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HISTORY: James Joseph "Gene" Tunney (May 25, 1897 – November 7, 1978) was an American professional boxer who competed from 1915 to 1928. He held the world heavyweight title from 1926 to 1928, and the American light heavyweight title twice between 1922 and 1923. A highly technical boxer, Tunney had a five-fight light heavyweight rivalry with Harry Greb in which he won three, drew once, and lost once, though many ringside reporters believed Greb should have won the decision in their 2nd meeting. He also knocked out Georges Carpentier and defeated Jack Dempsey twice; first in 1926 and again in 1927. Tunney's successful title defense against Dempsey remains one of the most famous bouts in boxing history and is known as The Long Count Fight. He retired undefeated as a heavyweight after his victory over Tom Heeney in 1928, after which Tunney was named Fighter of the Year by The Ring magazine.
Offered here is a print of a pencil sketch of Gene Tunney, done by James Montgomery Flagg, which has been signed by Gene Tunney as world heavyweight champion. From the collection of Norma Lowensohn who was a ticket distributer for Tex Rickard for the second Dempsey-Tunney fight in Chicago.
FULL DESCRIPTION: This is a print of a pencil sketch of Gene Tunney by noted artist James Montgomery Flagg. On lower right in ink it is signed by Tunney, "Best wishes Gene Tunney Oct 19-26." Signed as world heavyweight champion less than a month after winning that title from Jack Dempsey. Bold, clear image. Clean. Not creased or torn. Paper residue on back from being mounted. 6 1/2" x 9 1/4." From the collection of Norma Lowensohn who was a ticket distributer for Tex Rickard for the second Dempsey-Tunney fight in Chicago. A companion pencil sketch print of Dempsey (not for sale here) was part of the collection and was inscribed to Lowensohn by Dempsey.
