Episode Details

In this episode of pplpod, we step into the ring with James J. Corbett, the legendary World Heavyweight Champion who revolutionized boxing history. Known to the world as "Gentleman Jim," Corbett transformed pugilism from a brutal test of strength into a "scientific" sport, prioritizing technique, footwork, and rigorous training regimens over brute force.

Join us as we recount Corbett’s rise from a San Francisco bank clerk to the man who ended the reign of John L. Sullivan in 1892, establishing the lineal championship. We break down his most famous bouts, including the 61-round marathon against Peter Jackson and his devastating loss to Bob Fitzsimmons—a fight captured in one of the earliest feature-length motion pictures.

Beyond the ropes, we explore Corbett's life as a stage and film actor, his status as one of sports' first sex symbols, and his valiant late-career attempts to reclaim the title from James J. Jeffries. Tune in to learn how this International Boxing Hall of Fame inductee set the standard for the modern athlete.