jab that is blocked by Huffman, who retaliates with a jab of his own. A follow-up cross scores for Eddie. Rosenbloom counters with a nice combination, but is wild with a hook. A big left by Maxie misses, and he is also off-target with a jab. A short uppercut scores for Rosenbloom in a clinch, but then Maxie is cut above the right eye. Hard to tell who won the final round, but the crowd roars its approval, expecting another win for Rosenbloom, albeit in a really close bout.

It takes a few minutes to clear the ring, and the scorecards are collected. Final result: A majority draw! (94-94, 96-92 Huffman, 94-94). Apparently the 10-8 round with the knockdown, plus a one-point deduction for one of the fouls cost Maxie the decision in this one.

Rosenbloom's career record now stands at 14-0-1 (8), worth 607 PPs. He will now be ranked among the top 15 LHs. But, given the result, can a rematch with Huffman be in the offing?

[JCWeb]

Dateline September 25, 2008 -- The Olympia, London, England: Unbeaten HW prospect Max Schmeling travels here for his fourth career bout, a scheduled six-rounder versus TC Roger Stout, who has one win (versus a fellow TC) in three prior bouts.

Round one, Schmeling comes out firing as he wings a hook that forces Stout to retreat to a neutral corner. Schmeling follows up with another hook, putting his opponent on the defensive. The powerful German presses the attack, using a jab to set up a right cross. Another jab, then a powerful uppercut leaves Stout helpless against the ropes. Schmeling staggers Stout with a well-timed cross, and then the ref steps in to save the hapless TC from further punishment. It's all over after just 2:28 of the initial round.

The TKO win lifts Schmeling to 4-0 (3 KOs), good for 364 PPs.

[JCWeb]

October 3, 1925 -- Vancouver, BC, Canada's Exhibition Gardens: Highly regarded WW prospect Jimmy "Baby Face" McLarnin goes for his 12th win in succession, taking on veteran TC Dave Dawson. Dawson, who has been around the block a few times, has won just four of his 23 career bouts.

Round one, McLarnin opens the action with a stinging jab, pushing Dawson away and following with a heavy blow to the body which the ref rules is a foul. After a brief respite, the action continues. McLarnin seems a bit off in his timing, flicking a few left-right combinations that have little effect. Dawson connects with a few jabs, otherwise not much action, it seems McLarnin has done just enough to take the round but his fans are a bit restless as the foul call seems to have caused him to lose some momentum.

Second round, McLarnin is content to work the outside. Jimmy works off the ropes, but is off target with a leaping shot, then a right hand connects, forcing Dawon to retreat. After some clutching and grabbing, McLarnin rips a short hook to the ribs, then stalks his opponent for the rest of the round. Still struggling with his timing, but a good finish to the round for McLarnin who finds the range with a strong right cross.

Round three, this time McLarnin tries to force the action on the inside while it is Dawson content to trade blows on the outside. McLarnin connects with an uppercut, then uses the jab to keep his opponent off guard. McLarnin controls the action for the rest of the round, as Dawson's body sags noticeably after a delayed reaction to a solid hook to the head. Then another uppercut and a strong jab, and Dawson is reeling from the accumulated effect of McLarnin's unanswered blows. One more right and ref Jimmy Gardiner has seen enough. TKO for McLarnin at 2:45 of round three.

The win lifts McLarnin to 12-0 (11 KOs), worth 540 PPs.

Due to some management conflicts, McLarnin's next bout is not going to take place until early 1926, some three months hence.

[JCWeb]

November 6, 1925 -- Chicago's Soldier Field: Tonight's prelim bout features the career debut of LW prospect Tony Canzoneri, aka "The Roman Warrior," in a four-rounder versus TC Art Gilkey, who is also making his debut.

Round one: Canzoneri works outside, looking to establish his jab. Gilkey can't find the range as Canzoneri bounces a jab off his shoulder, then follows with a strong right cross. A huge left connects for Tony as Gilkey becomes no more than a punching bag. Canzoneri works the head and body, flicks a couple of more jabs, then a big left right before the bell. Huge points round for Canzoneir.

Second round, an increasingly confident Canzoneri moves inside, stalking his hapless foe. Canzoneri scores with an effective right cross. He then cuts off Gilkey's retreat, nailing him with a jab, then working the head and body of Gilkey. Gilkey retreats to a neutral corner in order to avoid further punishment. Another strong round for Canzoneri, and Gilkey's left eye is already showing signs of swelling.

Round three, Canzoneri moves inside, fires a hook to the body and then a stinging shot to the ribs that causes Gilkey to wince. Another right and then a hook to the head. Gilkey is tiring now, holding his hands low. An uppercut scores for Canzoneri, then a strong right hand staggers Gilkey. The ref has seen enough and moves into call a halt.

Canzoneri wins by TKO at 2:06 of round three. The win puts him at 244 PPs. He plans on returning to the ring again in January 1926.