Young Griffo vs. Sam Tonkins

Young Griffo beat Sam Tonkins by PTS in round 10 of 10

• Date: 1896-06-01
• Location: South Brooklyn A.C., Brooklyn, New York, USA
• Referee: Johnny Eckhardt

• Referee: John Eckhardt

Associated Press, June 2, 1896:

"Griffo and Tonkins fought at catch weights. Tonkins surprised the crowd by his quick work. He kept Griffo busy all the time, and when the latter did land, his blows were weak. Both fought fast, and Griffo roughed a good deal in the ninth, and was given the decision."

Brooklyn Eagle, June 2, 1896:

"The last and star bout, between Young Griffo and Sam Tonkins of Astoria, was a pretty exhibition. Griffo was not in good shape, while his opponent was trained to the hour. Tonkins started in at once and landed effectively in the first round. He followed his vantage, and in the second round made the clever Australian hustle to keep out of his way.

"Up to the sixth round Tonkins more than held his own and was not afraid of his opponent. He continued to do most of the leading, but the phenomenal defense of Griffo prevented him from landing. Griffo started in the seventh round and landed when and where he pleased. They mixed it up in the eighth and ninth rounds, but Tonkins began to tire. The tenth round was lively. Griffo immediately led and landed three straight punches on the jaw. Tonkins clinched, and in the breakaway jabbed Griffo. They were at it hammer and tongs when the bell sounded. The referee decided in favor of Griffo—a just decision. The latter knew, however, that he had been in a scrap and had to work harder than he has for a long time to get the decision."