Robert Fitzsimmons PDF Download

Extensively researched from contemporary sources on three continents ‘Lanky Bob’ is the first comprehensive biography of world’s heavyweight boxing champion Bob Fitzsimmons for thirty years. A truly international sportsman, Fitz lived in England, New Zealand and Australia before settling in the USA at the age of twenty-seven. World champion at three weights, Bob attracted a legion of supporters including Theodore Roosevelt, Jack London and Lord Lonsdale and, in the shady and hard-bitten world of boxing, his share of enemies, particularly his former managers, lawyers and disgruntled opponents. Usually portrayed as a none-too-bright slugger, Fitz was a leading fistic innovator in the transitional period between bareknuckle and glove fighting. A period when boxing was illegal in most American States and when in some to square up to an opponent was to risk being shot by the local sheriff or US marshal. After experiencing bareknuckle fighting as a young teenager Bob became a whole-hearted adherent of the Queensberry code. Boxing giants such as Jem Mace, Larry Foley and Peter Jackson influenced his progress to championship level. An amiable practical joker Fitz enjoyed close relationships with his trainers and sparring partners, but in the ring was vicious and hard-punching fighter - particularly when hurt. The more unsavoury and distressing aspects of Fitz’s career are not avoided – the sudden death of his wife, marital upsets, the death of a sparring partner and his life in retirement plagued by financial problems, drink and violent behaviour. ‘Lanky Bob’ is the true story of a great champion.