Leisure Kicks - The essencial sport and leisure guide

In Ancient Greek times, it was believed that hand-to-hand battles were contested by the Gods on Mount Olympus. Fighting was even one of the sports competed in the original Ancient Olympic Games. However, fighting in ancient times was often a fight to the death, and eventually it was abolished in the 1st century for brutality.Boxing was eventually revived in London in the 17th century, as a barenuckle fighting style that took on some traits of wrestling. It continued to be more of a spectacle than a sport until the 19th century, when due to controversy surrounding professional prize-fighting, the safer, scientific style became popular in schools, universities and the armed forces. The Amateur Boxing Association was founded in 1880 and organised the first championships with four weight classes in 1881. Boxing made its debut at the Olympic Games in 1904, computer scoring was introduced in 1992, and London 2012 marked the first appearance of female boxers.

Boxing at the London 2012 Olympics showed a depth of talent throughout Britain with Luke Campbell and Antony Joshua scoring golds and Nicola Adams becoming the first female Olympic boxing champion. In fact, Britain topped the medal table! 

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American Troops sailing from France enjoy a boxing match (1919)
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