James Figg, first pugilistic champion of England
More information
Title
James Figg, first pugilistic champion of England
James Figg, first pugilistic champion of England
Reference
SC_PT_02_F_31 (Collage 289103)
Date
Collection
London Metropolitan Archives: LCC Portraits
Description
James Figg (1684-1734) is widely regarded as first English bare-knuckle boxing champion, reigning from 1719 to 1730. He was also an expert at wrestling, and fighting with swords and cudgels. He was a popular performer in fairs, such as the Southwark Fair. He popularised sparring as a public entertainment and taught his skills to wealthy aristocrats at the academy that he established. Figg's Amphitheatre or Great House was followed by others in the same area. He was buried at St Marylebone parish church on 11 December 1734.
James Figg (1684-1734) is widely regarded as first English bare-knuckle boxing champion, reigning from 1719 to 1730. He was also an expert at wrestling, and fighting with swords and cudgels. He was a popular performer in fairs, such as the Southwark Fair. He popularised sparring as a public entertainment and taught his skills to wealthy aristocrats at the academy that he established. Figg's Amphitheatre or Great House was followed by others in the same area. He was buried at St Marylebone parish church on 11 December 1734.
<a href="view-item?i=289273" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">View this item on the London Picture Archive for further options including print and digital sales.</a>
View this item on the London Picture Archive for further options including print and digital sales.
License
Copyright London Metropolitan Archives, all rights reserved. Provided for research purposes only. For commercial and other uses please contact us via
support@londonpicturearchive.org.uk
Attribution
London Metropolitan Archives. Please cite document title, reference and collection.