May 11, 1900

In an effort to regain the heavyweight boxing title, James J. Corbett, known as Gentleman Jim, was knocked out cold by James J. Jeffries in the 23rd round. Corbett, who was born in San Francisco, had won the title from John L. Sullivan in 1892 then lost it to the Cornish fighter Bob Fitzsimmons. Jeffries of Los Angeles defeated Fitzsimmons, thus setting the stage for what many consider to be Corbett’s finest fight. The fight took place in Coney Island. By the 20th round, Jeffries did not seem able to keep up with the light-footed Corbett. However, in an unlucky slip-up Corbett bounced off the ropes and Jeffries took him down with a short right hand. Corbett never regained the title.