Battling Nelson

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Battling Nelson
Battling Nelson.jpg
Nelson c. 1900s
Statistics
Real nameOscar Mathæus Nielsen
Nickname(s)The Durable Dane
Weight(s)Lightweight
NationalityDanish
Born(1882-06-05)5 June 1882
Copenhagen, Denmark
Died7 February 1954(1954-02-07) (aged 71)
Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
StanceOrthodox
Boxing record
Total fights134
Wins69
Wins by KO40
Losses33
Draws27
1911 cartoon of Nelson and his future wife Fay King, drawn by herself for his guide The wonders of the Yellowstone National Park.
Marker commemorating the 1906 Gans-Nelson fight.

Oscar Matthew "Battling" Nelson (June 5, 1882 – February 7, 1954), was a Danish-American professional boxer who held the World Lightweight championship. He was also nicknamed "the Durable Dane".

Personal history[]

Nelson was born Oscar Mathæus Nielsen in Copenhagen, Denmark, on June 5, 1882. He emigrated to the United States the following year and was raised in Hegewisch, a neighborhood on the Southeast side of Chicago.

In 1913, he married Fay King, a cartoonist who did his portrait for Nelson's 1911 guide The Wonders of the Yellowstone National Park.[1] In 1916, they had a very public divorce.[2][3]

Nelson died February 7, 1954 in Chicago, Illinois, from lung cancer.[4] The Veteran Boxing Association paid for part of the cost of his funeral; his ex-wife paid the remainder, in addition to purchasing "beautiful arrangements" for the ceremony.[5]

Boxing career[]

Nelson began boxing professionally at age fourteen, in 1896. He fought for the vacant white lightweight title against Jimmy Britt on December 20, 1904, but lost a twenty-round decision. He lost to Abe Attell in 1905, but beat Jack O'Neill to secure another shot at the white championship on September 9, 1905, finally beating Britt by an 18-round knockout.

He defeated Terry McGovern in a no decision Newspaper decision, but then faced a greater challenge when he was given the opportunity to challenge the reigning world lightweight champion Joe Gans on September 3, 1906, in Goldfield, Nevada. Gans dropped Nelson repeatedly during the bout, but could not knock him out. Finally, in the forty-second round, Nelson hit Gans below the belt causing him to lose the fight by disqualification .

In 1907 and 1908, Nelson split a pair of bouts with Britt and fought Attell to a draw. He then challenged Gans again for the world lightweight title on July 4, 1908. This time he knocked Gans out in the seventeenth round. Two months later, Nelson knocked out Gans in the twenty-first round.

In 1909, Nelson fought Ad Wolgast in a fight held over the lightweight limit. Wolgast beat him, and Nelson gave Wolgast a chance at his title on February 22, 1910. Eventually unable to see due to the accumulation of punches, Nelson lost the title when the referee stopped the fight in either the fortieth or the forty-second round.[6]

Nelson continued to fight, and in 1917, he challenged Freddie Welsh for the lightweight title. He lost a twelve-round decision and retired from fighting in 1920.

He was elected to the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1992.

In 2016, award-winning biographer Mark Allen Baker published the first comprehensive biography on Nelson with McFarland, a leading independent publisher of academic and nonfiction books.

Motion pictures of Nelson's fights[]

A motion picture of the second Gans-Nelson fight in Colma, California, was shown in theaters across the country. Above, reporter-artist Marguerite Martyn sketched her impression of women watching the fight in St. Louis, Missouri, in October 1908.

The second Gans-Nelson battle in Colma was the subject of a four-reel motion picture that played in major cities around the country.

Professional boxing record[]

All information in this section is derived from BoxRec,[7] unless otherwise stated.

Official record[]

Professional record summary hide
134 fights 59 wins 20 losses
By knockout 40 3
By decision 19 16
By disqualification 0 1
Draws 22
No contests 5
Newspaper decisions/draws 28
All newspaper decisions are officially regarded as “no decision” bouts and are not counted as a win, loss or draw.
No. Result Record Opponent Type Round Date Location Note
134 Loss 59–20–22 (33) United Kingdom Freddie Welsh NWS 12 Apr 17, 1917 United States Coliseum, Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S. World lightweight title at stake;
(via KO only)
133 Win 59–20–22 (32) United States Pierce Matthews TKO 8 (12) Mar 17, 1917 United States Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S.
132 Loss 58–20–22 (32) United States Jimmy Reagan PTS 10 Nov 5, 1915 United States 20th Century A.C., Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
131 Loss 58–19–22 (31) United States Bobby Waugh PTS 20 Sep 6, 1915 Mexico Plaza de Toros, Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico
130 Win 58–18–22 (31) United States Dale Gardner KO 2 (?) Apr 24, 1915 Cuba Havana, Cuba
129 Win 57–18–22 (31) United States Jimmy Fryer PTS 25 Mar 24, 1915 Cuba Havana, Cuba
128 Win 56–18–22 (31) United States Stewart Donnelly KO 3 (?) Mar 18, 1915 Cuba Havana, Cuba
127 Win 55–18–22 (31) United States Cliff Ford PTS 6 Aug 19, 1913 United States Soo Opera House, Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, U.S.
126 Loss 54–18–22 (31) United States Ad Wolgast NWS 10 Oct 13, 1913 United States Southside A.A., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
125 Loss 54–18–22 (30) United States Pat Bradley NWS 6 (10) May 3, 1913 United States National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
124 Loss 54–18–22 (29) Canada Gilbert Gallant PTS 12 Apr 29, 1913 United States Arena (Armory A.A.), Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
123 Draw 54–17–22 (29) United States Bay Wood PTS 12 Apr 19, 1913 United States Elm Rink, New Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S.
122 Win 54–17–21 (29) United States Mike Malone NWS 10 Mar 27, 1913 United States Pueblo, Colorado, U.S.
121 Loss 54–17–21 (28) United States Frank Ray Whitney NWS 10 Mar 5, 1913 United States Armory Auditorium, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. No decision rendered by prior agreement. Whitney won Newspaper Decision
120 Draw 54–17–21 (27) United States Bay Wood PTS 12 Feb 22, 1913 United States Bristol Arena, New Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S.
119 Win 54–17–20 (27) United States Joe Burke NWS 10 Feb 17, 1913 United States Orpheum Theatre, Easton, Pennsylvania, U.S.
118 Win 54–17–20 (26) United States Harry Dillon TKO 10 (10) Feb 11, 1913 United States Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, U.S.
117 Win 53–17–20 (26) United States Jack Sorenson NWS 10 Feb 5, 1913 United States Lakeside Auditorium, Racine, Wisconsin, U.S.
116 Loss 53–17–20 (25) United States Frankie Russell PTS 10 Jan 3, 1913 United States Greenwall Theater, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. Nelson claimed he fought under the belief that without a knockout the bout would be declared a draw or no decision
115 Loss 53–16–20 (25) United States Yankee Schwartz NWS 8 Dec 31, 1912 United States Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
114 Draw 53–16–20 (24) United States Jim Bonner PTS 10 Dec 20, 1912 United States Walker's Hall, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, U.S.
113 Draw 53–16–19 (24) United States Teddy Maloney NWS 6 Dec 13, 1912 United States Olympia A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
112 Loss 53–16–19 (23) United States Leach Cross NWS 10 Nov 28, 1912 United States 44th Street A.C., New Amsterdam Opera House, New York City, New York, U.S.
111 Win 53–16–19 (22) United States Art Stewart NWS 10 Nov 14, 1912 United States Hammond, Indiana, U.S.
110 Draw 53–16–19 (21) United States Steve Ketchel PTS 15 Sep 2, 1912 United States Saint Joseph, Missouri, U.S.
109 Loss 53–16–18 (21) Canada Mickey MacIntyre NWS 12 Jul 12, 1912 Canada Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
108 Win 53–16–18 (20) United States Andy Bezenah NWS 12 Jul 1, 1912 Canada Auditorium Rink, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
107 Draw 53–16–18 (19) United States Sammy Trott PTS 15 Mar 1, 1912 United States Dayton, Ohio, U.S.
106 Draw 53–16–17 (19) Japan Young Togo PTS 6 Feb 26, 1912 United States Athletic Club, Fort Smith, Arkansas, U.S.
105 Loss 53–16–16 (19) United States Tommy O'Rourke NWS 10 Jan 9, 1912 United States Springfield, Missouri, U.S.
104 Win 53–16–16 (18) United States Jack Redmond PTS 20 Dec 31, 1911 United States West Side A.C., Gretna, Louisiana, U.S.
103 Loss 52–16–16 (18) United States One Round Hogan NWS 10 Dec 22, 1911 United States Madison A.C., New York City, New York, U.S.
102 Win 52–16–16 (17) United States Willie Howard NWS 10 Dec 18, 1911 United States Irving A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, New York, U.S.
101 Win 52–16–16 (16) Canada Bobby Wilson NWS 10 Dec 15, 1911 United States Oneida County A.C., Utica, New York, U.S.
100 Draw 52–16–16 (15) United States Andy Bezenah NWS 10 Dec 4, 1911 United States Jeffersonville, Indiana, U.S.
99 Win 52–16–16 (14) United States Joseph Spero KO 6 (20) Nov 30, 1911 Canada Agnes Street Theatre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
98 Draw 51–16–16 (14) France Louis De Ponthieu NWS 10 Nov 25, 1911 United States Convention Hall, Buffalo, New York, U.S.
97 Win 51–16–16 (13) United States Tommy Moore TKO 9 (10) Nov 10, 1911 United States Convention Hall, Buffalo, New York, U.S.
96 Draw 50–16–16 (13) United States Frank Loughrey NWS 10 Nov 6, 1911 United States Grogan A.C., Watervliet, New York, U.S.
95 Win 50–16–16 (12) United States Monte Dale PTS 15 Oct 25, 1911 United States Mechanics Hall, Manchester, New Hampshire, U.S.
94 Loss 49–16–16 (12) United States George Alger NWS 6 Oct 19, 1911 United States Augusta, Maine, U.S.
93 Loss 49–16–16 (12) German Empire Philadelphia Pal Moore PTS 12 Oct 17, 1911 United States Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
92 Win 49–15–16 (12) United States Willie Beecher NWS 10 Oct 11, 1911 United States Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
91 Loss 49–15–16 (11) United States Milburn Saylor PTS 12 Oct 3, 1911 United States Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
90 Win 49–14–16 (11) United States Billy Nixon TKO 10 (12) Sep 19, 1911 United States Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
89 Win 48–14–16 (11) United States Tommy Gaffney TKO 5 (10) Aug 4, 1911 United States Opera House, Medford, Oregon, U.S.
88 Draw 47–14–16 (11) Canada Percy Cove PTS 6 Jul 4, 1911 United States Fairgrounds, Bellingham, Washington, U.S.
87 Loss 47–14–15 (11) United Kingdom Owen Moran KO 11 (20) Nov 26, 1910 United States Blot's Arena, San Francisco, California, U.S.
86 Draw 47–13–15 (11) United States Anton LaGrave PTS 15 Oct 31, 1910 United States Dreamland Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
85 Win 47–13–14 (11) United States Monte Dale TKO 3 (10) Oct 10, 1910 United States Hippodrome, Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
84 Loss 46–13–14 (11) United States Ad Wolgast TKO 40 (45) Feb 22, 1910 United States Arena, Point Richmond, California, U.S. Lost world lightweight title
83 Win 46–12–14 (11) United States Eddie Lang TKO 8 (8) Jan 21, 1910 United States Memphis A.C., Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. Retained world lightweight title
82 Loss 45–12–14 (11) United States Ad Wolgast NWS 10 Jul 13, 1909 United States Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
81 Win 45–12–14 (10) United States Jack Clifford TKO 5 (15) Jun 22, 1909 United States Auditorium, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.
80 Win 44–12–14 (10) United States Dick Hyland KO 23 (45) May 29, 1909 United States Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S. Retained world lightweight title
79 Win 43–12–14 (10) United States Joe Gans KO 21 (45) Sep 9, 1908 United States Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S. Retained world lightweight title
78 Win 42–12–14 (10) United States Joe Gans KO 17 (45) Jul 4, 1908 United States Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S. Won world lightweight title
77 Draw 41–12–14 (10) United States Abe Attell PTS 15 Mar 31, 1908 United States Coliseum, San Francisco, California, U.S.
76 Draw 41–12–13 (10) United States Jimmy Britt NWS 10 Mar 3, 1908 United States Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
75 Loss 41–12–13 (9) German Empire Rudy Unholz NWS 10 Feb 4, 1908 United States Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
74 Win 41–12–13 (8) United States Jack Clifford KO 5 (20) Jan 13, 1908 United States Opera House, Ogden, Utah, U.S.
73 Loss 40–12–13 (8) United States Jimmy Britt PTS 20 Jul 31, 1907 United States Auditorium Rink, San Francisco, California, U.S. Lost world 'white' lightweight title
72 Loss 40–11–13 (8) United States Joe Gans DQ 42 (?) Sep 3, 1906 United States Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, U.S. For world lightweight title
71 Win 40–10–13 (8) United States Terry McGovern NWS 6 Mar 14, 1906 United States National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
70 Win 40–10–13 (7) United States Jimmy Britt KO 18 (20) Sep 9, 1905 United States Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S. Won world 'white' lightweight title
69 Win 39–10–13 (7) United States Jack O'Neil NWS 6 Jun 6, 1905 United States National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
68 Draw 39–10–13 (6) United States Kid Sullivan PTS 6 Jun 2, 1905 United States Eureka A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
67 Loss 39–10–12 (6) United States Abe Attell NWS 6 May 22, 1905 United States National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
66 Win 39–10–12 (5) United States Young Corbett II TKO 9 (20) Feb 28, 1905 United States Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
65 Loss 38–10–12 (5) United States Jimmy Britt PTS 20 Dec 20, 1904 United States Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S. For vacant world 'white' lightweight title
64 Win 38–9–12 (5) United States Young Corbett II TKO 10 (20) Nov 29, 1904 United States Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
63 Win 37–9–12 (5) United States Aurelio Herrera PTS 20 Sep 5, 1904 United States Montana A.C., Butte, Montana, U.S.
62 Win 36–9–12 (5) United States Eddie Hanlon TKO 19 (20) Jul 29, 1904 United States Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
61 Win 35–9–12 (5) Republic of Ireland Martin Canole KO 18 (20) May 20, 1904 United States Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
60 Win 34–9–12 (5) United States Joe Spider Welsh TKO 16 (20) Apr 5, 1904 United States Salt Palace, Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.
59 Win 33–9–12 (5) United States Jack O'Neil PTS 6 Feb 5, 1904 United States Badger A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
58 Win 32–9–12 (5) United States Art Simms KO 3 (6) Jan 16, 1904 United States Milwaukee A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
57 Win 31–9–12 (5) United States Clarence English PTS 15 Dec 28, 1903 United States Saint Joseph, Missouri, U.S.
56 Win 30–9–12 (5) United States George Memsic PTS 6 Nov 10, 1903 United States Badger A.C., Milwaukee, U.S.
55 Loss 29–9–12 (5) United States Charles Neary PTS 6 Oct 16, 1903 United States Badger A.C., Milwaukee, U.S.
54 NC 29–8–12 (5) United States Daredevil Tildon NC 2 (?) Sep 3, 1903 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S. Police stopped the fight
53 Loss 29–8–12 (4) United States Eddie Sterns KO 9 (?) Aug 26, 1903 United States Michigan City, Indiana, U.S.
52 Draw 29–7–12 (4) United States Mickey Riley PTS 15 Jul 24, 1903 United States Hurley, Wisconsin, U.S.
51 NC 29–7–11 (4) United States Mickey Riley NC 11 (?) Jul 15, 1903 United States Ashland, Wisconsin, U.S. Police stopped the fight
50 Draw 29–7–11 (3) United States Clarence English PTS 15 Jun 27, 1903 United States Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
49 Win 29–7–10 (3) United States Larry McDonald KO 4 (?) Jun 20, 1903 United States Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
48 Draw 28–7–10 (3) United States Mickey Riley PTS 6 Jun 19, 1903 United States Panorama Building, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
47 Win 28–7–9 (3) United States Young Scotty PTS 8 Jun 16, 1903 United States Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.
46 Win 27–7–9 (3) United States Stockings Kelly KO 4 (?) May 22, 1903 United States Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
45 Win 26–7–9 (3) United States Cyclone Johnny Thompson PTS 6 Apr 24, 1903 United States Milwaukee A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
44 Draw 25–7–9 (3) United States Adam Ryan PTS 15 Mar 4, 1903 United States Capital Theater, Little Rock, Arkansas, U.S.
43 Win 25–7–8 (3) United States Sammy Maxwell KO 10 (?) Jan 6, 1903 United States Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
42 Win 24–7–8 (3) United States Christy Williams KO 17 (?) Dec 26, 1902 United States Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
41 Win 23–7–8 (3) United States Billy Mayfield PTS 10 Dec 2, 1902 United States Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
40 Draw 22–7–8 (3) United States Battling Hurley PTS 6 Jun 14, 1902 United States Hammond, Indiana, U.S.
39 Win 22–7–7 (3) United States Pudden Burns PTS 6 May 17, 1902 United States Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
38 Draw 21–7–7 (3) United States Danny McMahon PTS 6 Apr 12, 1902 United States West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
37 Win 21–7–6 (3) United States William Rossler KO 1 (?) Apr 5, 1902 United States Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
36 Win 20–7–6 (3) United States Cyclone Johnny Thompson PTS 6 Mar 21, 1902 United States Wabash A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
35 Win 19–7–6 (3) United States Kid Ryan KO 5 (?) Mar 17, 1902 United States American A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
34 Win 18–7–6 (3) United States Joe Percente PTS 8 Mar 13, 1902 United States Oshkosh, Wisconsin, U.S.
33 Loss 17–7–6 (3) United States Charles Berry PTS 8 Jan 21, 1902 United States Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.
32 Win 17–6–6 (3) United States Frank Colifer KO 5 (?) Jan 13, 1902 United States West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
31 Loss 16–6–6 (3) United States Charles Berry PTS 6 Dec 17, 1901 United States Badger A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
30 Win 16–5–6 (3) United States Mike Walsh KO 6 (6) Dec 16, 1901 United States American A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
29 Draw 15–5–6 (3) United States Joe Percente PTS 6 Dec 2, 1901 United States Milwaukee Boxing Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
28 Loss 15–5–5 (3) United States Eddie Santry PTS 6 Nov 29, 1901 United States Pyramid A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
27 Loss 15–4–5 (3) United States Joe Percente PTS 6 Nov 15, 1901 United States Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
26 NC 15–3–5 (3) United States Billy Heck ND 4 Nov 10, 1901 United States West Pullman, Wisconsin, U.S.
25 Draw 15–3–5 (2) United States Harry Fails PTS 10 May 24, 1901 United States Rhinelander, Wisconsin, U.S.
24 NC 15–3–4 (2) United States Harry Fails ND 6 May 18, 1901 United States Omro, Wisconsin, U.S.
23 Draw 15–3–4 (1) United States Charles Berry PTS 6 May 3, 1901 United States Milwaukee Boxing Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
22 Loss 15–3–3 (1) United States Mickey Riley PTS 6 Apr 19, 1901 United States Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
21 Win 15–2–3 (1) United States Black Griffo KO 3 (?) Mar 17, 1901 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
20 Win 14–2–3 (1) United States Jack Martin PTS 4 Dec 8, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
19 Win 13–2–3 (1) United States Joe Percente DQ 2 (?) Dec 7, 1900 United States Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
18 Draw 12–2–3 (1) United States Danny McMahon PTS 4 Dec 1, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
17 Loss 12–2–2 (1) United States Pete Boyle DQ 4 (?) Dec 1, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
16 Win 12–1–2 (1) United States Ed Burley KO 5 (?) Nov 22, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
15 Win 11–1–2 (1) United States Black Griffo KO 3 (?) Nov 15, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
14 Draw 10–1–2 (1) United States Clarence Class PTS 6 Nov 2, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
13 Win 10–1–1 (1) United States Young Bay PTS 6 Oct 8, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
12 Win 9–1–1 (1) United States Young Griffin PTS 6 Sep 21, 1900 United States Orpheus A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
11 Loss 8–1–1 (1) United States Joe Hedmark PTS 6 Sep 14, 1900 United States Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
10 Win 8–0–1 (1) United States Charles Dougherty KO 1 (?) Aug 30, 1900 United States Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
9 NC 7–0–1 (1) United States Feathers Vernon ND 6 Jul 4, 1900 United States West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
8 Win 7–0–1 United States John Smith KO 2 (?) Jun 1, 1899 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
7 Win 6–0–1 United States Bull Winters KO 1 (?) May 3, 1899 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
6 Win 5–0–1 United States Eddie Penny KO 1 (?) Apr 6, 1899 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
5 Draw 4–0–1 United States Eddie Herman PTS 6 Jan 1, 1899 United States Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
4 Win 4–0 United States Soldier Williams KO 3 (?) May 11, 1898 United States Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S.
3 Win 3–0 United States Freddie Green KO 7 (?) May 10, 1898 United States Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S.
2 Win 2–0 United States Ole Olsen PTS 3 Jun 5, 1897 United States Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
1 Win 1–0 United States Wallace Kid KO 1 (?) Sep 3, 1896 United States Hammond, Indiana, U.S.

Unofficial record[]

Professional record summary hide
172 fights 97 wins 46 losses
By knockout 40 3
By decision 56 39
By disqualification 1 4
Draws 28
No contests 1

Record with the inclusion of newspaper decisions to the win/loss/draw column.

No. Result Record Opponent Type Round Date Location hideNotes
134 Loss 69–33–27 (5) United Kingdom Freddie Welsh NWS 12 Apr 17, 1917 United States Coliseum, Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S. World lightweight title at stake;
(via KO only)
133 Win 69–32–27 (5) United States Pierce Matthews TKO 8 (12) Mar 17, 1917 United States Saint Louis, Missouri, U.S.
132 Loss 68–32–27 (5) United States Jimmy Reagan PTS 10 Nov 5, 1915 United States 20th Century A.C., Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
131 Loss 68–31–27 (5) United States Bobby Waugh PTS 20 Sep 6, 1915 Mexico Plaza de Toros, Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico
130 Win 68–30–27 (5) United States Dale Gardner KO 2 (?) Apr 24, 1915 Cuba Havana, Cuba
129 Win 67–30–27 (5) United States Jimmy Fryer PTS 25 Mar 24, 1915 Cuba Havana, Cuba
128 Win 66–30–27 (5) United States Stewart Donnelly KO 3 (?) Mar 18, 1915 Cuba Havana, Cuba
127 Win 65–30–27 (5) United States Cliff Ford PTS 6 Aug 19, 1913 United States Soo Opera House, Sault Sainte Marie, Michigan, U.S.
126 Loss 64–30–27 (5) United States Ad Wolgast NWS 10 Oct 13, 1913 United States Southside A.A., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
125 Loss 64–29–27 (5) United States Pat Bradley NWS 6 (10) May 3, 1913 United States National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
124 Loss 64–28–27 (5) Canada Gilbert Gallant PTS 12 Apr 29, 1913 United States Arena (Armory A.A.), Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
123 Draw 64–27–27 (5) United States Bay Wood PTS 12 Apr 19, 1913 United States Elm Rink, New Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S.
122 Win 64–27–26 (5) United States Mike Malone NWS 10 Mar 27, 1913 United States Pueblo, Colorado, U.S.
121 Loss 63–27–26 (5) United States Frank Ray Whitney NWS 10 Mar 5, 1913 United States Armory Auditorium, Atlanta, Georgia, U.S. No decision rendered by prior agreement. Whitney won Newspaper Decision
120 Draw 63–26–26 (5) United States Bay Wood PTS 12 Feb 22, 1913 United States Bristol Arena, New Bedford, Massachusetts, U.S.
119 Win 63–26–25 (5) United States Joe Burke NWS 10 Feb 17, 1913 United States Orpheum Theatre, Easton, Pennsylvania, U.S.
118 Win 62–26–25 (5) United States Harry Dillon TKO 10 (10) Feb 11, 1913 United States Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, U.S.
117 Win 61–26–25 (5) United States Jack Sorenson NWS 10 Feb 5, 1913 United States Lakeside Auditorium, Racine, Wisconsin, U.S.
116 Loss 60–26–25 (5) United States Frankie Russell PTS 10 Jan 3, 1913 United States Greenwall Theater, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. Nelson claimed he fought under the belief that without a knockout the bout would be declared a draw or no decision
115 Loss 60–25–25 (5) United States Yankee Schwartz NWS 8 Dec 31, 1912 United States Columbus, Ohio, U.S.
114 Draw 60–24–25 (5) United States Jim Bonner PTS 10 Dec 20, 1912 United States Walker's Hall, Tamaqua, Pennsylvania, U.S.
113 Draw 60–24–24 (5) United States Teddy Maloney NWS 6 Dec 13, 1912 United States Olympia A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
112 Loss 60–24–23 (5) United States Leach Cross NWS 10 Nov 28, 1912 United States 44th Street A.C., New Amsterdam Opera House, New York City, New York, U.S.
111 Win 60–23–23 (5) United States Art Stewart NWS 10 Nov 14, 1912 United States Hammond, Indiana, U.S.
110 Draw 59–23–23 (5) United States Steve Ketchel PTS 15 Sep 2, 1912 United States Saint Joseph, Missouri, U.S.
109 Loss 59–23–22 (5) Canada Mickey MacIntyre NWS 12 Jul 12, 1912 Canada Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
108 Win 59–22–22 (5) United States Andy Bezenah NWS 12 Jul 1, 1912 Canada Auditorium Rink, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
107 Draw 58–22–22 (5) United States Sammy Trott PTS 15 Mar 1, 1912 United States Dayton, Ohio, U.S.
106 Draw 58–22–21 (5) Japan Young Togo PTS 6 Feb 26, 1912 United States Athletic Club, Fort Smith, Arkansas, U.S.
105 Loss 58–22–20 (5) United States Tommy O'Rourke NWS 10 Jan 9, 1912 United States Springfield, Missouri, U.S.
104 Win 58–21–20 (5) United States Jack Redmond PTS 20 Dec 31, 1911 United States West Side A.C., Gretna, Louisiana, U.S.
103 Loss 57–21–20 (5) United States One Round Hogan NWS 10 Dec 22, 1911 United States Madison A.C., New York City, New York, U.S.
102 Win 57–20–20 (5) United States Willie Howard NWS 10 Dec 18, 1911 United States Irving A.C., Brooklyn, New York City, New York, U.S.
101 Win 56–20–20 (5) Canada Bobby Wilson NWS 10 Dec 15, 1911 United States Oneida County A.C., Utica, New York, U.S.
100 Draw 55–20–20 (5) United States Andy Bezenah NWS 10 Dec 4, 1911 United States Jeffersonville, Indiana, U.S.
99 Win 55–20–19 (5) United States Joseph Spero KO 6 (20) Nov 30, 1911 Canada Agnes Street Theatre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
98 Draw 54–20–19 (5) France Louis De Ponthieu NWS 10 Nov 25, 1911 United States Convention Hall, Buffalo, New York, U.S.
97 Win 54–20–18 (5) United States Tommy Moore TKO 9 (10) Nov 10, 1911 United States Convention Hall, Buffalo, New York, U.S.
96 Draw 53–20–18 (5) United States Frank Loughrey NWS 10 Nov 6, 1911 United States Grogan A.C., Watervliet, New York, U.S.
95 Win 53–20–17 (5) United States Monte Dale PTS 15 Oct 25, 1911 United States Mechanics Hall, Manchester, New Hampshire, U.S.
94 Loss 52–20–17 (5) United States George Alger NWS 6 Oct 19, 1911 United States Augusta, Maine, U.S.
93 Loss 52–19–17 (5) German Empire Philadelphia Pal Moore PTS 12 Oct 17, 1911 United States Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
92 Win 52–18–17 (5) United States Willie Beecher NWS 10 Oct 11, 1911 United States Madison Square Garden, New York City, New York, U.S.
91 Loss 51–18–17 (5) United States Milburn Saylor PTS 12 Oct 3, 1911 United States Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
90 Win 51–17–17 (5) United States Billy Nixon TKO 10 (12) Sep 19, 1911 United States Armory A.A., Boston, Massachusetts, U.S.
89 Win 50–17–17 (5) United States Tommy Gaffney TKO 5 (10) Aug 4, 1911 United States Opera House, Medford, Oregon, U.S.
88 Draw 49–17–17 (5) Canada Percy Cove PTS 6 Jul 4, 1911 United States Fairgrounds, Bellingham, Washington, U.S.
87 Loss 49–17–16 (5) United Kingdom Owen Moran KO 11 (20) Nov 26, 1910 United States Blot's Arena, San Francisco, California, U.S.
86 Draw 49–16–16 (5) United States Anton LaGrave PTS 15 Oct 31, 1910 United States Dreamland Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
85 Win 49–16–15 (5) United States Monte Dale TKO 3 (10) Oct 10, 1910 United States Hippodrome, Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
84 Loss 48–16–15 (5) United States Ad Wolgast TKO 40 (45) Feb 22, 1910 United States Arena, Point Richmond, California, U.S. Lost world lightweight title
83 Win 48–15–15 (5) United States Eddie Lang TKO 8 (8) Jan 21, 1910 United States Memphis A.C., Memphis, Tennessee, U.S. Retained world lightweight title
82 Loss 47–15–15 (5) United States Ad Wolgast NWS 10 Jul 13, 1909 United States Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
81 Win 47–14–15 (5) United States Jack Clifford TKO 5 (15) Jun 22, 1909 United States Auditorium, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, U.S.
80 Win 46–14–15 (5) United States Dick Hyland KO 23 (45) May 29, 1909 United States Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S. Retained world lightweight title
79 Win 45–14–15 (5) United States Joe Gans KO 21 (45) Sep 9, 1908 United States Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S. Retained world lightweight title
78 Win 44–14–15 (5) United States Joe Gans KO 17 (45) Jul 4, 1908 United States Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S. Won world lightweight title
77 Draw 43–14–15 (5) United States Abe Attell PTS 15 Mar 31, 1908 United States Coliseum, San Francisco, California, U.S.
76 Draw 43–14–14 (5) United States Jimmy Britt NWS 10 Mar 3, 1908 United States Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
75 Loss 43–14–13 (5) German Empire Rudy Unholz NWS 10 Feb 4, 1908 United States Naud Junction Pavilion, Los Angeles, California, U.S.
74 Win 43–13–13 (5) United States Jack Clifford KO 5 (20) Jan 13, 1908 United States Opera House, Ogden, Utah, U.S.
73 Loss 42–13–13 (5) United States Jimmy Britt PTS 20 Jul 31, 1907 United States Auditorium Rink, San Francisco, California, U.S. Lost world 'white' lightweight title
72 Loss 42–12–13 (5) United States Joe Gans DQ 42 (?) Sep 3, 1906 United States Casino Amphitheatre, Goldfield, Nevada, U.S. For world lightweight title
71 Win 42–11–13 (5) United States Terry McGovern NWS 6 Mar 14, 1906 United States National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
70 Win 41–11–13 (5) United States Jimmy Britt KO 18 (20) Sep 9, 1905 United States Mission Street Arena, Colma, California, U.S. Won world 'white' lightweight title
69 Win 40–11–13 (5) United States Jack O'Neil NWS 6 Jun 6, 1905 United States National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
68 Draw 39–11–13 (5) United States Kid Sullivan PTS 6 Jun 2, 1905 United States Eureka A.C., Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.
67 Loss 39–11–12 (5) United States Abe Attell NWS 6 May 22, 1905 United States National A.C., Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.
66 Win 39–10–12 (5) United States Young Corbett II TKO 9 (20) Feb 28, 1905 United States Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
65 Loss 38–10–12 (5) United States Jimmy Britt PTS 20 Dec 20, 1904 United States Mechanic's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S. For vacant world 'white' lightweight title
64 Win 38–9–12 (5) United States Young Corbett II TKO 10 (20) Nov 29, 1904 United States Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
63 Win 37–9–12 (5) United States Aurelio Herrera PTS 20 Sep 5, 1904 United States Montana A.C., Butte, Montana, U.S.
62 Win 36–9–12 (5) United States Eddie Hanlon TKO 19 (20) Jul 29, 1904 United States Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
61 Win 35–9–12 (5) Republic of Ireland Martin Canole KO 18 (20) May 20, 1904 United States Woodward's Pavilion, San Francisco, California, U.S.
60 Win 34–9–12 (5) United States Joe Spider Welsh TKO 16 (20) Apr 5, 1904 United States Salt Palace, Salt Lake City, Utah, U.S.
59 Win 33–9–12 (5) United States Jack O'Neil PTS 6 Feb 5, 1904 United States Badger A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
58 Win 32–9–12 (5) United States Art Simms KO 3 (6) Jan 16, 1904 United States Milwaukee A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
57 Win 31–9–12 (5) United States Clarence English PTS 15 Dec 28, 1903 United States Saint Joseph, Missouri, U.S.
56 Win 30–9–12 (5) United States George Memsic PTS 6 Nov 10, 1903 United States Badger A.C., Milwaukee, U.S.
55 Loss 29–9–12 (5) United States Charles Neary PTS 6 Oct 16, 1903 United States Badger A.C., Milwaukee, U.S.
54 NC 29–8–12 (5) United States Daredevil Tildon NC 2 (?) Sep 3, 1903 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S. Police stopped the fight
53 Loss 29–8–12 (4) United States Eddie Sterns KO 9 (?) Aug 26, 1903 United States Michigan City, Indiana, U.S.
52 Draw 29–7–12 (4) United States Mickey Riley PTS 15 Jul 24, 1903 United States Hurley, Wisconsin, U.S.
51 NC 29–7–11 (4) United States Mickey Riley NC 11 (?) Jul 15, 1903 United States Ashland, Wisconsin, U.S. Police stopped the fight
50 Draw 29–7–11 (3) United States Clarence English PTS 15 Jun 27, 1903 United States Kansas City, Missouri, U.S.
49 Win 29–7–10 (3) United States Larry McDonald KO 4 (?) Jun 20, 1903 United States Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
48 Draw 28–7–10 (3) United States Mickey Riley PTS 6 Jun 19, 1903 United States Panorama Building, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
47 Win 28–7–9 (3) United States Young Scotty PTS 8 Jun 16, 1903 United States Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.
46 Win 27–7–9 (3) United States Stockings Kelly KO 4 (?) May 22, 1903 United States Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
45 Win 26–7–9 (3) United States Cyclone Johnny Thompson PTS 6 Apr 24, 1903 United States Milwaukee A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
44 Draw 25–7–9 (3) United States Adam Ryan PTS 15 Mar 4, 1903 United States Capital Theater, Little Rock, Arkansas, U.S.
43 Win 25–7–8 (3) United States Sammy Maxwell KO 10 (?) Jan 6, 1903 United States Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
42 Win 24–7–8 (3) United States Christy Williams KO 17 (?) Dec 26, 1902 United States Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
41 Win 23–7–8 (3) United States Billy Mayfield PTS 10 Dec 2, 1902 United States Hot Springs, Arkansas, U.S.
40 Draw 22–7–8 (3) United States Battling Hurley PTS 6 Jun 14, 1902 United States Hammond, Indiana, U.S.
39 Win 22–7–7 (3) United States Pudden Burns PTS 6 May 17, 1902 United States Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
38 Draw 21–7–7 (3) United States Danny McMahon PTS 6 Apr 12, 1902 United States West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
37 Win 21–7–6 (3) United States William Rossler KO 1 (?) Apr 5, 1902 United States Harvey, Illinois, U.S.
36 Win 20–7–6 (3) United States Cyclone Johnny Thompson PTS 6 Mar 21, 1902 United States Wabash A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
35 Win 19–7–6 (3) United States Kid Ryan KO 5 (?) Mar 17, 1902 United States American A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
34 Win 18–7–6 (3) United States Joe Percente PTS 8 Mar 13, 1902 United States Oshkosh, Wisconsin, U.S.
33 Loss 17–7–6 (3) United States Charles Berry PTS 8 Jan 21, 1902 United States Fond du Lac, Wisconsin, U.S.
32 Win 17–6–6 (3) United States Frank Colifer KO 5 (?) Jan 13, 1902 United States West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
31 Loss 16–6–6 (3) United States Charles Berry PTS 6 Dec 17, 1901 United States Badger A.C., Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
30 Win 16–5–6 (3) United States Mike Walsh KO 6 (6) Dec 16, 1901 United States American A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
29 Draw 15–5–6 (3) United States Joe Percente PTS 6 Dec 2, 1901 United States Milwaukee Boxing Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
28 Loss 15–5–5 (3) United States Eddie Santry PTS 6 Nov 29, 1901 United States Pyramid A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
27 Loss 15–4–5 (3) United States Joe Percente PTS 6 Nov 15, 1901 United States Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
26 NC 15–3–5 (3) United States Billy Heck ND 4 Nov 10, 1901 United States West Pullman, Wisconsin, U.S.
25 Draw 15–3–5 (2) United States Harry Fails PTS 10 May 24, 1901 United States Rhinelander, Wisconsin, U.S.
24 NC 15–3–4 (2) United States Harry Fails ND 6 May 18, 1901 United States Omro, Wisconsin, U.S.
23 Draw 15–3–4 (1) United States Charles Berry PTS 6 May 3, 1901 United States Milwaukee Boxing Club, Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
22 Loss 15–3–3 (1) United States Mickey Riley PTS 6 Apr 19, 1901 United States Milwaukee, Wisconsin, U.S.
21 Win 15–2–3 (1) United States Black Griffo KO 3 (?) Mar 17, 1901 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
20 Win 14–2–3 (1) United States Jack Martin PTS 4 Dec 8, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
19 Win 13–2–3 (1) United States Joe Percente DQ 2 (?) Dec 7, 1900 United States Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
18 Draw 12–2–3 (1) United States Danny McMahon PTS 4 Dec 1, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
17 Loss 12–2–2 (1) United States Pete Boyle DQ 4 (?) Dec 1, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
16 Win 12–1–2 (1) United States Ed Burley KO 5 (?) Nov 22, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
15 Win 11–1–2 (1) United States Black Griffo KO 3 (?) Nov 15, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
14 Draw 10–1–2 (1) United States Clarence Class PTS 6 Nov 2, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
13 Win 10–1–1 (1) United States Young Bay PTS 6 Oct 8, 1900 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
12 Win 9–1–1 (1) United States Young Griffin PTS 6 Sep 21, 1900 United States Orpheus A.C., Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
11 Loss 8–1–1 (1) United States Joe Hedmark PTS 6 Sep 14, 1900 United States Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
10 Win 8–0–1 (1) United States Charles Dougherty KO 1 (?) Aug 30, 1900 United States Star Theatre, Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
9 NC 7–0–1 (1) United States Feathers Vernon ND 6 Jul 4, 1900 United States West Pullman, Illinois, U.S.
8 Win 7–0–1 United States John Smith KO 2 (?) Jun 1, 1899 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
7 Win 6–0–1 United States Bull Winters KO 1 (?) May 3, 1899 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
6 Win 5–0–1 United States Eddie Penny KO 1 (?) Apr 6, 1899 United States Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
5 Draw 4–0–1 United States Eddie Herman PTS 6 Jan 1, 1899 United States Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
4 Win 4–0 United States Soldier Williams KO 3 (?) May 11, 1898 United States Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S.
3 Win 3–0 United States Freddie Green KO 7 (?) May 10, 1898 United States Sioux Falls, South Dakota, U.S.
2 Win 2–0 United States Ole Olsen PTS 3 Jun 5, 1897 United States Hegewisch, Illinois, U.S.
1 Win 1–0 United States Wallace Kid KO 1 (?) Sep 3, 1896 United States Hammond, Indiana, U.S.

See also[]

References[]

  1. ^ "The wonders of the Yellowstone National Park". 1911.
  2. ^ "She was the "Greatest woman cartoonist, caricaturist and 'kidder' in the world" — and she could fight a bobcat". 15 October 2017.
  3. ^ http://looking-for-mabel.webs.com/fayking.htm
  4. ^ Roberts, James and Alexander Skutt (1997). The Boxing Register, 1st ed. Ithaca, New York: McBooks Press. p. 128. ISBN 0-935526-23-4.
  5. ^ Baker, Mark Allen (2016). Battling Nelson, The Durable Dane: World Lightweight Champion 1882–1954. Jefferson, North Carolina: McFarland and Company, Inc. p. 253. ISBN 978-1-4766-6372-2.
  6. ^ Roberts, James and Alexander Skutt (1997). The Boxing Register, 1st ed. Ithaca, New York: McBooks Press. p. 129. ISBN 0-935526-23-4.
  7. ^ https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/8998

External links[]

Achievements
Preceded by
Joe Gans
World Lightweight Champion
July 4, 1908 – February 22, 1910
Succeeded by
Ad Wolgast
Titles in pretence
Preceded by
Jimmy Britt
World White Lightweight Champion
September 9, 1905 – July 31, 1907
Succeeded by
Jimmy Britt
Retrieved from ""