JO Sports Inc.
HISTORY: William Muldoon (May 25, 1852 – June 3, 1933) was the Greco-Roman Wrestling Champion, physical culturist and the first chairman of the New York State Athletic Commission. He once wrestled a match that lasted over seven hours. Nicknamed "The Solid Man," Muldoon established himself as champion in Greco-Roman wrestling in the 1880s and over the years gained a remarkable measure of public influence that would continue through his days as a health farm proprietor in Westchester County and his service on NYSAC. Muldoon was a mainstay in New York sports for over 50 years. In 1889 Muldoon trained John L. Sullivan for his famous 75-round fight against Jake Kilrain for the world heavyweight bare-knuckle boxing championship. He had done so on a friendly wager and offered to absorb expenses if Sullivan lost. Sullivan won and Muldoon gained national notice for restoring the boxing champion to fighting form after Sullivan was dismissed by the press and sporting public as a hopelessly dissipated wreck. Muldoon's methods at accomplishing Sullivan's rejuvenation gained much public interest. Muldoon was never defeated for his Greco-Roman Championship.
Offered here is a rare original, first generation, large format photograph of William Muldoon in period attire which he has boldly signed and inscribed to American businessman Richard Gimbel.
FULL DESCRIPTION: This is a rare original, first generation, large format photograph of William Muldoon in period attire which he has boldly signed and inscribed to American businessman Richard Gimbel. Bold, clear image. Clean front and back. Has a mild fold at center (not very noticeable under glass). No tears. Boldly signed and inscribed in ink, "To my Friend Richard Gimbel With Best Wishes from William Muldoon August 1930." Photographer stamp at lower right corner. Printed on heavy stock. Biography of Muldoon taped to reverse. 9 3/4" x 13 1/2."
Exceedingly rare and the finest signed photo of William Muldoon we have handled.
