Jack Johnson African American Heavyweight Boxing Fight Photo Real Photo Postcard

Boxing, as depicted in this scene, gained immense popularity as a spectator sport in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The image of a crowded arena, with a referee overseeing two fighters within roped bounds, signifies the widespread adoption of standardized rules, most notably the Marquess of Queensberry Rules from 1867, which mandated gloves and rounds. This era saw boxing transition from often unregulated, bare-knuckle brawling to a more organized, mainstream entertainment form, drawing large, enthusiastic crowds to dedicated venues.