Addendum (11/24 – 10:59 am): We have briefly edited the original
description based upon new information provided to us by an eminent boxing
historian. The changes deal strictly with a few minor historical inaccuracies
relating to the boxer or boxers referenced here. All our original information
pertaining to the item (or items) offered in the lot (condition, provenance,
dimensions, etc.) remains unchanged and is accurate.
An extremely rare 1890s cabinet card of British boxer Dick Burge,
who is an interesting character, and whose story was publicized in recent times
on the Boxing Channel. Gaining recognition as world lightweight
champion (English version) by his defeat of Jem Carney in 1891, Burge battled
not only top men in his weight division but on occasions gave away significant
weight in catchweight contests against much heavier men. After his fighting career was over, Burge was implicated and involved
in the famous Goudie Affair in Great Britain. This scandal involved horse
racing, forgery, and unsettled debts. Burge was found guilty of involvement in
the deed and was sentenced to 10 years in prison. He served seven years and was
ultimately released due to good behavior. Upon his release, he went on to buy
an abandoned chapel and converted it into the Ring, which became one of
London's most famous and respected boxing venues. When WWI began, Burge sought
to serve his country and enlisted at age 50 as an ambulance driver and medic.
He caught pneumonia during his service and died. His funeral was attended by
over 3,000 mourners and the King and Queen sent a sympathy card to his widow.
The card measures 6.5x4.5" and was produced by J. Robinson & Sons The
Regent Studios in London. It is in VG-EX condition with some corner rounding. A
fine example of one of boxing's most colorful and diverse personalities.