Tommy Burns vs. Fireman Jim Flynn
Tommy Burns 170 lbs beat Fireman Jim Flynn 169 lbs by KO in round 15 of 20
- Date: 1906-10-02
- Location: Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, USA
- Referee: Eddie Robinson
- World Heavyweight Title (3rd defense by Burns)
The October 3, 1906, edition of the Los Angeles Herald called the fight one of "the most terrific battles ever witnessed among heavyweights."
The following is from the Herald's report:
Nine minutes after Tommy Burns sent Jim Flynn to the floor for the fourth and last time last night, in the fifteenth round, the Coloradoan was carried from the ring in a semiconscious condition. During the final minutes of the grueling contest Flynn received terrific head punishment, and despite the efforts of his seconds, could not be revived for a considerable length of time. Although no serious results are anticipated, the occurrence might have been avoided had Referee Robinson remained firm in his decision after counting Flynn out when the game miner went down for the second time beneath Burns' heavy blows. Flynn appeared out, and Robinson tolled off the ten seconds, saying "You're out!" after making the count. Flynn, however, found his feet Just at the call, and made a brave attempt to continue the fighting. Burns had him helpless, however, and Flynn dropped again to the floor as a result of no particular blow. With Flynn on the mat, Robinson cautioned him to rise, with the provision that he would disqualify him. The miner again regained his feet and once more Burns sent him to the floor, this time for good. Flynn's seconds dashed into the ring and endeavored to revive the fallen gladiator who lay stretched on the canvas. Difficulty was experienced by the police in clearing the circle where excited spectators surged between the ropes to catch a glimpse of the defeated man, who lay senseless. The action of Robinson in allowing Flynn to continue after he had called him out created amazement among those at the ringside. Robinson admitted last night that he erred in not stopping the go, and offered as explanation that he feared a violent protest would have resulted had he interfered under the circumstances. "The count was so close," said Robinson, "that I feared an uproar from the house, which might not understand that I had made the count."
Newspaper Article
"Colorado Boy Is Knocked Out In Fifteenth Round" By Ed Moriarty, Los Angeles Herald, October 3, 1906