A stunning new find, this stands as the earliest known boxing book and the only one from the 18th century as well. The only one we know of in private hands, it is 88 pages in length with iconic frontispiece of pugilist Thomas Johnson. Entitled, "Boxing Reviewed or, The Science of Manual Defence," this is the 1790 first edition by Thomas Fewtrell, printed in London. It has been rebound in mid-19th century leather boards, the front cover is separated but could be easily repaired. Displayed on rational principles, this precious tome holds a complete description of the principle pugilists, from the earliest period of Broughton's time, to the present day. Move over "Pancratia," which was the former king of boxing books and was thought to be the earliest boxing book (also in this same auction). Long Live The King.