Host Michael Foley tells the story of boxer John L. Sullivan, America's first celebrity athlete, and gives historical context for boxing in the 1880's.
Sullivan meets Nellie Bly and Bat Masterson as he prepares for the biggest fight of his career.
Sullivan fights a series of new challengers, as well as the law, as his personal life falls apart.
John L Sullivan fights Paddy Ryan for the first world championship, and the President of the United States is assassinated.
John L Sullivan becomes a sensation as he goes on tour, overcoming the obstacles of being an Irish-American in the 19th century.
Up-and-coming boxer John L Sullivan sets out to make a name for himself with a May 1881 fight, as sports journalism first begins to take off.