Youssop the Jew

A bare-knuckled English fighter in the 1800s, Youssop fought in the era of "Broughton's Rules." Established in 1743 by Jack Broughton, considered the father of English boxing, the Rules stated that wrestling moves about the waist were allowed, but a fighter could not hit an opponent once he was down. In fact, knockdowns marked the division of rounds as the downed fighter had 30 seconds to return to the center of the ring or he would lose. If the fighter, with the help of his handlers, made it to the center, the fights resumed in what was considered a new round. In this way, fights were recorded according to the number of rounds and amount of time. "Broughton's Rules" were replaced in 1838 by the Pugilistic Society's "London Prize Ring Rules."

Birth and Death Dates:
unknown

Career Highlights:
On May 21, 1805, Youssop fought Hall of Famer Bill Richmond, a former slave, in Blackheath, England. The bout, which was for the prize of 10 guineas, lasted six rounds with Youssop giving in first.

Origin:
England