SIKI, BATTLING REAL PHOTO POSTCARD (PARIS-1922)

Battling Siki faced Georges Carpentier for the world light heavyweight championship in 1922. Siki had compiled the impressive record of 43 wins in 46 bouts (21 KOs), suffering just one loss (on a decision) and two draws. Carpentier, the reigning World and European champion, agreed to fight Siki for the title, and they met in Paris, France, on September 24, 1922. Siki claimed that he had agreed to take a dive, but when Carpentier dropped Siki, the outraged African decided to get up and fight. Although he had agreed to throw the fight, he did not intend to get beat up doing so. In the sixth round Siki hit Carpentier with a powerful right uppercut that appeared to put Carpentier down and out for the count. The referee, however, claimed Siki had tripped Carpentier, and awarded the bout to the unconscious champion on a foul. Fearing a riot from the aroused crowd, the three ringside judges overruled the referee, and Siki was eventually declared the champion. Offered here is an original, real photo postcard of Battling Siki in Paris before his match with Carpentier.
This is an original, unused, real photo postcard picturing Siki and his supporters in period dress before the fight with Carpentier. Bold, clear image. Photographer stamp at bottom. Not creased or torn. Minor corner wear. 3 1/2" x 5 1/2." Rare, the only example we have seen.