John L. Sullivan was born on October 15, 1858 in Roxbury, MA. He is the link between bare knuckles and glove fighting and is considered to have been one of the best heavyweights ever. He held the undisputed World Heavyweight Boxing Championship for 10 years, winning it in 1882 from Paddy Ryan and losing it in 1892 to James J. Corbett. Other notable fighters he defeated included Jake Kilrain, Charlie Mitchell and Dominic McCaffrey. This ink signature of Sullivan dates from 1894 and is on lined paper. Signed in fountain pen, "Compliments of John L. Sullivan Nov 4th 1894." Some paper and glue remnants on reverse from being mounted at one time. Not creased. Minor scratch above the name Sullivan. 2 3/4" x 5".