Boxing in 1800

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Though John Jackson retired in 1795 after his decisive victory over Daniel Mendoza at Hornchurch in Essex, he was to remain a fixture in Society until his death in 1845.

It became quite popular for members of the Ton to be taught the Sweet Science by Jackson in the salon at 13 Bond Street, which was located on the edge of Vauxhall Gardens.

Among Jackson's students was Byron, whose relationship with the former champion extended well beyond that of student and teacher.

The present champion of the day was Jem Belcher, grandson of the great Jack Slack, the fourth boxer to become the heavyweight champion of England. He was described by some as being more handsome than Byron, and was credited for the invention of the Belcher tie or Ascot. He gained the name "Napoleon of the Ring" and he was known for his agility and speed in hitting.

Matches of the time were long, brutal affairs lasting several rounds. The fighting style of the time was well-suited to these marathon-like matches, in that the fighter's hands were held before their bodies in a more natural fashion that allowed the fighter to conserve his energy. Such a style did not allow many combinations, and fewer punches were thrown. It also meant that the power generated was mostly from the arms and shoulders.

Gradually, as the matches grew shorter, the stances evolved, allowing the fighter to throw more punches and combinations. The hands had to move back to the head to protect it as the fighters attacked not only from face-on, but the side as well.