Just how good. . .

[cocka09]

Was Nonpareil Jack Dempsey? I know he was beaten, badly, by Bob Fitzsimmons but surely there is no shame in that?
I've never came across any fighters who have been dubbed Nonpareli, is the name really fitting?

[HomicideHenry]

Was Nonpareil Jack Dempsey? I know he was beaten, badly, by Bob Fitzsimmons but surely there is no shame in that?
I've never came across any fighters who have been dubbed Nonpareli, is the name really fitting?

At one point and time in the annals of boxing history, there was no one more famous than the kid who came to America from Ireland's poverty stricken shores. There were more fighters spawned on because of this man's existence, than anyone else in history. He was a middleweight, with the star power of a heavyweight--- back when that really meant something anyways. The saddest tragedy, though, was for several years his grave was lost to history. Wasnt until the late 1800's-early 1900's that his grave was found, and the poem "Jack Dempsey's Grave" became iconic and even was required reading and recital in public school systems for many years.

You asked if the name fits... whether in life, or be it death... the name most certainly fits.

[cocka09]

Cheers Henry. I know that when he came up against Ruby he was already declining from TB; how do you think he would fare against Ruby in his prime? I also think he could have taken Tommy Ryan quite easily if they had of crossed paths earlier in life.

[HomicideHenry]

From what I understand, Dempsey was just as skilled as he was dirty--- so, he would of been a helluva opponent for any man. While I am a huge fan of Bob Fitzsimmons, for his pound for pound status and amazing strength despite his size, I think prime for prime Fitzsimmons would of had some issues and problems with Dempsey. I know that is a safe answer, but the edge and favor goes to Fitzsimmons--- however it wouldnt of came easy.