Fitzsimmons wins third world boxing title

By winning the light-heavyweight championship, Timaru boxer Bob Fitzsimmons became the first man ever to be world boxing champion in three different weight divisions. He also became one of New Zealand’s first sporting heroes.

Fitzsimmons arrived in New Zealand with his family from Cornwall as a 10-year-old. Timaru became home and it was here that Bob learned to box. Working his father’s blacksmith’s forge developed the powerful arms and shoulders which made him a devastating puncher. His upper body formed a marked contrast to his spindly legs.

Fitzsimmons arrived in America in 1890. The following year he fought Jack Dempsey (not to be confused with the later heavyweight champion of the same name) for the world middleweight championship in New Orleans. Fitzsimmons caused an upset by knocking the champion out in the 13th round.

In 1897 (and by now a US citizen) Fitzsimmons won the world heavyweight crown when he knocked out James J. Corbett at Carson City, Nevada. This was the first fight to be filmed.

In 1903 the 40-year-old Fitzsimmons completed his hat-trick of titles when he defeated George Gardner over 20 rounds in San Francisco for the light-heavyweight crown. After losing this title to ‘Philadelphia Jack O’Brien’ (J.F. Hagen) in 1905, he continued to fight intermittently until 1914, when he was over 50. In all he won 40 fights, drew 13 and lost 9.

During a return visit to New Zealand in 1908 Fitzsimmons was treated like royalty, especially in Timaru. To supplement his boxing career he appeared in vaudeville shows. His speaking voice was high and penetrating, and he never forgot his lines. After his retirement he fought exhibition bouts against his son, Robert. In 1916–17 he and his fourth wife, Temo, worked as travelling evangelists.

Fitzsimmons died of pneumonia in Chicago on 22 October 1917, aged 54. He was inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame in 1995.

Image: Bob Fitzsimmons (DNZB - Te Ara Biographies)