Knuckles and Gloves

A historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores the evolution of boxing, tracing its origins from bare-knuckle prizefighting to the more regulated sport of gloved boxing we know today. It focuses on notable figures in boxing history, providing detailed accounts of legendary fights and the development of the sport's techniques and rules. The opening of the book presents a preface that provides a rich contextual background on the history of boxing in England, highlighting important figures such as John Broughton and Tom Cribb, and the societal views surrounding the sport. Lynch reflects on the transition from the brutality of bare-knuckle fighting to the rise of more scientific approaches, emphasizing the personalities involved and the varying perceptions of boxing throughout the years. The introduction sets the stage for an exploration of boxing's cultural significance and its place in the British sporting tradition, inviting readers to delve deeper into the world of pugilism and the characters who defined it.