On 10 March 1888 World Heavyweight Champion John L.Sullivan faced old
nemesis Charley Mitchell in a bare-knuckle fight, which took place on
the estate grounds of Baron Alphonse Rothschild near Chantilly, just
north of Paris, probably without the knowledge of the Rothschild
family. In a bruising encounter, wherein at one stage Sullivan was
heard roar: “Fight like a gentleman, you son of a bitch, if you can,”
Mitchell forced Sullivan to a draw after thirty-nine frustrating
rounds. Sullivan chased by the French police left for the United
States immediately after the fight. Presented here is a American Flag-
Silk of John L. Sullivan for this fight with Charley Mitchell. It
measures 36” x 36” and has bold red, white and blue color. There is
an American Eagle and under it in scroll is written, May He Always Be
Champion.” In the lower right corner are the initials, JLS (for John
L. Sullivan). Some fraying with a 3 inch tear at the stars. Overall
excellent condition. A rare and beautiful commemorative from one of
Sullivan’s most celebrated fights.