Author Stayton Bonner discusses the history and resurgence of bare-knuckle boxing, focusing on undefeated champion Bobby Gunn. He delves into the sport's underground world, its ancient code of honor, and the popularity of modern bare-knuckle fights. The podcast explores the cultural significance of fighting, Bobby Gunn's life as an Irish Traveler fighter, and the brutal realities of the sport. The narrative also touches on historical honor culture and the rise of Bobby Gunn in the underground fighting scene.
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Quick takeaways
Bare-knuckle boxing's resurgence as a legitimate and popular combat sport globally.
Bobby Gunn's transition from underground to professional boxing, showcasing his undefeated record.
The honor-based tradition of rough and tumble fights deeply rooted in Irish traveler culture.
Deep dives
Bare Knuckle Boxing Resurgence
Bare knuckle boxing has resurged as the fastest growing combat sport globally with the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship leading the way. David Feldman initiated the resurgence after witnessing the underground fights and seeing its potential. Starting with events in Wyoming, the championship is now valued at $312 million with plans for 48 events this year.
Bobby Gunn's Fighting Journey
Bobby Gunn, a living legend with a bare knuckle fighting record of 73 and 0, built his reputation through underground fights while juggling a day job in asphalt. Gunn transitioned to professional boxing after underground fame, showcasing his skills against notable opponents like Thomas Adamac and Roy Jones Jr.
Rough and Tumble Tradition
Bobby Gunn's training in rough and tumble reflects an honor-based tradition deeply rooted in the Irish traveler culture. Rough and tumble fights have no rules, where eye gouging, biting, and extreme tactics are employed. Gunn's childhood training with leather belts and hitting by his father prepared him for these intense matches.
Modern Bare Knuckle Evolution
Bare knuckle boxing has evolved from its secretive underground roots to a legitimate sport with sanctioned events across the United States and the world. Led by the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, the sport has gained popularity and financial success, demonstrating its potential for mainstream recognition.
Bobby Gunn's Dual Life
Bobby Gunn's dual life as a bare knuckle fighter and asphalt worker epitomizes the balance between his underground fighting fame and day job responsibilities. Despite the intensity of his fighting career, Gunn valued his family and integrated his fighting prowess with his roles as a loving husband and father.
Have you ever noticed the guy in a fighting stance on the Art of Manliness logo? That’s not just some random symbol; it’s an actual dude: John L. Sullivan, the greatest bare-knuckle boxer of the 19th century.
While most people think bare-knuckle boxing came to an end during Sullivan’s era, in fact, it never entirely went away. In his new book, Bare Knuckle: Bobby Gunn, 73–0 Undefeated. A Dad. A Dream. A Fight Like You’ve Never Seen, Stayton Bonner charts bare-knuckle boxing’s rise, fall, and resurgence, as well as the improbable story of its modern chapter’s winningest champion. Today on the show, Stayton describes bare-knuckle boxing’s incredible popularity a century ago, and why gloved boxing took its place while bare-knuckle got pushed into a shadowy, illicit underground. Stayton takes us into that secret circuit which still exists today, revealing the dark, sweaty basements and bars where modern bare-knuckle fights take place and the ancient code of honor that structures them. And Stayton introduces us to a dominant figure in that world, Bobby Gunn, an undefeated bare-knuckle fighter who combines a love of faith, family, and fighting and has helped turn bare-knuckle boxing into what is now the world’s fastest-growing combat sport.