Legendary boxer (1863–1917) who was the sport’s first three-division world champion, winning the middleweight title in 1891, the heavyweight title in 1897, and the light-heavyweight title in 1903. Scarce vintage ink signature, “Bob Fitzsimmons, Training Quarters, Bergin Beach, LI NY,” on an off-white 9.5 x 2 lightly-lined slip. Slip is dated at the top in another hand, “July 31, 1900.” Consignor notes this was removed from the ledger at Fitzsimmons’ camp while he was preparing for his fights with Gus Ruhlin and Jack Sharkey at Bergin Beach. Moderate toning to upper portion of slip from adhesive remnant on reverse affecting signature and much of the writing, chipping to top edge, and scattered creasing and wrinkling, otherwise very good condition.
In the span of just a few weeks, Fitzsimmons would face not one but two opponents in the ring. His physical routine must have gone well, as on August 10, 1900, he bested Ruhlin in a six-round drubbing at Madison Square Garden. Training was interrupted about a week later, on August 18, as he participated in another fight at the Garden—this one an exhibition benefiting John L. Sullivan. Fitzsimmons ended the month with an August 24 two-round knock-out of Sharkey. A seldom seen signature. Pre-certified Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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