Historical Dictionary of Boxing [Hardcover]

The main dictionary portion of this book covers famous matches, countries, organizations, venues, weight classes, terminology, and other assorted topics related to boxing. Biographical entries, however, represent the largest category. Of necessity, sportswriter Grasso was highly selective as to whom he included; however, most of the notable figures in boxing's colorful history will be found here, including trainers and promoters. In keeping with the publisher's 'Historical Dictionary' series format, a chronology, introductory overview, and bibliography are included. Thirteen appendixes supply additional information, including 'Nicknames and Ring Names,' 'Revised London Prize Ring Rules,' and 'Boxing Movies.'. . . .Grasso's handy print volume is valuable for its excellent overview. It should join the most current edition of The Boxing Register by James Roberts and Alexander Skutt, and Boxing: A Worldwide Record of Bouts and Boxers, by Herbert Goldman on the shelves of libraries with history of boxing collections. Summing Up: Recommended. Lower-division undergraduates and above; general readers.Boxing is one of the worlds oldest sports, dating back at least as far the ancient Greeks. Although its popularity has ebbed in recent years, its long history provides fertile ground for a reference source such as this one. Similar to other works in the Historical Dictionary series, this one-volume source provides brief entries on topics throughout the history of the sport. More than half of the entries are for people primarily boxers but also promoters, trainers, and media personnel. Other entries cover boxing terminology, descriptions of weight classes, and details of notable matches. The time period covered by the book ranges primarily from the late nineteenth century through 2012. The lengthy introduction provides a strong overview of the sport, and a chronology highlights key events from throughout its history. Appendixes cover topics such as the various rules of the sporl“b