JOHNSON, JACK-AL KAUFMAN SIGNED FIGHT CONTRACT (1909-PSA/DNA & SGC)

HISTORY: On September 9, 1909 at Coffroth's Arena in San Francisco world heavyweight champion Jack Johnson made his third defense of his title against Al Kaufman. Johnson, 8 years older than Kaufman, weighed in at 209 lbs to Kaufman's 191. On a blazing hot day Johnson dominated and won a ten round decision, although technically under the terms of the contract it was a no decision. The Indianapolis newspaper The Freeman reported that the world title was at stake. Before the bout, Referee Eddie Smith announced that he would give no decision if both men were on their feet at the end of the 10 rounds. Following the bout, Referee Eddie Smith said: "Johnson outfought, outhit and outgeneraled Kaufman all through the fight." A well-known San Francisco sporting authority was asked after the fight how Jim Jeffries, the retired former World Heavyweight Champion, would do against Johnson. He replied: "Jeffries will do well to stay in retirement. Johnson would probably leave the ring with his championship laurels. Johnson, in his battle with Kaufman, proved he is a master of the boxing game. There never was a time in the entire contest when the Californian had a chance. He was simply a chopping block for the champion." Offered here is the original fight contract for this match which has been signed by Jack Johnson, Kaufman's manager Morris Levy and James Coffroth. The contract is dated August 9, 1909 and lays out the basic term including naming the referee and conditions should the fight go to a decision. Authenticated by PSA/DNA, SGC and JO Sports, Inc.

FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original, one page, typed agreement on J. W. Coffroth's Enterprises letterhead. Signature are all bold in ink. Type is bold and clear and color remains bold. Staple holes on right edge, outside the contract. Edge and corner wear. Includes original folds. 8 1/2" x 8 1/2." Full letters from PSA/DNA, SGC and JO Sports, Inc. Extremely rare, the only fight contract of Jack Johnson we have seen.