FITZSIMMONS, ROBERT-PETER MAHER II POLICE GAZETTE SUPPLEMENT (1896)

HISTORY: On February 21, 1896 near Langtry, Texas future world heavyweight champion Robert Fitzsimmons fought Peter Maher. Fitzsimmons knocked Maher out in the first round. They wore 5-ounce gloves. This bout was billed for the world heavyweight title & for the National Police Gazette Championship Belt. Held near Langtry, TX, in Coahuila, Mexico. Judge Roy Bean was responsible for bringing Maher and Fitzsimmons together. Bean thumbed his nose at the Texas Rangers and Mexican authorities by holding the bout on a sandbar in the Rio Grande river. This was done to thwart the authority of the Rangers and made it impossible for the Mexicans to gain access to his location. Spectators were brought in on a special train and a footbridge was constructed to allow easier access to the sandbar. Alcohol flowed and the wagers were made. Weights were from the Brooklyn Daily Eagle. The men would fight a three-round exhibition at Madison Square Garden February 29, 1896. Offered here is an original Police Gazette Supplement dated February 1, 1896 depicting the two fighters in a graphic square off pose before the fight.

FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original, paper, Police Gazette Supplement dated February 1, 1896 depicting the two fighters in a graphic square off pose before the fight. Bold color and print. Bold, clear images. Mounted on board. Original creases are evident. Small stains on right edge. Edge wear. Toning from age. Matted for protection. 16" x 23."