John L. Sullivan was born on October 15, 1858 in Roxbury, Boston, MA. He is the link between bare knuckles and glove fighting and is considered to be one of the best heavyweights ever. He held the undisputed World Heavyweight Boxing Championship for ten years, winning it in 1882 from Paddy Ryan and losing it in 1892 to James J. Corbett. Presented here is a beautiful original advertising silk of John L. Sullivan done by New York Illustrated News. The silk features Sullivan in bust pose flanked by his colors. Signed by Arthur Lumley of the NY Illustrated News in lower right corner. Has some fading, soiling, staining and has been matted. 25.5"x31.5."