Robert Fitzsimmons

The legendary Bob Fitzsimmons (1862-1917), known as Rubin for his fiery red hair, was the last of a dozen children in the family of Irishman James Fitzsimmons and his wife Jane. They live in England in Cornwall. When Bob was nine years old the family moved to New Zealand.
At the new place Robert Fitzsimmons began boxing and parallel work in the smithy, helping his older brother Jarrett. This work has helped him to develop the upper body and strengthen the muscles of hands.
Being in opposition to the authorities of New Zealand, Bob decided to move, and soon his first wife, Alice arrives in Australia. Here, within a day he earns a living on the anvil, and all his spare time devotes decrepit arena Sydney. Fitzsimmons scored one victory after another and soon became a champion of the national championship.
In 1890, Robert decided to try his hand in America, and arrives in San Francisco. After three quick victories, he meets with world champion in the middleweight champion Jack Dempsey. The battle took place in 1891 in New Orleans and in heavy exhausting struggle, Bob sends his opponent in the knockout round of 14. After this victory, he repeatedly defended his title.
Now Fitzsimmons talked about and the fans and boxing experts. Bob wanted to meet with world champion in the heavyweight division, James Corbett - "Gentlemen Jim". Within two years of negotiations have been unsuccessful, tk. Americans do not want to risk losing the world crown, and only after Robert took U.S. citizenship, the fight took place.
Preparing for battle on a daily basis Fitzsimmons fought hand lion named Nero. Curious spectators of this extraordinary contest were paid 25 cents to see the unusual sight. Interest in the upcoming fight in every way has been fueled, as was first planned to take the fight on film.
March 17, 1897 Robert Fitzsimmons defeated James Corbett and was second in the history of the absolute champion. Bob kept his precious title for two years until he agreed to defend him against the giant James Jeffreys. 9.06.1899, he lost his honorary title passing knockout blow in the 11th round. Later Fitzsimmons tried once again to select the champion's crown, but was knocked out in the 8th round.
Fitzsimmons was boxing phenomenon. He wore the title of world champion in the middleweight (from 1891 to 1894.) Light heavyweight (from 1903 to 1905.) And heavy (from 1897 to 1899.). Champion died of pneumonia in Chicago, 22nd October 1917 at age 54. He is buried at Graceland Cemetery not far from Jack Johnson, another world champion in the heavyweight division.