Daniel Mendoza, an English boxing champion, changed the sport by approaching it with a scientific mindset and pioneering defensive techniques, in the face of antisemitism.
Mendoza got serious about boxing in his early twenties. Despite his desire to become an honest biscuit-maker, he kept getting into fights. And the fights kept getting bigger. By 1786, Mendoza had a 3-1 record on the London circuit.Boxing back then was a different sport. It was fought bare-knuckled, usually outside, on a makeshift stage. There were no round limits, so matches ended by knockout or forfeit. Wealthy aristocrats often acted as matchmakers.
Mendoza earned 1,000 pounds for that fight, equivalent to more than $200,000 today, “wealth far beyond what I ever expected to be a master of,”. But, like many athletes in the centuries to come, Mendoza blew his money. He dressed lavishly, gambled, racked up debts and invested in lousy business ventures.That’s not to say he never made a good investment. In 1787, Mendoza founded a boxing academy to teach Jews self-defense.
Mendoza lost his title in 1795. He was only 30, but he retired from the ring. To make a living, he took to the stage, touring Britain and reenacting his fights. But no matter how much he made, he was always in debt. He no longer dodged punches but creditors. He did several stints in debtors’ prison.
Indonesia Berita Terbaru, Indonesia Berita utama
Similar News:Anda juga dapat membaca berita serupa dengan ini yang kami kumpulkan dari sumber berita lain.
Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur starts at sundown SundaySunday at sundown marks the holiest day on the Jewish calendar - Yom Kippur or the Day of Atonement.
Baca lebih lajut »
N.J. woman wins court fight over viral video urging others to help her get Jewish divorceThe First Amendment case involving an Orthodox Jewish woman speaking out to obtain a 'get,' or a Jewish contract of divorce, is the first of its kind, her attorney said.
Baca lebih lajut »
Jewish Group Slams Canadian Parliament for Honoring Nazi During Zelensky VisitThe Canadian parliament gave a standing ovation during President Volodymyr Zelensky's visit Friday to a Ukrainian who served in a Nazi unit.
Baca lebih lajut »
Yom Kippur, holiest holiday of Jewish year, begin Sunday: What to knowTranslated as 'day of atonement,' Yom Kippur marks a time for fasting and prayer.
Baca lebih lajut »
During Jewish High Holidays, rabbis bring message of forgiveness to those behind barsThe visit to Terminal Island federal correctional institution in San Pedro was one of several by rabbis at prisons nationwide, hoping to bring the message of Yom Kippur — a day of atonement and sel…
Baca lebih lajut »