{"id":1133,"date":"2023-07-07T00:00:07","date_gmt":"2023-07-07T04:00:07","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/theusaboxingnews.com\/?page_id=1133"},"modified":"2023-07-07T17:51:08","modified_gmt":"2023-07-07T21:51:08","slug":"bare-knuckle-boxing-hall-of-fame","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/theusaboxingnews.com\/?page_id=1133","title":{"rendered":"The Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"tumblr_lw4a8zA4FK1qa9jp3o1_500\"<\/a>BARE KNUCKLE<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

BOXING HALL of FAME<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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CLICK PHOTOS TO VIEW THE BOXING TWIN’S TOUR OF THE HISTORIC BARE KNUCKLE BOXING HALL OF FAME<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

___________<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bareknuckle Hall of Fame<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

14th<\/sup> Annual Inductions<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The museum is a trip back to yesteryear!<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Story by John and Alex Rinaldi<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Photos by Alexander Rinaldi<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cNo other discipline has its portals so wide open to the general public as history.\u201d<\/em> \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0<\/em>–Johan Huizinga, Dutch historian (1872-1945)<\/em><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0\"\"<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

At the farm of wealthy landowner Charles Rich, two gladiators were summoned to \u201cscratch\u201d by referee John Fitzpatrick. It was 10:13 AM in Richburg, Mississippi, as the immortal heavyweight king John L. Sullivan, 215, squared off against the National Police Gazette World Heavyweight Champion Jake Kilrain, 195.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Elvin Leon Brito (L) with Scott Burt (R).<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

After 75 grueling rounds of boxing in the sweltering heat with temperatures of over 100 degrees under the London Prize Rules, Kilrain was finally beaten to a pulp and unable to continue.\u00a0 The Armageddon battle lasted 2 hours, 16 minutes and 25 seconds.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Artist extraordinaire Chris Guzman standing next to his mot recent BKBHOF painting.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

With the win, Sullivan finished off his toughest challenger and dispelled any foolish thought of someone, other than himself, being the Heavyweight Champion of the World!<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Alexander Rinaldi showing some of the displays at the banquet.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Although Sullivan reached the pinnacle of his legendary status in Mississippi, the road to that supreme victory began six months later in a little hamlet called Belfast, located in the far reaches of New York State.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Original Jake Kilrain banner.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The Sullivan-Kilrain match was signed in early 1889, but at the time, Sullivan was grossly overweight. Luckily for him, the former undefeated Greco-Roman wrestling champion and fitness philosopher William A. Muldoon contacted John L. and made a deal with the champ to bring him up to his Belfast, NY farm and whip him into fighting shape. He informed Sullivan that if he lost, he would not charge him for his efforts.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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It was reported that Sullivan was in such poor condition, that in the first few weeks of training, his stomach, which was clearly damaged by all the hard liquor he was consuming, could only hold down warm milk, water, and oatmeal. It would take a few weeks until John L. was able to consume meat, vegetables, and other form of solid sustenance.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Sullivan-Kilrain – Jake Kilrain bets a thousand dollars that he beats Sullivan.\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Sullivan\u2019s daily regiment was working out with the weighted wood pins before breakfast. After breakfast, the champion would do eight miles of run-walk roadwork (20 miles on Saturdays), followed by a gym session consisting of exercises, sparring, bag-work, jumping rope, and wrestling.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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At times Sullivan would spend time plowing fields and chopping wood to mold his muscles. At the conclusion of his daily training, Sullivan was submerged in a cold bath with rock salt. The concoction would toughen John\u2019s body and harden his face.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Sullivan would wind up shedding forty pounds as Muldoon transformed him into an incredible fighting machine that would defeat the dangerous and imposing Kilrain.\u00a0 Even the legendary female reporter of the time, Nellie Bly, ventured to Belfast to conduct an interview with John L.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Sullivan-Kilrain – Sullivan attacks Kilrain. (1)<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The historic barn where Sullivan did his preparation for the Kilrain battle was transformed by Scott R. Burt in 2009 into the current Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame Museum (www.bareknuckleboxinghalloffame.com).<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Famers John and Alex Rinaldi at the Induction Award Ceremony.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Inside the dwelling, visitors can view the original exercise equipment that Sullivan used 133 years ago! Traveling to the Bare Knuckle is akin to climbing aboard into H.G. Well\u2019s Time Machine and setting the course back to 1889.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Besides the John L. Sullivan items, inside the museum has a steamer trunk that Jake Killrain used when he ventured to Belfast later that same year in 1889 to train for his February 18, 1890, bout against future heavyweight king James J. Corbett at the Southern Athletic Center in New Orleans, LA. Although he dropped a 6-round decision, Jake put up a gallant effort. There are also plaques of inductees, memorabilia, and paintings by esteemed artist Chris Guzman, who contributes a new work of art each year with the new Class of Inductees.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Fighter Dhafir Harris with his induction trophy.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Scott Burt and others standing in front of the Seneca Nation Belt.<\/span><\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

In 2016, The USA Boxing News<\/em> was inducted in the Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame and on the second floor of the museum, there is a display honoring our publication with a reprint of the classic Sullivan-Kilrain Time Tunnel Story.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Outside visitors are treated to life-size statues of John L. Sullivan and William A. Muldoon. It is certainly worth the trip to journey to Belfast, NY to see such an historic pugilistic treasure.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Besides transforming the Muldoon Barn into the Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame, Scott Burt has also rejuvenated interest in modern bare knuckle fighting. Burt has traveled around the globe promoting Bare Knuckle Boxing events and awarding Bare Knuckle championship belts and medals with the backing of the museum and the Police Gazette Boxing Corporation.\u00a0 The Police Gazette made championship belts famous, and Burt has continued their legacy with the current male and female combatants of the new Bare Knuckle breed.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Each year The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame conducts an annual Induction Ceremony and this year\u2019s inductees to be enshrined were:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

2022 FIGHTERS<\/u><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Samuel \u201cDutch Sam\u201d Elias<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Samuel \u201cYoung Dutch Sam\u201d Elias<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Johnny Bedford<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Elvin Leon Brito<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Christine Ferea<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Sean George<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Lorenzo Hunt<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Eric Olsen<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Jimmy Sweeney<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

2022 SUPPORT AND SAFETY<\/u><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Clive Allison – Referee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Sammy Morris \u2013 Cutwoman<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Dr. Don Muzzi \u2013 Ring Doctor<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Barrington \u201cBaz\u201d Patterson \u2013 Referee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Vic Starita \u2013 Cutman<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

2022 PROMOTERS, CUTMEN, SHOWMEN, MATCHMAKERS<\/u><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Joe Brown \u2013 BKBtim Promoter \/ Matchmaker<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Jim Freeman \u2013 BKBtm Promoter \/ Matchmaker<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Dhafir Harris \u2013 Face of BYB Extreme<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Mel Valenzuela \u2013 BYB Extreme Matchmaker<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Mike Vazquez \u2013 BYB Extreme Promoter<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

2022 HONORARY INDUCTEES<\/u><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Hessie Donahue<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The only individual to knock out Sullivan in a Vaudeville act. In March 1891, in a skit Sullivan accidently hit Donahue a little too hard, so she blindsided the champ and knocked him to the floor!<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

POLICE GAZETT\u2019S FAVORITE GLOVED MIDDLEWEIGHT OF THE 20TH<\/sup> CENTURY<\/u><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Joey Archer<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Joey Archer -L- fires a left hook at the legendary Sugar Ray Robinson -R- in their 1965 fight.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Archer (45-4) holds wins over Dick Tiger, Holly Mims, Denny Moyer, Don Fullmer, Rubin \u201cHurricane\u201d Carter, Don Fullmer and Tony Dupas. Joey fought the immortal Sugar Ray Robinson on November 10, 1965 at the Civic Center in Pittsburgh, PA. Before 9,234 fans, Archer decked Robinson in the fourth round and captured a unanimous 10-round decision by scores of 48-41, 49-40 and 50-39. Joey would later challenge World Middleweight Champion Emile Griffith in two title fights at Madison Square Garden. In their first battle on July 13, 1967, Archer dropped a disputed 15-round majority decision by round scores of 7-7-1, 5-9-1 and 7-8. In their rematch, Griffith would once again narrowly edge out a win over Archer by round tallies of 6-8-1, 7-8, and 6-8-1. Joey retired after his second bout with Griffith.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Displays at the historic Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

A sold-out crowd was on hand for the 2022 Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony that was held on July 2 in Belfast.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Scott Burt also initiated an amateur boxing program affiliated with the Seneca Nation.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

The Boxing Tins outside the Bare-Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

For those who want to experience history and meet many special fighters, head out this summer to the 2023 Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame Inductions. For details go to:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

(www.bareknuckleboxinghalloffame.com)<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

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OVER 400 FIGHTERS REGISTERED FOR NATIONAL BARE KNUCKLE TRYOUTS TO BE HELD IN BELFAST DURING HALL OF FAME INDUCTION WEEKEND MAY 28-30<\/b><\/span><\/div>\n
\"\"<\/a>\u00a0<\/b>BELFAST, NEW YORK \u2013 The project started as rotting barns that few if any outside of the little town of Belfast knew about.\u00a0 Belfast is a quaint rural town in the Southern Tier that doesn\u2019t even have a traffic light and who has a public school that graduates around 20 annually.\u00a0 The significance of these barns is that 132 years ago they served as the training headquarters for the World\u2019s most feared bare knuckle fighter of his time, The Great John L. Sullivan.\u00a0 Local man and retired teacher Scott Burt set out 13 years ago to enlighten the World to this tucked away treasure.\u00a0 Now, on May 28-30, the World comes to him.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n

Scott has spent countless hours over the past 13 years painstakingly restoring these barns literally piece by piece, one hand-cut nail at a time, and in the process told the story of their grand historical value too many times to count to anyone who would listen.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"The<\/a>

The Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

In 2016 he was surprisingly put in charge of the granddaddy of all combat belts, that of the Historic Police Gazette founded by Richard K. Fox in 1881.\u00a0 This led to him be seen center ring on television after every bout presenting the historic diamond encrusted belt and medallions to fighters once the sport became legal just 3 years ago. ESPN, Rolling Stone Magazine, Disney Tokyo, the History Channel, Men\u2019s Journal and more have all come to Belfast to do articles and releases about the barns.\u00a0 He has been asked to examine and comment on the authenticity of Sullivan\u2019s items at the Smithsonian\u2026and one of Scott\u2019s currently issued Police Gazette medallions can even be found there now.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
Today he has earned the respect of the fighters and promoters all across the nation, and this Memorial Weekend Hall of Fame Induction activities clearly proves that.\u00a0 Over 15 of the most famous bare knuckle fighters in the USA will make the trek to what is now known as Knuckle Town USA to attend the festivities he has put together.\u00a0 <\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n
\"Scott<\/a>

Scott Burt<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Just as impressive, Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship promoter, the top in the nation, David Feldman Sr., his son Dave and matchmaker Nate Shook have taken noticeee too. <\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
They will hold on that Saturday the National BKFC Bare Knuckle Tryouts in Belfast.\u00a0 How many have registered for that so far?\u00a0 Can you say 400?\u00a0 Here\u2019s a schedule of all the events Scott has put together solely to make a celebration to \u201cproperly honor our fighters\u201d as he proudly states. \u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
All activities are free except the Awards Brunch and Ceremony which is $55 per adult, $20 for young children and are pre-sale only.\u00a0 Email Scott at\u00a0SRBURT@AOL.COM<\/a>\u00a0or call\/text him at 585-610-3326 if you\u2019d like to purchase.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
-Schedule of Events for 2021 Memorial Day Weekend-<\/i><\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n
BARE KNUCKLE BOXING HALL OF FAME INDUCTION CELEBRATION<\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n
BELFAST, NEW YORK – \u201cKNUCKLE TOWN, USA\u201d<\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n
Schedule is tentative and subject to weather conditions and covid restrictions<\/span><\/strong><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Friday, May 28<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/div>\n
5:30-7:30pm<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 Car Show at Hall of Fame at 5 West Hughes Street.\u00a0 Food available.<\/span><\/div>\n
5:30pm<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 Personal Tour of Hall of Fame (John L. Sullivan\u2019s Original 1889 Training Headquarters)\u00a0<\/a>given by President Scott Burt.\u00a0 All tours free\/donations appreciated.<\/span><\/div>\n
6:30pm<\/u><\/b>\u00a0\u00a0<\/b>The John L. Sullivan Bar-Pulling Contest is back by popular demand!<\/span><\/div>\n
7pm<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 William Muldoon Trainer Appreciation Awards.<\/span><\/div>\n
8pm<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 Live Band\/Street Dance.\u00a0 And something new and fun; spin for prizes!<\/span><\/div>\n
11pm-ish<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 Ghost Tour of Sullivan-Muldoon Barns by former \u201cnaysayer turned believer\u201d once he slept overnight in them, boxer Jimmy Holmes…oooh the stories!<\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Saturday, May 29<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/div>\n
10am<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 Tour of Apollo Creed\u2019s original restored \u201cPalatial Training Ring\u201d featured in Rocky 2. \u00a0Meet at KNUCKLE TOWN, USA banner next to post office on Main Street.<\/span><\/div>\n
10:30am<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 Tour of the 1903 Police Gazette Offices; see the leather-bound ledgers and massive walk-in vault where the legendary belts are stored.<\/span><\/div>\n
11am<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 Induction Meet & Greet, Fist Impressions of the fighter honorees.<\/span><\/div>\n
11:30am<\/u><\/b>\u00a0\u00a0Induction Brunch and Awards ($55 per person\/please Paypal\u00a0SRBURT@AOL.COM<\/a>\u00a0asap. \u00a0All tickets sold only presale), unveiling of Artist Chris Guzman\u2019s Official Induction Painting, speeches, surprises and more\u2026<\/span><\/div>\n
1:30pm<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 Personal Tour of Hall of Fame given by President and Historian Scott Burt.<\/span><\/div>\n
2:30pm-6:30pm or beyond<\/u><\/b>\u00a0 BKFC Nationwide Bare Knuckle Tryouts!<\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Sunday, May 30<\/i><\/b><\/span><\/div>\n
11am<\/u><\/b>\u00a0<\/b>\u00a0For those still in area, a relaxing day at the very unique Rock City.\u00a0 It\u2019s in Olean, 45 minutes away; we can carpool.\u00a0 Burgers n beer! \u00a0Park charges $5 per person admittance.\u00a0 John L. Sullivan visited here in 1889 while training in Belfast and stayed at the no-longer standing hotel on the cliffs! \u00a0Fun for kids too.<\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Call\/text your questions to President Scott Burt; 585-610-3326<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
With covid, the HOF hasn\u2019t been able to raise any income for over a year now,<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
and therefore unfortunately cannot give out any free passes to the brunch, media<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
included, except of course for current-year honorees.\u00a0 Thank you for understanding.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n

Fighters, Wild West Gunslingers, Promoters, and Referees are among\u00a0 the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame Induction Class of 2019<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\nStory and Photos by John and Alex Rinaldi<\/span><\/p>\n

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Directions to the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame (Photo by T. Delefave)<\/span><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

\"Tommy<\/a>

Tommy Warren – 2019 Bare Knuckle HOF Inductee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Throughout the centuries there have been many fighters, scribes, promoters and trainers who have given their heart and soul to the wonderful sport of boxing. Many have gone unnoticed and unrecognized over the years due to petty politics and bias on those on board of some boxing hall of fames. Thankfully, there are those institutions out there like the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame, the New Jersey Boxing Hall of Fame, the Atlantic City Hall of Fame, the Pennsylvania Hall of Fame, the Nevada Boxing Hall of Fame and the Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame where those who plied their trade in the sport of pugilism get their just recognition.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong>The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame has such a rich history in the sport in that it originated in a structure where the legendary king of the heavyweights John L. Sullivan had to undergo rigorous training to get in shape for the challenge of his life against the feared and mighty American Heavyweight Champion Jake Kilrain (https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=7tcn4Q5xV9k).<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"John<\/a>

John and Alex Rinaldi are awarded the President’s Belt for their great contribution to the sport of boxing.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Sullivan began training in the winter months under the guidance of William Muldoon, the former undefeated wrestling champion and esteemed fitness expert. Muldoon put Sullivan through the most rigorous and tortuous training of his life in the little hamlet of Belfast, New York. For six months at Muldoon’s barn, the World Heavyweight Champion chopped wood, plowed fields, jumped rope, sparred, wrestled, swam in a river with a raging current, ran\/walked nearly 20 miles a day, banged away and a hanging heavy bag, punched away at a speed bag, did endless calisthenics, had daily rubdowns and was repeatedly banged into the stomach by a heavily padded ball invented by Muldoon, called the medicine ball, which is still used in training today.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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Scott Burt with 2019 BKBHOF artist Chris Guzman as he unveils his 2019 Inductee painting.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The work paid off because Sullivan dropped nearly 50 pounds and entered the ring on July 8, 1889 at a makeshift ring on Colonel Charles Rich’s property in Richburg, Mississippi in splendid condition. Kilrain also showed up in terrific physical form and the two battled for 75 rounds under the Bare Knuckle London Prize Rules in temperatures exceeding 100 degrees. Although he was gutsy and willing and gave Sullivan all he could handle in the early going, Kilrain eventually succumbed under the tremendous blows of John L. and was unable to rise and the fight was called off after two hours and 16 minute.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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Sullivan-Kilrain fight with referee John Fitzpatrick sitting in center.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The training quarters of William Muldoon’s farm became legendary after the great battle and even Jake Kilrain trained there in late 1889 for his upcoming about against future heavyweight champion, and the man who would dethrone John L. Sullivan in 1892, James J. Corbett, where he dropped a six-round decision on February 18, 1890 in New Orleans, LA.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Jack Havlin – 2019 Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame Inductee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

As the years progressed, the farm was forgotten for over a century until a visionary by the name of Scott Burt was able to obtain the structure, move it a few blocks away and transform it back into the same condition it was in when such luminaries as John L. Sullivan and Jake Kilrain trained there. <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Besides restoring such an historic edifice, Burt came up with the idea of turning the building into the Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame, which honors not only bare knuckle fighters of the days gone by, but current fighters, promoters, referees and announcers that continue in the sport today, along with various boxers and writers who have made significant contributions to the sport. The U.S.A. Boxing News was one such group who were inducted in 2016.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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John and Alex Rinaldi in front of the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Burt was not just content to be the president of the Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame. He was determined to resurrect the sport back to prominence by working to get the sport of Bare Knuckle Fighting licensed and championship belts awarded by Burt with the Police Gazette Belt.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Ike Weir – 2019 Bare Knuckle HOF Inductee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

After some Indian Reservations hosted current Bare Knuckle contests, 28 states turned down sanctioning Bare Knuckle battles until Scott Burt and Promoter Dave Feldman of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (https:\/\/www.bareknuckle.tv\/) got together and promoted the first ever state-sanctioned Bare Knuckle match at the Cheyenne Ice and Events Center, in Cheyenne, Wyoming, before an enthusiastic crowd of 2,000 in attendance. The televised fights were announced by former WBA\/WBC\/IBO\/WBF light heavyweight king Antonio Tarver.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Ike Weir – 2019 Bare Knuckle HOF Inductee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The next state to hop on board was Mississippi, who will be hosting the next Bare Knuckle promotion at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum in Biloxi, MS on Saturday August 10.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

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Bat Masterson – 2019 Bare Knuckle HOF Inductee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

So thanks to Scott Burt and Dave Feldman, the sport of Bare Knuckle Boxing appears to be on its way back to prominence.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Bat Masterson – 2019 Bare Knuckle HOF Inductee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

A huge crowd turned out in Belfast, New York on July 13, which was the 130th Anniversary of the Sullivan-Kilrain battle, to induct another deserving class of individuals into the Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Bat Masterson – 2019 Bare Knuckle HOF Inductee<\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

2019’s Pioneer Bare Knuckle inductees were the following:<\/span><\/strong>
\nJack Havlin (1859-1906), of Boston, MA. Havlin fought from 1884 to 1894 and KO’d Jack Farrell in 7 rounds to capture the first Police Gazette World Featherweight Championship.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Tommy Warren – 2019 Bare Knuckle HOF Inductee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Tommy Warren (1865-1904), of Los Angeles, CA. Warren was known as a scrappy, featherweight who carried dynamite in his fists. From 1883 to 1885, Warren was the Featherweight Champion of the Pacific Coast. On December 12, 1887, he fought a 20-round draw against Ike Weir for the Featherweight Championship of the World. After scoring six straight knockouts in 1888, Warren was awarded with the second Police Gazette World Featherweight Championship.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Ike \u201cThe Belfast Spider\u201d Weir (1867-1908), of Lurgan, Ireland. Weir began his career on October 5, 1885 when he won an amateur bout in Manchester, England. He soon made a name for himself in the boxing circles as a dangerous man to fight. Because of this, few would venture into the ring with Weir, which forced him to journey to Boston, MA, in 1886. Weir was not known as a big puncher, but was a clever pugilists who used his defensive tools of ducking and rolling away from punches and then pound his adversary with swift and solid counter shots. <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

On July 20, 1887, Weir and fellow 2019 inductee Jack Havlin fought a 61-round match that began outdoors on 9:30 PM and did not end until 3:00 AM when the referee finally called the match and awarded it a draw.\"\"<\/a> <\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Weir became the third Police Gazette World Featherweight Champion on March 31, 1880 in Kouts, IN, in an 80-round match with Frank Murphy. Though it was ruled a draw by the referee, since Weir was considered the most aggressive the the two, he walked away with the title belt.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Alex and John Rinaldi outside of Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/p><\/div>\n

On January 13, 1890, \u201cTorpedo\u201d Billy Murphy KO’d Weir in 14 rounds at the California Athletic Club in San Francisco, CA (a club where future heavyweight king James J. Corbett got his start). Murphy won the title and the purse of $2,250. On November 2, 1893, with no title at stake, Weir KO’d Murphy in four rounds in their rematch.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Inside Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Following his boxing career, Weir was a horse trainer for the Vanderbilt family.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Alex Rinaldi hitting ancient speed bag in Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

2019’s Modern Bare Knuckle Inductees included the following: <\/span><\/strong>
\nBec Rawlings \u2013 The First Police Gazette World Featherweight Champion in 129 years and the first female to win the title with the belt ringside.<\/span><\/strong>
\nArnold Adams \u2013 The First Police Gazette American Heavyweight Champion in 136 yeas to win the title belt ringside.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

John Rinaldi hitting heavy bag in Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

2019’s Pioneer Referee Inducted included the following:<\/span><\/strong>
\nJohn Fitzpatrick \u2013 The referee of the historic 1889 John L. Sullivan-Jake Kilrain Bare Knuckle Heavyweight Championship contest.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Referee and BKBOF inductee Bill Clancy.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

William Barclay \u201cBat\u201d Masterson (1853-1921) \u2013 The official time keeper for Jake Kilrain in his battle against John L. Sullivan. Besides being an important boxing journalist, promoter, time keeper and referee of various boxing matches, \u201cBat\u201d Masterson is most famous as being a frontier lawman, U.S. Army scout, professional gambler and gunfighter in the 19th Century American Old West. The former Dodge City Lawman also worked with Wyatt Earp in Tombstone, Arizona Territory and later with \u201cBuffalo\u201d Bill Cody. Masterson, a close friend of President Theodore Roosevelt, was appointed by Roosevelt as deputy U.S. Marshall for the Southern District of New York. Masterson was a leading authority on boxing and attended nearly every important boxing match and championship bout from 1880 to his death in 1921. Masterson later worked as a columnist and reporter for the New York Morning Telegraph, where he died at his desk a few months after covering the Jack Dempsey vs. Georges Carpentier \u201cMillion Dollar Gate\u201d Heavyweight Championship Bout.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBOF inductee Dan Miragliotta.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

2019’s Modern Referee Inductees included the following:<\/span><\/strong>
\nBill Clancy \u2013 Ring referee who recently refereed the Cheyenne, Wyoming Bare Knuckle bouts. \u201cRefereeing Bare Knuckle bouts has been the biggest honor of my refereeing career, period,\u201d said Clancy.<\/span><\/strong>
\nDan Miragliotta \u2013 Ring referee who worked recently on the Cheyenne, Wyoming Bare Knuckle bouts. <\/span><\/strong>
\nWayne Spinola \u2013 A current referee of Boxing and Bare Knuckle contests.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBOF inductee Wayne Spinola.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

2019 Modern Organizers and Showmen Inductees included the following:<\/span><\/strong>
\nDave Feldman \u2013 The promoter and owner of Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships. Feldman promoted the recent Cheyenne, Wyoming fights and will be also promoting the upcoming Biloxi, MS, Bare Knuckle Fighting promotion. Feldman could wind up being the next Don King as being a pioneer in promoting. \u201cIt’s about loyalty, commitment and chasing dreams,\u201d said Feldman at the 2019 BKBHOF Induction Ceremony. \u201cWe got turned down by 28 states, but we never gave up and kept going,\u201d Feldman added.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBOF inductee and Bare Knuckle Champion Arnold Adams.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Gary Grant, Jr. – The architect of the modern squared-circle that is used in current Bare Knuckle Fighting contests. <\/span><\/strong>
\nJeff Houston \u2013 The colorful Ring Announcer who does a fabulous job announcing boxing matches, UFC contests and Bare Knuckle Fighting.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBOF inductee and Bare Knuckle Announcer Jeff Houston.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The Wyoming State Board of Mixed Martial Arts \u2013 Bryan Pederson, Chairman \u2013 A credit to the sport that was instrumental in licensing legal Bare Knuckle Fighting promotions.<\/span><\/strong>
\nMississippi Athletic Commission \u2013 Jon Lewis \u2013 Chairman \u2013 Another brave group who have taken on allowing professional Bare Knuckle Fighting promotions.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBOF inductee and Bare Knuckle Promoter Dave Feldman.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

2019 Marie Backus Person of the Year Award:<\/span><\/strong>
\nMort Goldsmith \u2013 The caretaker of the modern BKB Fighter’s needs.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

2019’s Honorary Inductee:<\/span><\/strong>
\n1980s-1990s Belfast Boxing Club – \u201cBe-Fast Belfast\u201d – This was a gutsy group of fighters who trained in Belfast and made their names as a feared group to reckon with in New York State and the surrounding areas. On hand to accept the induction were former members Bill Hearney, Craig Schul, Paul Staub, Brian France and Heath West.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

John and Alex In front of their exhibit in the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The 2019 Presidential Award:<\/span><\/strong>
\nAlex and John Rinaldi editors of The U.S.A. Boxing News newspaper and their website www.theusaboxingnews.com \u2013 for over 35 years of great contribution to the sport of boxing. The Award was presented to \u201cThe Boxing Twins\u201d by BKHOF President Scott Burt.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Each years a brunch banquet is held and the awards are given out.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

At the Awards, the talented painter Chris Guzman always unveils a new painting with the year’s inductees on it. The wonderful work of art not only features the inductees, but also features the Muldoon Barn. His fantastic work is on exhibit at the Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame. His artwork alone on display is worth the trek to Belfast, New York.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

John Rinaldi standing in historic ring in the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Afterwards, Scott Burt conducts a personal visit to the Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame in the Muldoon Barn, where he gives an informative narrative of the events that took place while John L. Sullivan trained there in 1889. <\/span><\/strong>
\nScott Burt has become a giant in the sport of pugilism. Not only did he single handily preserve an historic landmark in boxing with the Muldoon Farm, he organized the esteemed Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame and now is one of the men responsible for bringing Bare Knuckle Boxing back to the limelight where it deserves.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Scott Burt president of the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Note: For those who want to support the great sport of Bare Knuckle boxing, own a special-edition Knuckle Head medallion of limited production made exclusively for bare-knuckle boxing fans. Membership to the PIONEER CLUB includes a Certificate of Authenticity; name in the corporate office ledger; serialized medallion; and years of BKHOF Induction Ceremony entry! Visit WWW.PGBELT.COM to purchase.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

Keep up with the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame website at https:\/\/www.bareknuckleboxinghalloffame.com\/, <\/span><\/strong>or follow updates on The U.S.A. Boxing News website on information on various activities concerning the BKHOF and next year’s inductions.<\/span><\/strong><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
BELFAST, NEW YORK IS AT CENTER RING<\/b><\/span><\/div>\n
OF LATEST BILLION DOLLAR COMBAT SPORT<\/b><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
BILOXI, MISSISSIPPI (April 16, 2019) – \u201cEverything old is new again!\u201d This saying was never more fitting than during the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship 5 held in Biloxi, Mississippi on April 6. Scott Burt, president of both the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame in Belfast, New York and of the Police Gazette Boxing Corporation, the world\u2019s oldest sanctioning body, was in the center ring in Biloxi to present the winning boxers with the prestigious Police Gazette medallion.\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cTwenty years ago, Ultimate Fighting Championship brought mixed martial arts into the mainstream of sports with one spectacular fight which was their breakthrough event. April 6th\u2019s was ours,\u201d said Mr. Burt. \u201cEvery fight on the card was outstanding, but it was the main event – the battle between Artem Lobov and Jason Knight – that had everyone talking. This is the fight that is changing the perception of bareknuckle boxing.\u201d If you want to see what all the excitement is about, Burt recommends watching the full Lobov-Knight battle on\u00a0Fite.tv<\/a>\u00a0or on-line, as well as highlights from the other bouts.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
As president of the Police Gazette Boxing Corporation, Mr. Burt was on hand in Biloxi to present the winning boxer of each of the 10 bouts with the Police Gazette Medallion. He also declared Christine Ferea the women\u2019s American Featherweight Champion and presented her with the iconic Police Gazette Belt after she defeated Britain Hart for that title.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cEveryone at that event and the people all over the world watching on pay-per-view now know of the important place that Belfast – as the home of the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame – holds in this sport,\u201d he explained. \u201cWhat a thrilling night for bare knuckle fighting.\u201d Now legal in four states – Wyoming, Mississippi, Massachusetts, and New Mexico – bareknuckle boxing is being called the next big thing in combat sports. \u201cAnd there is Belfast, right at the center of it all,\u201d Burt said.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\u201cPromoter Dave Feldman has worked for 10 years to legalize bare knuckle boxing and make it a legitimate sport,\u201d said Mr. Burt, noting that Feldman and Police Gazette reigning World Champion Bobby Gunn get all the credit for making this happen. \u201cIt is gratifying that Dave has recognized the importance and significance of the history of the sport and I am proud to be at center ring, giving out the PG medals and the championship belts.\u201d<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
For more information, check out the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame website:\u00a0www.bareknuckleboxinghalloffame.com<\/a>\u00a0and the Police Gazette Boxing Corporation\u2019s atwww.PGBelt.com<\/a>.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Burt Announces Knuckle Town USA\u2019s\u00a02019 Hall of Fame Class!<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

February 12, 2019. BELFAST, NEW YORK – Fresh back from Cancun, Mexico, where he and Belfast were center ring giving out the historic Police Gazette Medals in a Bare Knuckle Team Mexico versus Team USA event that received 150,000 buys on World-wide pay-per-view, Scott Burt, President of the World\u2019s Only Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame dedicated to the pioneers of the sweet science, proudly announces his Class of 2019 as listed below.\u00a0 Not only did he give out stunning Police Gazette medals at the end of each of the 12 bouts, but he was also center ring as Bec Rawlings successfully put up and defended her 130 year old Police Gazette Diamond World Belt long under Scott\u2019s care. She did it against very tough Mexican fighter Cecelia Flores. Cecelia suffered a bloodied and broken nose, Bec lost a tooth and spat it out like it was no more than a piece of annoying popcorn husk.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"Reigning<\/a>

Reigning Police Gazette World Diamond Belt Holder Bec Rawlings at Weigh-ins in CanCun, Mexico. Belfast’s Scott Burt holds the World’s Oldest Active belt she successfully defends up for display be<\/span><\/strong>hind her.<\/p><\/div>\n

Scott is the only one in the World who can name World Bare Knuckle Champions, as unilaterally given that power by the oldest sanctioning body in the World in 2016, the National Police Gazette. The Gazette first sanctioned in 1881 under Richard K. Fox, publisher. The Cancun fights can still be purchased on Fite.tv<\/a>.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"Mid-fight<\/a>

Mid-fight shows Champion Bec Rawlings has got the upper hand with Challenger Cecelia Flores.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The quality, legal, bare knuckle event held in Cancun not only featured great fights, but World Champion Antonio Tarver and well-known commentator Sean Wheelock continually plugged Belfast and the July 13th<\/sup> Induction Day throughout the boxing event, promoted by David Feldman.\u00a0 Not only is Antonio a multi-time World Champion, but is also known for playing Mason Dixon in the Rocky movie series, and is a considered a good friend of Scott\u2019s.\u00a0 \u201cThe Boxing World is a very, very small community,\u201d states Scott \u201cand they have rapidly embraced our treasure here in Belfast.\u00a0 If fact, they have lovingly coined it Knuckle Town, USA and that\u2019s just awesome.\u00a0 I expect our largest Induction Day yet this year.\u00a0 What and outstanding Class of 2019 we have!\u201d (For ticket info; www.bareknuckleboxnghalloffame.com<\/a>, email srburt@aol.com<\/a>, or text 585-610-3326)<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"Moments<\/a>

Moments before the bell to start Round 1 her her title defense, Champion Bec Rawlings and Police Gazette President Scott Burt are introduced.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

2019 BARE KNUCKLE BOXING HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES<\/u>:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Fighter Inductees, in order of when title was obtained<\/u>:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Jack Havlin – 1888 Police Gazette World Featherweight Champion<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Tommy Warren – 1888 Police Gazette World Featherweight Champion<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Ike Weir – 1888 Police Gazette World Featherweight Champion<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Rebecca Rawlings – 2018 Police Gazette World Featherweight Champion<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Arnold Adams – 2018 Police Gazette American Heavyweight Champion<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"Police<\/a>

Police Gazette Caretaker Scott Burt congratulats his Champion Bec Rawlings on her successful title defense.<\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Referee Inductees<\/u>:<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

John Fitzpatrick – 1889 Sullivan-Kilrain Richburg, Mississippi, Ring Referee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

William Barclay \u2018Bat\u2019 Masterson – 1889 Sullivan-Kilrain Time Referee for Kilrain<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Bill Clancy – Modern BKB Ring Referee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Dan Miragliotta – Modern BKB Ring Referee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Wayne Spinola – Modern BKB Ring Referee<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Organizers and Showmen Inductees:<\/u><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Dave Feldman – Modern BKB Promoter (2018 BKB Promoter of the Year)<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Gary Grant – Modern Ring Architect (Builder of the Modern Circled-Square)<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Jeff Houston – Modern BKB Announcer<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Wyoming State Board of Mixed Martial Arts – Bryan Pedersen, Chairman<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Mississippi Athletic Commission – Jon Lewis, Chairman<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Honorary Inductees<\/u>:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Belfast Boxing Club Fighters, Trainers, Coaches, and Organizers from the 1980s and 90s<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\u00a0– \u201cBe-Fast Belfast\u201d<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Our Marie Backus Person of the Year<\/u>:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Mort Goldsmith – Caretaker of Fighters<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

2019 BKBHOF INDUCTION WEEKEND SCHEDULE OF EVENTS<\/u><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Friday, July 12 (Belfast, New York)<\/u>:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

8pm – Beer and Boxing – We\u2019ve reserved the upstairs conference room at the Belfast Hotel to watch some fight videos, highlighted by Billy Backus\u2019s 1970 World Welterweight fight against then Reigning Champion Jose\u2019 Napoles in Syracuse. Billy will be here with us to narrate, comment, and give some behind the scenes stories!<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

10pm – Ghost Tour of the BKBHOF – Jimmy Holmes, the first person since the Great John L. to sleep overnight in the barns 130 years ago will share some of the spooky experiences he had during the week he stayed there in a flashlight tour of the barns.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Saturday, July 13 (Belfast, New York)<\/u>:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

10am – Special Cancellation Stamping of Official 2019 Induction Postcards held at Belfast\u2019s United States Post Office on Main Street.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

10:30am – Official Ribbon Cutting of the new Police Gazette Boxing Corporation Executive Offices at 25 Main Street.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

11am – Meet & Greet with celebrities and inductees at Family Center; 3 Merton<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

12noon – Annual BKBHOF Induction Brunch and Awards at the Family Center; $55 each.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

2:30pm – Tour of the BKBHOF at 5 West Hughes Street – Scott Burt, HOF President and Historian, takes you on a tour of John L. Sullivan\u2019s original 1889 training barns that now house the World\u2019s only Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame where William Muldoon prepared him for the fight that made him a legend.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Sunday, July 14 (Belmont, New York)<\/u>:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

1pm to 6pm – Pollywogg Holler – Join us for a relaxing and truly enjoyable day at Allegany County\u2019s most unique setting, Pollywogg Holler (www.pollywoggholler.com<\/a>). A five-minute walk through the woods leads to a place truly magical. You can purchase beer, wine, wood-fired pizza and enjoy live music and outdoor dancing. Great fellowship!<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\n2018 Induction Weekend<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\nStory by John Rinaldi and Alexander J. Rinaldi<\/span>
\nPhotographs by Alex Rinaldi<\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Scott Burt -President of the Bare Knuckle boxing Hall of Fame<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

\u201cIf you don’t know history, then you don’t know anything. You are a leaf that doesn’t know it is part of a tree. \u201d <\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\n\u2015 Michael Crichton\"EBare<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Seven worthy individuals of pugilism were inducted into the historic building where such legends of John L. Sullivan and Jake Kilrain once trained for historic bouts. The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame is not just a museum, the building itself is a piece of glorious history.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span>The building was the barn of William Muldoon, a Greco-Roman wrestling champion who held the title from 1880 to 1890. Muldoon was the greatest wrestler of all-time and never lost a match.\"BKHOF0150801_102015_resized\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Although he was a great wrestler, Muldoon established an even bigger place in the history books by training the legendary John L. Sullivan for his bare knuckle superfight against Jake Kilrain in 1889.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>
\nBare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Famers Alex and John Rinaldi at the Bare knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Sullivan was woefully out of shape and many believed he would not be able to handle such a magnificent physical specimen and feared heavyweight Jake Kilrain, who was recognized by the Police Gazette as the heavyweight champion, although most of the world considered the colorful Sullivan as the rightful king of the heavyweights.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

UNC Wrestler Alexander R. Rinaldi on William Muldoons original wrestllng mat at the Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Muldoon was a no-n<\/strong><\/span>onsense trainer who made a deal with Sullivan that if John L. lost, Muldoon would be responsible for all expenses.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Former undisputed World Welterweight Champion and Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Famer Billy Backus<\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Sullivan settled into Belfast, New York, stayed at Muldoon’s home at \u201cChampion’s Rest\u201d and trained in Muldoon’s barn.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The training Sullivan endured was intense and torturous, and it all paid off as he defeated Kilrain on a 75th-round KO in a bare knuckle battle held beneath a burning sun under the London Prize Rules on July 8, 1889 in Richburg, Mississippi.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Bare Knuckle Champion Bobby Gunn (R) teaching Alexander R. Rinaldi some punching shots in the boxing ring from the Rocky II movie.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

William Muldoon gained international prominence as a great trainer after his work with Sullivan. It was ironic that the next pugilist who showed up to train with Muldoon was none other than Jake Kilrain, who arrived in Belfast in the winter of that same year to train for a fight against the rising star of boxing, \u201cGentleman\u201d Jim Corbett.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span>Although Kilrain underwent a punishing training regiment, he was outboxed by the undefeated and swift punching Corbett at the Southern Athletic Center in New Orleans, LA on February 18, 1890 and dropped a six-round decision in a gloved match.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBHOF 2018 INDUCTEE TOM JOHNSON<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Corbett would go on to dethroned Sullivan two years later.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

To have such immortals of pugilistic history train in the same building boggles that mind. In 1894 Muldoon moved from Belfast, NY to White Plains, NY and the fabled barn was soon forgotten through the years.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Famer Alexander R. Rinaldi hitting John L. Sullivans original heavy bag at the Bare knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

One person who had not forgotten the exploits that took place in the building was Scott R. Burt. A man of vision and a preserver of history, he took ownership of the barn that was on church property and moved it a few blocks to its current location at 5 Hughes Street.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBHOF 2018 INDUCTEE TOM JOHNSON IN ACTION.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Burt then took on the duties of gathering back many of the training equipment and even some of John L. Sullivan’s articles of clothing that had been scattered in homes, barns and attics in the Belfast area.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span>After assembling such historic items, Burt was only beginning to realize his dream as he turned the barn into The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame. In front of the building are marble statues of John L. Sullivan and William Muldoon.\"BKHOF20150801_105237_resized\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The year 2009 saw the first class of inductees into The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame, which included John L. Sullivan, Jake Kilrain and William Muldoon, along with others such as Jack Broughton, Tom Cribb, Richard K. Fox, George Godfrey, Bill Richmond, Tom Hyer, Paddy Ryan, Carmen Basilio, Bill Heaney, Joe Mesi and Rob Ray.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Famers John, Alex, and Alexander R. Rinaldi at the Bare knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

In 2016, The U.S.A. Boxing News joined James J. Corbett and others into the BKHOF.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBHOF 2018 INDUCTEE NAT LANGHAM.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

2018 was a big year for the BKHOF, as it opened up the Wrestling Wall of Fame on the second floor, where Muldoon trained and wrestled. The second floor also has exercise machines, liniment bottles, a rubdown room and training bars that Sullivan and Kilrain used. There is also a large display detailing the famous Sullivan-Kilrain battle designed and donated by The U.S.A. Boxing News.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

In the puzzle that is boxing history, the most important pieces are the fighters, trainers, referees, promoters, announcers, boxing publications and writers. They are the ones that make the sport great and promote the wonderful world of boxing.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>

BKBHOF 2018 INDUCTEE NAT LANGHAM IN ACTION.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame recognizes this and honors such individuals and publications in their yearly induction ceremonies held in the sleepy hamlet of Belfast, New York.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

\"\"<\/a>\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The class of 2018 into The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame included:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

ORIGINAL PIONEER BARE KNUCKLE INDUCTEES<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\nJoe \u201cThe Hammer\u201d Lannon \u2013 Heavyweight contender and chief sparring partner of John L. Sullivan.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Mike \u201cThe Ithaca Giant\u201d Conley \u2013 the 1888 Northwest American Champion.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Nat Langham \u2013 The 1857 English Middleweight Champion.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Tom Johnson \u2013 The Champion of England from 1784-1791.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

MODERN HONOREE INDUCTEES<\/span><\/strong><\/span>
\nRick Jeanneret – \u201cThe Voice of the Buffalo Sabres\u201d who has called more bare-fisted fights than any man in history.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Tony Gee \u2013 Bare Knuckle and Boxing History and World Renown Author.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Dick Topinko \u2013 A talented welterweight from Lackawanna, New York. Dick was picked as \u201cProspect of the Month\u201d by the Ring Magazine in 1970 and later that same year was picked #4 as the top five \u201cBest Prospects in the World\u201d by the publication. Sadly, a shoulder injury forced Topinko to quit boxing in 1971.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Wrestling Champion william Muldoon who trained John L. sullivan for his fight against Jake Kilrain<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Besides the inductees, referee Bill Clancy who has officiated over 900 bouts and 17 World Championship fights, was honored with the Marie Backus Person of the Year Award.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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BKBHOF 2018 INDUCTEE DICK TOPINKO<\/span><\/strong><\/span>.<\/p><\/div>\n

Team USA Sports Jujitsu Team (Bryana Baer, Mike Hanchett, Charlie Love, Desmond White and Coach Barry Broughton) were honored with the Marie Backus Team of the Year Award. The team trained in Belfast and in The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame for the 2017 World Championships in Australia, which they won! Each member was awarded with a Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame ring and pin.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame Weekend was from July 6 to July 8.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The festivities began at 6:00 PM on Friday, July 6 with the Beer, Wine, Cider 10th Anniversary Tasting Event as Saint Patrick’s Roman Catholic Hall.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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BKBHOF 2018 INDUCTEE JOE LANNON BOXING CARD.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Saturday, July 7 was Inductee Day that began at 10:00 AM with a Special Stamping at the Belfast, Post Office. From 11:00 AM and 11:30 AM, there was a Meet & Greet at the Methodist Family Center and then the Brunch and Induction Ceremony continued there from 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM. From 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM, Scott Burt gave a tour of The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame at 5 Hughes Street.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

If one has never visited The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame, it is worth the journey to upstate New York to view such a fabulous piece of history. Burt takes the visitors back in time as if they climbed into H.G. Wells’ time machine with his tour of the barn. To pick up a piece of equipment that John L. Sullivan actually used in training is astonishing. An interesting part of the tour is a stable room with a bed and old toilet that was used by Sullivan when he would break training and go out drinking. The champion had to spend the night in the barn for punishment, rather than in the comfortable accommodations of the home he resided in during his training camp.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Famers Alex and John Rinaldi at the Bare knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Besides Sullivan’s training equipment, outfits and training gear, there are framed diplays of the inductees, Jake Kilrain’s trunk and silk, along with amazing paintings by the talented artist Chris Guzman. The work of Guzman with his style of colors and design are fascinating works of art to enjoy.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Famer Alexander R. Rinaldi working on the rings at the Bare knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

In addition to the statues of Sullivan and Muldoon outside of The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame, the ring that was used by Apollo Creed (Carl Weathers) in \u201cRocky II\u201d was on display. Besides being used in the memorable 1979 film, it was also employed in past by such boxing legends as Roberto Duran and Ruben Olivares.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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BKBHOF 2018 INDUCTEE JOE LANNON.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Sunday, July 8 featured a Relaxing Day at Pollywogg Holler, which featured a band, beer, wine, soda and wood-cooked pizzas.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Bare Knuckle Boxing Hall of Famers John, Alex, and Alexander R. Rinaldi at The USA Boxing News Exhibit\u00a0 at the Bare knuckle Boxing Hall of Fame.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p><\/div>\n

Each inductee into The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame received a marvelous statue of William Muldoon holding the medicine ball that he invented for Sullivan’s training and is still used by boxers today.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Along with the inductees and honorees and their families, former undisputed World Welterweight Champion Billy Backus was on hand, along with the reigning World Heavyweight Bare Knuckle Champion Bobby Gunn. Both men were generous with their time as they happily posed for photos and signed numerous autographs with the fans.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

At the Ceremonies, Scott Burt unveiled the newly designed Police Gazette Diamond Belt to be given to current reigning bare knuckle champions.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

A great thing to witness were the two great-grand sons of Joe Lannon, who came with vintage memorabilia of Lannon, that included an original Police Gazette edition featuring Lannon’s September 17, 1888 KO win over Jim Glynn at the Boston Athletic Center in Boston, MA. The two great-grandsons also had the original Lannon and Fowler fight ticket (costing $2.99 at the time), original boxing cards featuring Lannon and the theater cast ad for \u201cHonest Hearts and Willing Hands\u201d – the play that starred Heavyweight Champion John L. Sullivan in 1891 and 1892, and featured Joe Lannon in the cast. Lannon was cast as a fighter that boxed Sullivan in the popular production.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Besides being a top heavyweight of the day, Lannon was a favorite sparring partner of Sullivan, who helped John L. train for his fights against Charlie Mitchell and other ring opponents.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Lannon was a fearless battler who fought the likes of George Godfrey, Jack Ashton, Jim Glynn, Jack Kelly, Mike Boden, Tommy Kelly, Jim Brady, Gunner White and Jake Kilrain in a career that spanned from 1884 to 1893.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Nat Langham (1820-1871) was the English Bare Knuckle Middleweight Champion from 1843 to 1857 and the only fighter who ever beat the immortal Thomas Sayers. Langham faced the challenger Sayers on October 18, 1854 at Lakenhealth, Suffolk and blinded Sayers with his two-fisted attack to Sayers’ eyes. After two hours and two minutes of savage fighting, Langham KO’d Sayers in the 61st round. Later that year, Nat suffered the only defeat of his career as he was dethroned by Harry Orme in 117 rounds and three hours. Following his pugilistic career, Langham was the matchmaking manager of Jem Mace, who became the first World Boxing Champion.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Tom Johnson (1750-1797) began boxing in 1781. Johnson’s first professional fight was against \u201cThe Croydon Drover\u201d in March of 1784, where he pummeled Drover in 27 minutes. Three months later, Johnson was matched with Stephen \u201cDeath\u201d Oliver in Blackheath before thousands of fans. Tom finished off Oliver in 35 minutes to capture the Championship of England.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Johnson next defended his laurels against Bill Love on January 13, 1786 and finished off the challenger in 5 minutes, and earned 50 Guineas. The next month Tom defeated Jack Towers. Johnson took on a fighter called Fry on June 6, 1876 and beat up the challenger in 30 minutes.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Tom took on all comers and kept winning until he faced Ben Bryan, who he had previously beaten. On January 17, 1791, Bryan left Johnson unconscious on the ring floor after 21 minutes of fighting.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

Mike \u201cThe Ithaca Giant\u201d Conley (1860-1920) was born in Towanda, PA, but later moved to Ithaca, New York, where he began his boxing career. Conley’s first bout was a draw against Jack Ashton at the Ithaca Rink, in Ithaca, NY on May 15, 1886. Conley fought from 1886 to 1894 and was one of the most feared heavyweights of his day. Mike defeated such outstanding fighters such as Con Riley, C.F. Fisher, Dick Sullivan, Dave Flaherty, John P. Clow, Bill Gabig, Ed Donaldson, Joe Godfrey, Mike Monoghan, John Wiley, Pat Heeney and John Heenan.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

BKBHOF President Scott Burt is an unsung hero in the sport of boxing, especially in memorializing those brave souls who fought during the bare knuckle era under the London Prize Rules. Not only does he honor the past bare knuckle days, but is currently in the process of bringing bare knuckle boxing back to prominence with new champions in the present day.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame and Scott Burt promote the gutsy fighters of the bygone days and gives recognition to a wonderful pugilistic sport.<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

John L. Sullivan is still a recognized name in the annals of boxing history. For any boxing fan who cherishes the rich history of the sport, there is no better place to visit than The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame.\"\"<\/a><\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

For further information go to the official website of The Bare Knuckle Hall of Fame at:<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

http:\/\/bareknuckleboxinghalloffame.com\/<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

OF FAME<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

PRESS RELEASE<\/u><\/strong>; for immediate release\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

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Boxing from a bygone era comes to life in Belfast<\/strong><\/span><\/h1>\n

Bare Knuckle Boxing HOF getting ready for Class of 2018<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\n
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By:<\/span>\u00a0\u00a0PRESCOTT ROSSI<\/a>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n