JO Sports, Inc.
HISTORY: Jack Burke (January 1, 1869 – October 25, 1913) was a boxer who fought in the longest gloved ring battle on record in the late 19th century.
Burke went 110 rounds with Andy Bowen at the Olympic Club in New Orleans on April 6, 1893, in a bout which lasted 7 hours and 19 minutes. The marathon fight was called a "no contest" by referee John Duffy when neither man could continue. Burke broke all the bones in both of his hands and remained bed ridden for 6 weeks after the fight. Burke considered retiring after the fight, but chose to continue competing. Andy Bowen had originally scheduled the fight with another opponent, however after dropping out of the fight, Jack Burke, who was the latter's trainer, fought the bout instead.
It was reported that the fight went for so long, that the spectators who stayed to watch the fight had fallen asleep in their seats. It was also recorded that at round 108, with no clear end in sight, referee John Duffy made the decision that if no winner had emerged in the next 2 rounds, the bout would be ruled a no contest.
"Texas" Jack Burke died at Mublenberg Hospital in October 1913 at the age of 44.
Offered here is a check from the Olympic Club to Jack Burke which he has signed on the back. Dated February 22, 1893 this was likely an advanced payment for Burke's historic fight with Andy Bowen.
FULL DESCRIPTION: This is an original Olympic Club check made payable to Jack Burke which he has endorsed in ink on the back. Dated 2/22/1893. Corner wear. Center fold with slight separation at bottom border. Mild foxing. 4 stamps which penetrate the check, but do not affect the signature. 3" x 8 1/4." Exceedingly rare signature of this notable early gloved fighter.
