History

Origins

The origins of boxing can be traced back to ancient civilizations, with evidence of early forms of boxing found in various cultures throughout history. While the exact origins are somewhat uncertain, boxing as a sport is believed to have emerged in ancient Greece around the 7th century BCE around the first Olympics Games.

18th Century

In the 18th century boxing was revived in London in the form of bare-knuckle prizefights where the combatants fought for money and the spectators made bets on the outcome.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, boxing continued to evolve, with the introduction of weight classes, the establishment of governing bodies such as the Marquess of Queensberry Rules, and the rise of legendary fighters like Jack Dempsey, Joe Louis, Muhammad Ali, and many others. Today, boxing remains a prominent sport worldwide, with a rich history spanning thousands of years and continuing to captivate audiences with its combination of athleticism, strategy, and raw excitement.

The Queensberry Rules

The Queensberry Rules are as followed

• The boxing ring needs to be in a 24 ft ring or as near as possible.
• No wresling or hugging.
• Professional rounds need to be 3 minutes long with 1 minute rest beteen rounds.
• If either combatant falls due to exchaustion or by a getting hit they must get up unaided in 10 seconds or he loses by knockout.
• A combatant hanging on the ropes in a helpless state, with his toes off the ground, shall be considered down or the referee will wave it off if unable to defend themselves.
• No one but the combatants and the ref is allowed in the ring during the fight.
• Should the contest be stopped by any unavoidable interference, the referee to name the time and place as soon as possible for finishing the contest; so that the match must be won and lost.
• The gloves to be fair-sized boxing gloves of the best quality and new.
• Should a glove burst, or come off, it must be replaced to the referee satisfaction.
• A man on one knee is considered down and if struck is entitled to the stakes.
• No shoes or boots with springs allowed.

More information about the history of boxing and the Queensberry Rules can be found here -> Boxing History