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November 2007 Catalog  >  Sports  >  Boxing

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Lot 446: John L. Sullivan Flag Silk (1888-Mitchell Fight)

ITEM DESCRIPTION

 
Reserve: $2,000.00
Winning Bid: $3,897.43
Price Realized: $4,657.43
Auction Date:11/30/2007 9:00 PM EST

On 10 March 1888 World Heavyweight Champion John L.Sullivan faced old nemesis Charley Mitchell in a bare-knuckle fight, which took place on the estate grounds of Baron Alphonse Rothschild near Chantilly, just north of Paris, probably without the knowledge of the Rothschild family. In a bruising encounter, wherein at one stage Sullivan was heard roar: “Fight like a gentleman, you son of a bitch, if you can,” Mitchell forced Sullivan to a draw after thirty-nine frustrating rounds. Sullivan chased by the French police left for the United States immediately after the fight. Presented here is a American Flag- Silk of John L. Sullivan for this fight with Charley Mitchell. It measures 36” x 36” and has bold red, white and blue color. There is an American Eagle and under it in scroll is written, May He Always Be Champion.” In the lower right corner are the initials, JLS (for John L. Sullivan). Some fraying with a 3 inch tear at the stars. Overall excellent condition. A rare and beautiful commemorative from one of Sullivan’s most celebrated fights.

BIDDING

The bidding for this lot has ended.


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