Battling Nelson

Oscar Matthew "Battling" Nelson (June 5, 1882 – February 7, 1954), was a Danish-born American professional boxer who held the World Lightweight championship. He was also nicknamed "the Durable Dane".

Battling Nelson
Nelson c. 1900s
Born
Oscar Mathæus Nielsen

(1882-06-05)5 June 1882
Copenhagen, Denmark
Died7 February 1954(1954-02-07) (aged 71)
NationalityAmerican
Other namesThe Durable Dane
Statistics
Weight(s)Lightweight
StanceOrthodox
Boxing record
Total fights134
Wins69
Wins by KO40
Losses33
Draws27
1911 cartoon of Nelson and his future wife Fay King, drawn by herself for his guide The wonders of the Yellowstone National Park.
Marker commemorating the 1906 Gans-Nelson fight.

Personal history

Nelson was born Oscar Mathæus Nielsen in Copenhagen, Denmark, on June 5, 1882. He emigrated to the United States the following year and was raised in Hegewisch, a neighborhood on the Southeast side of Chicago.

In 1913, he married Fay King, a cartoonist who did his portrait for Nelson's 1911 guide The Wonders of the Yellowstone National Park.[1] In 1916, they had a very public divorce.[2][3]

Nelson died February 7, 1954, in Chicago, Illinois, from lung cancer.[4] The Veteran Boxing Association paid for part of the cost of his funeral; his ex-wife paid the remainder, in addition to purchasing "beautiful arrangements" for the ceremony.[5]

Boxing career

Nelson began boxing professionally at age fourteen, in 1896. He fought for the vacant lightweight title against Jimmy Britt on December 20, 1904, but lost a twenty-round decision. He lost to Abe Attell in 1905, but his win over Jack O'Neill secured him another shot at the world championship. On September 9, 1905, Nelson finally beat Britt in a knockout in the 18th round of a 45-round bout.

He defeated Terry McGovern in a no-decision Newspaper decision, but then faced a greater challenge when he faced off against the reigning world lightweight champion Joe Gans on September 3, 1906, in Goldfield, Nevada. Gans dropped Nelson repeatedly during the bout, but could not knock him out. Finally, in the forty-second round, Nelson hit Gans below the belt causing him to lose the fight by disqualification.

In 1907 and 1908, Nelson split a pair of bouts with Britt and fought Attell to a draw. He then challenged Gans again for the world lightweight title on July 4, 1908. This time he knocked Gans out in the seventeenth round. Two months later, Nelson knocked out Gans in the twenty-first round.

In 1909, Nelson fought Ad Wolgast in a fight held over the lightweight limit. Wolgast beat him, and Nelson gave Wolgast a chance at his title on February 22, 1910. Eventually unable to see due to the accumulation of punches, Nelson lost the title when the referee stopped the fight in either the fortieth or the forty-second round.[6]

Nelson continued to fight, and in 1917, he challenged Freddie Welsh for the lightweight title. He lost a twelve-round decision and retired from fighting in 1920.

He was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1992.

In 2016, award-winning biographer Mark Allen Baker published the first comprehensive biography of Nelson with McFarland, a leading independent publisher of academic and nonfiction books.

Motion pictures of Nelson's fights

A motion picture of the second Gans-Nelson fight in Colma, California, was shown in theaters across the country. Above, reporter-artist Marguerite Martyn sketched her impression of women watching the fight in St. Louis, Missouri, in October 1908.

The second Gans-Nelson battle in Colma was the subject of a four-reel motion picture that played in major cities around the country.

Professional boxing record

All information in this section is derived from BoxRec,[7] unless otherwise stated.

Official record

134 fights59 wins20 losses
By knockout403
By decision1916
By disqualification01
Draws22
No contests5
Newspaper decisions/draws28

All newspaper decisions are officially regarded as “no decision” bouts and are not counted in the win/loss/draw column.

No.ResultRecordOpponentTypeRoundDateLocationNote
134Loss59–20–22 (33)Freddie WelshNWS12Apr 17, 1917Coliseum, Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S.World lightweight title at stake;
(via KO only)
133Win59–20–22 (32)Pierce MatthewsTKO8 (12)Mar 17, 1917Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S.
132Loss58–20–22 (32)Jimmy ReaganPTS10Nov 5, 1915 20th Century A.C., Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
131Loss58–19–22 (31)Bobby WaughPTS20Sep 6, 1915 Plaza de Toros, Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico
130Win58–18–22 (31)Dale GardnerKO2 (?)Apr 24, 1915Havana, Cuba
129Win57–18–22 (31)Jimmy FryerPTS25Mar 24, 1915Havana, Cuba
128Win56–18–22 (31)Stewart DonnellyKO3 (?)Mar 18, 1915Havana, Cuba
127Win55–18–22 (31)Cliff FordPTS6Aug 19, 1913Soo Opera House, Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, U.S.
126Loss54–18–22 (31)Ad WolgastNWS10Oct 13, 1913Southside A.A., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
125Loss54–18–22 (30)Pat BradleyNWS6 (10)May 3, 1913National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
124Loss54–18–22 (29)Gilbert GallantPTS12Apr 29, 1913Arena (Armory A.A.), Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
123Draw54–17–22 (29)Bay WoodPTS12Apr 19, 1913Elm Rink, New Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S.
122Win54–17–21 (29)Mike MaloneNWS10Mar 27, 1913Pueblo, Colorado, U.S.
121Loss54–17–21 (28)Frank Ray WhitneyNWS10Mar 5, 1913Armory Auditorium, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.No decision rendered by prior agreement
Whitney won Newspaper Decision
120Draw54–17–21 (27)Bay WoodPTS12Feb 22, 1913Bristol Arena, New Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S.
119Win54–17–20 (27)Joe BurkeNWS10Feb 17, 1913Orpheum Theatre, Easton, Pennsylvania, U.S.
118Win54–17–20 (26)Harry DillonTKO10 (10)Feb 11, 1913Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, U.S.
117Win53–17–20 (26)Jack SorensonNWS10Feb 5, 1913Lakeside Auditorium, Racine, Wisconsin, U.S.
116Loss53–17–20 (25)Frankie RussellPTS10Jan 3, 1913Greenwall Theater, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.Nelson claimed he fought under the belief
that without a knockout the bout would
be declared a draw or no decision
115Loss53–16–20 (25)Yankee SchwartzNWS8Dec 31, 1912Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
114Draw53–16–20 (24)Jim BonnerPTS10Dec 20, 1912Walker's Hall, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, U.S.
113Draw53–16–19 (24)Teddy MaloneyNWS6Dec 13, 1912Olympia A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
112Loss53–16–19 (23)Leach CrossNWS10Nov 28, 191244th Street A.C., New Amsterdam Opera House, New York City, New York, U.S.
111Win53–16–19 (22)Art StewartNWS10Nov 14, 1912Hammond, Indiana, U.S.
110Draw53–16–19 (21)Steve KetchelPTS15Sep 2, 1912Saint Joseph, Missouri, U.S.
109Loss53–16–18 (21)Mickey MacIntyreNWS12Jul 12, 1912Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
108Win53–16–18 (20)Andy BezenahNWS12Jul 1, 1912 Auditorium Rink, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
107Draw53–16–18 (19)Sammy TrottPTS15Mar 1, 1912Dayton, Ohio, U.S.
106Draw53–16–17 (19)Young TogoPTS6Feb 26, 1912Athletic Club, Fort Smith, Arkansas, U.S.
105Loss53–16–16 (19)Tommy O'RourkeNWS10Jan 9, 1912Springfield, Missouri, U.S.
104Win53–16–16 (18)Jack RedmondPTS20Dec 31, 1911West Side A.C., Gretna, Louisiana, U.S.
103Loss52–16–16 (18)One Round HoganNWS10Dec 22, 1911Madison A.C., New York City, New York, U.S.
102Win52–16–16 (17)Willie HowardNWS10Dec 18, 1911Irving A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, New York, U.S.
101Win52–16–16 (16)Bobby WilsonNWS10Dec 15, 1911Oneida County A.C., Utica, New York, U.S.
100Draw52–16–16 (15)Andy BezenahNWS10Dec 4, 1911Jeffersonville, Indiana, U.S.
99Win52–16–16 (14)Joseph SperoKO6 (20)Nov 30, 1911 Agnes Street Theatre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
98Draw51–16–16 (14)Louis De PonthieuNWS10Nov 25, 1911Convention Hall, Buffalo, New York, U.S.
97Win51–16–16 (13)Tommy MooreTKO9 (10)Nov 10, 1911Convention Hall, Buffalo, New York, U.S.
96Draw50–16–16 (13)Frank LoughreyNWS10Nov 6, 1911Grogan A.C., Watervliet, New York, U.S.
95Win50–16–16 (12)Monte DalePTS15Oct 25, 1911Mechanics Hall, Manchester, New Hampshire, U.S.
94Loss49–16–16 (12)George AlgerNWS6Oct 19, 1911Augusta, Maine, U.S.
93Loss49–16–16 (12)Philadelphia Pal MoorePTS12Oct 17, 1911Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
92Win49–15–16 (12)Willie BeecherNWS10Oct 11, 1911Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
91Loss49–15–16 (11)Milburn SaylorPTS12Oct 3, 1911Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
90Win49–14–16 (11)Billy NixonTKO10 (12)Sep 19, 1911Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
89Win48–14–16 (11)Tommy GaffneyTKO5 (10)Aug 4, 1911Opera House, Medford, Oregon, U.S.
88Draw47–14–16 (11)Percy CovePTS6Jul 4, 1911Fairgrounds, Bellingham, Washington, U.S.
87Loss47–14–15 (11)Owen MoranKO11 (20)Nov 26, 1910Blot's Arena, San Francisco, California, U.S.
86Draw47–13–15 (11)Anton LaGravePTS15Oct 31, 1910Dreamland Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
85Win47–13–14 (11)Monte DaleTKO3 (10)Oct 10, 1910Hippodrome, Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
84Loss46–13–14 (11)Ad WolgastTKO40 (45)Feb 22, 1910Arena, Point Richmond, California, U.S.Lost world lightweight title
83Win46–12–14 (11)Eddie LangTKO8 (8)Jan 21, 1910Memphis A.C., Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.Retained world lightweight title
82Loss45–12–14 (11)Ad WolgastNWS10Jul 13, 1909Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
81Win45–12–14 (10)Jack CliffordTKO5 (15)Jun 22, 1909Auditorium, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.
80Win44–12–14 (10)Dick HylandKO23 (45)May 29, 1909Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S.Retained world lightweight title
79Win43–12–14 (10)Joe GansKO21 (45)Sep 9, 1908Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S.Retained world lightweight title
78Win42–12–14 (10)Joe GansKO17 (45)Jul 4, 1908Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S.Won world lightweight title
77Draw41–12–14 (10)Abe AttellPTS15Mar 31, 1908Coliseum, San Francisco, California, U.S.
76Draw41–12–13 (10)Jimmy BrittNWS10Mar 3, 1908Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
75Loss41–12–13 (9)Rudy UnholzNWS10Feb 4, 1908Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
74Win41–12–13 (8)Jack CliffordKO5 (20)Jan 13, 1908Opera House, Ogden, Utah, U.S.
73Loss40–12–13 (8)Jimmy BrittPTS20Jul 31, 1907Auditorium Rink, San Francisco, California, U.S.Lost world 'white' lightweight title
72Loss40–11–13 (8)Joe GansDQ42 (?)Sep 3, 1906Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, U.S.For world lightweight title
71Win40–10–13 (8)Terry McGovernNWS6Mar 14, 1906National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
70Win40–10–13 (7)Jimmy BrittKO18 (20)Sep 9, 1905Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S.Won world 'white' lightweight title
69Win39–10–13 (7)Jack O'NeilNWS6Jun 6, 1905National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
68Draw39–10–13 (6)Kid SullivanPTS6Jun 2, 1905Eureka A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
67Loss39–10–12 (6)Abe AttellNWS6May 22, 1905National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
66Win39–10–12 (5)Young Corbett IITKO9 (20)Feb 28, 1905Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
65Loss38–10–12 (5)Jimmy BrittPTS20Dec 20, 1904Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.For vacant world 'white' lightweight title
64Win38–9–12 (5)Young Corbett IITKO10 (20)Nov 29, 1904Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
63Win37–9–12 (5)Aurelio HerreraPTS20Sep 5, 1904Montana A.C., Butte, Montana, U.S.
62Win36–9–12 (5)Eddie HanlonTKO19 (20)Jul 29, 1904Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
61Win35–9–12 (5)Martin CanoleKO18 (20)May 20, 1904Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
60Win34–9–12 (5)Joe Spider WelshTKO16 (20)Apr 5, 1904Salt Palace, Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.
59Win33–9–12 (5)Jack O'NeilPTS6Feb 5, 1904Badger A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
58Win32–9–12 (5)Art SimmsKO3 (6)Jan 16, 1904Milwaukee A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
57Win31–9–12 (5)Clarence EnglishPTS15Dec 28, 1903Saint Joseph, Missouri, U.S.
56Win30–9–12 (5)George MemsicPTS6Nov 10, 1903Badger A.C., Milwaukee, U.S.
55Loss29–9–12 (5)Charles NearyPTS6Oct 16, 1903Badger A.C., Milwaukee, U.S.
54NC29–8–12 (5)Daredevil TildonNC2 (?)Sep 3, 1903Chicago, Illinois, U.S.Police stopped the fight
53Loss29–8–12 (4)Eddie SternsKO9 (?)Aug 26, 1903Michigan City, Indiana, U.S.
52Draw29–7–12 (4)Mickey RileyPTS15Jul 24, 1903Hurley, Wisconsin, U.S.
51NC29–7–11 (4)Mickey RileyNC11 (?)Jul 15, 1903Ashland, Wisconsin, U.S.Police stopped the fight
50Draw29–7–11 (3)Clarence EnglishPTS15Jun 27, 1903Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
49Win29–7–10 (3)Larry McDonaldKO4 (?)Jun 20, 1903Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
48Draw28–7–10 (3)Mickey RileyPTS6Jun 19, 1903Panorama Building, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
47Win28–7–9 (3)Young ScottyPTS8Jun 16, 1903Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.
46Win27–7–9 (3)Stockings KellyKO4 (?)May 22, 1903Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
45Win26–7–9 (3)Cyclone Johnny ThompsonPTS6Apr 24, 1903Milwaukee A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
44Draw25–7–9 (3)Adam RyanPTS15Mar 4, 1903Capital Theater, Little Rock, Arkansas, U.S.
43Win25–7–8 (3)Sammy MaxwellKO10 (?)Jan 6, 1903Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
42Win24–7–8 (3)Christy WilliamsKO17 (?)Dec 26, 1902Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
41Win23–7–8 (3)Billy MayfieldPTS10Dec 2, 1902Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
40Draw22–7–8 (3)Battling HurleyPTS6Jun 14, 1902Hammond, Indiana, U.S.
39Win22–7–7 (3)Pudden BurnsPTS6May 17, 1902Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
38Draw21–7–7 (3)Danny McMahonPTS6Apr 12, 1902West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
37Win21–7–6 (3)William RosslerKO1 (?)Apr 5, 1902Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
36Win20–7–6 (3)Cyclone Johnny ThompsonPTS6Mar 21, 1902Wabash A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
35Win19–7–6 (3)Kid RyanKO5 (?)Mar 17, 1902American A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
34Win18–7–6 (3)Joe PercentePTS8Mar 13, 1902Oshkosh, Wisconsin, U.S.
33Loss17–7–6 (3)Charles BerryPTS8Jan 21, 1902Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.
32Win17–6–6 (3)Frank ColiferKO5 (?)Jan 13, 1902West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
31Loss16–6–6 (3)Charles BerryPTS6Dec 17, 1901Badger A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
30Win16–5–6 (3)Mike WalshKO6 (6)Dec 16, 1901American A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
29Draw15–5–6 (3)Joe PercentePTS6Dec 2, 1901Milwaukee Boxing Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
28Loss15–5–5 (3)Eddie SantryPTS6Nov 29, 1901Pyramid A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
27Loss15–4–5 (3)Joe PercentePTS6Nov 15, 1901Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
26NC15–3–5 (3)Billy HeckND4Nov 10, 1901West Pullman, Wisconsin, U.S.
25Draw15–3–5 (2)Harry FailsPTS10May 24, 1901Rhinelander, Wisconsin, U.S.
24NC15–3–4 (2)Harry FailsND6May 18, 1901Omro, Wisconsin, U.S.
23Draw15–3–4 (1)Charles BerryPTS6May 3, 1901Milwaukee Boxing Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
22Loss15–3–3 (1)Mickey RileyPTS6Apr 19, 1901Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
21Win15–2–3 (1)Black GriffoKO3 (?)Mar 17, 1901Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
20Win14–2–3 (1)Jack MartinPTS4Dec 8, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
19Win13–2–3 (1)Joe PercenteDQ2 (?)Dec 7, 1900Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
18Draw12–2–3 (1)Danny McMahonPTS4Dec 1, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
17Loss12–2–2 (1)Pete BoyleDQ4 (?)Dec 1, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
16Win12–1–2 (1)Ed BurleyKO5 (?)Nov 22, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
15Win11–1–2 (1)Black GriffoKO3 (?)Nov 15, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
14Draw10–1–2 (1)Clarence ClassPTS6Nov 2, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
13Win10–1–1 (1)Young BayPTS6Oct 8, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
12Win9–1–1 (1)Young GriffinPTS6Sep 21, 1900Orpheus A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
11Loss8–1–1 (1)Joe HedmarkPTS6Sep 14, 1900Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
10Win8–0–1 (1)Charles DoughertyKO1 (?)Aug 30, 1900Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
9NC7–0–1 (1)Feathers VernonND6Jul 4, 1900West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
8Win7–0–1John SmithKO2 (?)Jun 1, 1899Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
7Win6–0–1Bull WintersKO1 (?)May 3, 1899Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
6Win5–0–1Eddie PennyKO1 (?)Apr 6, 1899Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
5Draw4–0–1Eddie HermanPTS6Jan 1, 1899Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
4Win4–0Soldier WilliamsKO3 (?)May 11, 1898Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S.
3Win3–0Freddie GreenKO7 (?)May 10, 1898Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S.
2Win2–0Ole OlsenPTS3Jun 5, 1897Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
1Win1–0Wallace KidKO1 (?)Sep 3, 1896Hammond, Indiana, U.S.

Unofficial record

172 fights97 wins46 losses
By knockout403
By decision5639
By disqualification14
Draws28
No contests1

Record with the inclusion of newspaper decisions in the win/loss/draw column.

No.ResultRecordOpponentTypeRoundDateLocationNotes
134Loss69–33–27 (5)Freddie WelshNWS12Apr 17, 1917Coliseum, Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S.World lightweight title at stake;
(via KO only)
133Win69–32–27 (5)Pierce MatthewsTKO8 (12)Mar 17, 1917Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S.
132Loss68–32–27 (5)Jimmy ReaganPTS10Nov 5, 1915 20th Century A.C., Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
131Loss68–31–27 (5)Bobby WaughPTS20Sep 6, 1915 Plaza de Toros, Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico
130Win68–30–27 (5)Dale GardnerKO2 (?)Apr 24, 1915Havana, Cuba
129Win67–30–27 (5)Jimmy FryerPTS25Mar 24, 1915Havana, Cuba
128Win66–30–27 (5)Stewart DonnellyKO3 (?)Mar 18, 1915Havana, Cuba
127Win65–30–27 (5)Cliff FordPTS6Aug 19, 1913Soo Opera House, Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, U.S.
126Loss64–30–27 (5)Ad WolgastNWS10Oct 13, 1913Southside A.A., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
125Loss64–29–27 (5)Pat BradleyNWS6 (10)May 3, 1913National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
124Loss64–28–27 (5)Gilbert GallantPTS12Apr 29, 1913Arena (Armory A.A.), Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
123Draw64–27–27 (5)Bay WoodPTS12Apr 19, 1913Elm Rink, New Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S.
122Win64–27–26 (5)Mike MaloneNWS10Mar 27, 1913Pueblo, Colorado, U.S.
121Loss63–27–26 (5)Frank Ray WhitneyNWS10Mar 5, 1913Armory Auditorium, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.No decision rendered by prior agreement
Whitney won Newspaper Decision
120Draw63–26–26 (5)Bay WoodPTS12Feb 22, 1913Bristol Arena, New Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S.
119Win63–26–25 (5)Joe BurkeNWS10Feb 17, 1913Orpheum Theatre, Easton, Pennsylvania, U.S.
118Win62–26–25 (5)Harry DillonTKO10 (10)Feb 11, 1913Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, U.S.
117Win61–26–25 (5)Jack SorensonNWS10Feb 5, 1913Lakeside Auditorium, Racine, Wisconsin, U.S.
116Loss60–26–25 (5)Frankie RussellPTS10Jan 3, 1913Greenwall Theater, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.Nelson claimed he fought under the belief
that without a knockout the bout would
be declared a draw or no decision
115Loss60–25–25 (5)Yankee SchwartzNWS8Dec 31, 1912Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
114Draw60–24–25 (5)Jim BonnerPTS10Dec 20, 1912Walker's Hall, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, U.S.
113Draw60–24–24 (5)Teddy MaloneyNWS6Dec 13, 1912Olympia A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
112Loss60–24–23 (5)Leach CrossNWS10Nov 28, 191244th Street A.C., New Amsterdam Opera House, New York City, New York, U.S.
111Win60–23–23 (5)Art StewartNWS10Nov 14, 1912Hammond, Indiana, U.S.
110Draw59–23–23 (5)Steve KetchelPTS15Sep 2, 1912Saint Joseph, Missouri, U.S.
109Loss59–23–22 (5)Mickey MacIntyreNWS12Jul 12, 1912Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
108Win59–22–22 (5)Andy BezenahNWS12Jul 1, 1912 Auditorium Rink, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
107Draw58–22–22 (5)Sammy TrottPTS15Mar 1, 1912Dayton, Ohio, U.S.
106Draw58–22–21 (5)Young TogoPTS6Feb 26, 1912Athletic Club, Fort Smith, Arkansas, U.S.
105Loss58–22–20 (5)Tommy O'RourkeNWS10Jan 9, 1912Springfield, Missouri, U.S.
104Win58–21–20 (5)Jack RedmondPTS20Dec 31, 1911West Side A.C., Gretna, Louisiana, U.S.
103Loss57–21–20 (5)One Round HoganNWS10Dec 22, 1911Madison A.C., New York City, New York, U.S.
102Win57–20–20 (5)Willie HowardNWS10Dec 18, 1911Irving A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, New York, U.S.
101Win56–20–20 (5)Bobby WilsonNWS10Dec 15, 1911Oneida County A.C., Utica, New York, U.S.
100Draw55–20–20 (5)Andy BezenahNWS10Dec 4, 1911Jeffersonville, Indiana, U.S.
99Win55–20–19 (5)Joseph SperoKO6 (20)Nov 30, 1911 Agnes Street Theatre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
98Draw54–20–19 (5)Louis De PonthieuNWS10Nov 25, 1911Convention Hall, Buffalo, New York, U.S.
97Win54–20–18 (5)Tommy MooreTKO9 (10)Nov 10, 1911Convention Hall, Buffalo, New York, U.S.
96Draw53–20–18 (5)Frank LoughreyNWS10Nov 6, 1911Grogan A.C., Watervliet, New York, U.S.
95Win53–20–17 (5)Monte DalePTS15Oct 25, 1911Mechanics Hall, Manchester, New Hampshire, U.S.
94Loss52–20–17 (5)George AlgerNWS6Oct 19, 1911Augusta, Maine, U.S.
93Loss52–19–17 (5)Philadelphia Pal MoorePTS12Oct 17, 1911Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
92Win52–18–17 (5)Willie BeecherNWS10Oct 11, 1911Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
91Loss51–18–17 (5)Milburn SaylorPTS12Oct 3, 1911Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
90Win51–17–17 (5)Billy NixonTKO10 (12)Sep 19, 1911Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
89Win50–17–17 (5)Tommy GaffneyTKO5 (10)Aug 4, 1911Opera House, Medford, Oregon, U.S.
88Draw49–17–17 (5)Percy CovePTS6Jul 4, 1911Fairgrounds, Bellingham, Washington, U.S.
87Loss49–17–16 (5)Owen MoranKO11 (20)Nov 26, 1910Blot's Arena, San Francisco, California, U.S.
86Draw49–16–16 (5)Anton LaGravePTS15Oct 31, 1910Dreamland Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
85Win49–16–15 (5)Monte DaleTKO3 (10)Oct 10, 1910Hippodrome, Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
84Loss48–16–15 (5)Ad WolgastTKO40 (45)Feb 22, 1910Arena, Point Richmond, California, U.S.Lost world lightweight title
83Win48–15–15 (5)Eddie LangTKO8 (8)Jan 21, 1910Memphis A.C., Memphis, Tennessee, U.S.Retained world lightweight title
82Loss47–15–15 (5)Ad WolgastNWS10Jul 13, 1909Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
81Win47–14–15 (5)Jack CliffordTKO5 (15)Jun 22, 1909Auditorium, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.
80Win46–14–15 (5)Dick HylandKO23 (45)May 29, 1909Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S.Retained world lightweight title
79Win45–14–15 (5)Joe GansKO21 (45)Sep 9, 1908Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S.Retained world lightweight title
78Win44–14–15 (5)Joe GansKO17 (45)Jul 4, 1908Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S.Won world lightweight title
77Draw43–14–15 (5)Abe AttellPTS15Mar 31, 1908Coliseum, San Francisco, California, U.S.
76Draw43–14–14 (5)Jimmy BrittNWS10Mar 3, 1908Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
75Loss43–14–13 (5)Rudy UnholzNWS10Feb 4, 1908Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
74Win43–13–13 (5)Jack CliffordKO5 (20)Jan 13, 1908Opera House, Ogden, Utah, U.S.
73Loss42–13–13 (5)Jimmy BrittPTS20Jul 31, 1907Auditorium Rink, San Francisco, California, U.S.Lost world 'white' lightweight title
72Loss42–12–13 (5)Joe GansDQ42 (?)Sep 3, 1906Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, U.S.For world lightweight title
71Win42–11–13 (5)Terry McGovernNWS6Mar 14, 1906National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
70Win41–11–13 (5)Jimmy BrittKO18 (20)Sep 9, 1905Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S.Won world 'white' lightweight title
69Win40–11–13 (5)Jack O'NeilNWS6Jun 6, 1905National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
68Draw39–11–13 (5)Kid SullivanPTS6Jun 2, 1905Eureka A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
67Loss39–11–12 (5)Abe AttellNWS6May 22, 1905National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
66Win39–10–12 (5)Young Corbett IITKO9 (20)Feb 28, 1905Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
65Loss38–10–12 (5)Jimmy BrittPTS20Dec 20, 1904Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.For vacant world 'white' lightweight title
64Win38–9–12 (5)Young Corbett IITKO10 (20)Nov 29, 1904Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
63Win37–9–12 (5)Aurelio HerreraPTS20Sep 5, 1904Montana A.C., Butte, Montana, U.S.
62Win36–9–12 (5)Eddie HanlonTKO19 (20)Jul 29, 1904Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
61Win35–9–12 (5)Martin CanoleKO18 (20)May 20, 1904Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
60Win34–9–12 (5)Joe Spider WelshTKO16 (20)Apr 5, 1904Salt Palace, Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.
59Win33–9–12 (5)Jack O'NeilPTS6Feb 5, 1904Badger A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
58Win32–9–12 (5)Art SimmsKO3 (6)Jan 16, 1904Milwaukee A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
57Win31–9–12 (5)Clarence EnglishPTS15Dec 28, 1903Saint Joseph, Missouri, U.S.
56Win30–9–12 (5)George MemsicPTS6Nov 10, 1903Badger A.C., Milwaukee, U.S.
55Loss29–9–12 (5)Charles NearyPTS6Oct 16, 1903Badger A.C., Milwaukee, U.S.
54NC29–8–12 (5)Daredevil TildonNC2 (?)Sep 3, 1903Chicago, Illinois, U.S.Police stopped the fight
53Loss29–8–12 (4)Eddie SternsKO9 (?)Aug 26, 1903Michigan City, Indiana, U.S.
52Draw29–7–12 (4)Mickey RileyPTS15Jul 24, 1903Hurley, Wisconsin, U.S.
51NC29–7–11 (4)Mickey RileyNC11 (?)Jul 15, 1903Ashland, Wisconsin, U.S.Police stopped the fight
50Draw29–7–11 (3)Clarence EnglishPTS15Jun 27, 1903Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
49Win29–7–10 (3)Larry McDonaldKO4 (?)Jun 20, 1903Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
48Draw28–7–10 (3)Mickey RileyPTS6Jun 19, 1903Panorama Building, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
47Win28–7–9 (3)Young ScottyPTS8Jun 16, 1903Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.
46Win27–7–9 (3)Stockings KellyKO4 (?)May 22, 1903Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
45Win26–7–9 (3)Cyclone Johnny ThompsonPTS6Apr 24, 1903Milwaukee A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
44Draw25–7–9 (3)Adam RyanPTS15Mar 4, 1903Capital Theater, Little Rock, Arkansas, U.S.
43Win25–7–8 (3)Sammy MaxwellKO10 (?)Jan 6, 1903Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
42Win24–7–8 (3)Christy WilliamsKO17 (?)Dec 26, 1902Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
41Win23–7–8 (3)Billy MayfieldPTS10Dec 2, 1902Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
40Draw22–7–8 (3)Battling HurleyPTS6Jun 14, 1902Hammond, Indiana, U.S.
39Win22–7–7 (3)Pudden BurnsPTS6May 17, 1902Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
38Draw21–7–7 (3)Danny McMahonPTS6Apr 12, 1902West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
37Win21–7–6 (3)William RosslerKO1 (?)Apr 5, 1902Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
36Win20–7–6 (3)Cyclone Johnny ThompsonPTS6Mar 21, 1902Wabash A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
35Win19–7–6 (3)Kid RyanKO5 (?)Mar 17, 1902American A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
34Win18–7–6 (3)Joe PercentePTS8Mar 13, 1902Oshkosh, Wisconsin, U.S.
33Loss17–7–6 (3)Charles BerryPTS8Jan 21, 1902Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.
32Win17–6–6 (3)Frank ColiferKO5 (?)Jan 13, 1902West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
31Loss16–6–6 (3)Charles BerryPTS6Dec 17, 1901Badger A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
30Win16–5–6 (3)Mike WalshKO6 (6)Dec 16, 1901American A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
29Draw15–5–6 (3)Joe PercentePTS6Dec 2, 1901Milwaukee Boxing Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
28Loss15–5–5 (3)Eddie SantryPTS6Nov 29, 1901Pyramid A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
27Loss15–4–5 (3)Joe PercentePTS6Nov 15, 1901Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
26NC15–3–5 (3)Billy HeckND4Nov 10, 1901West Pullman, Wisconsin, U.S.
25Draw15–3–5 (2)Harry FailsPTS10May 24, 1901Rhinelander, Wisconsin, U.S.
24NC15–3–4 (2)Harry FailsND6May 18, 1901Omro, Wisconsin, U.S.
23Draw15–3–4 (1)Charles BerryPTS6May 3, 1901Milwaukee Boxing Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
22Loss15–3–3 (1)Mickey RileyPTS6Apr 19, 1901Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
21Win15–2–3 (1)Black GriffoKO3 (?)Mar 17, 1901Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
20Win14–2–3 (1)Jack MartinPTS4Dec 8, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
19Win13–2–3 (1)Joe PercenteDQ2 (?)Dec 7, 1900Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
18Draw12–2–3 (1)Danny McMahonPTS4Dec 1, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
17Loss12–2–2 (1)Pete BoyleDQ4 (?)Dec 1, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
16Win12–1–2 (1)Ed BurleyKO5 (?)Nov 22, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
15Win11–1–2 (1)Black GriffoKO3 (?)Nov 15, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
14Draw10–1–2 (1)Clarence ClassPTS6Nov 2, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
13Win10–1–1 (1)Young BayPTS6Oct 8, 1900Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
12Win9–1–1 (1)Young GriffinPTS6Sep 21, 1900Orpheus A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
11Loss8–1–1 (1)Joe HedmarkPTS6Sep 14, 1900Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
10Win8–0–1 (1)Charles DoughertyKO1 (?)Aug 30, 1900Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
9NC7–0–1 (1)Feathers VernonND6Jul 4, 1900West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
8Win7–0–1John SmithKO2 (?)Jun 1, 1899Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
7Win6–0–1Bull WintersKO1 (?)May 3, 1899Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
6Win5–0–1Eddie PennyKO1 (?)Apr 6, 1899Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
5Draw4–0–1Eddie HermanPTS6Jan 1, 1899Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
4Win4–0Soldier WilliamsKO3 (?)May 11, 1898Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S.
3Win3–0Freddie GreenKO7 (?)May 10, 1898Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S.
2Win2–0Ole OlsenPTS3Jun 5, 1897Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
1Win1–0Wallace KidKO1 (?)Sep 3, 1896Hammond, Indiana, U.S.

See also

References

External links

Achievements
Preceded by World Lightweight Champion
July 4, 1908 – February 22, 1910
Succeeded by
Titles in pretence
Preceded by World White Lightweight Champion
September 9, 1905 – July 31, 1907
Succeeded by