JOHN GULLY, Esq., M.R.
From a Miniature by Hudson, 1815.
Gully, by the science and game he displayed, had become a distinguished favourite with the Fancy in general. His knowledge of the art of boxing was considered complete, and his courage an able second to his judgment. His supporters were numerous, and his fame stood so high, that upwards of two years elapsed, from the time of his battle with the Chicken, October 8, 1805, before any one had the temerity to call on him to defend his title to the championship. At length he entered the lists with the formidable and burly Bob Gregson, a boxer, who had been picked out by some of his friends in Lancashire, as likely to lower the crest of the champion. Gregson’s size was considerably in his favour, he being nearly six feet two inches high, of prodigious strength, and had signalised himself in several pugilistic contests in that part of the country; but, notwithstanding such striking advantages, his pretensions were considered on the score of strength rather than of science. Gregson’s game was unquestionable, and the amateurs wishing to see him enter the lists with so distinguished a boxer as Gully, a subscription was immediately entered into for that purpose.
On the 14th October, 1807, the contest took place in a valley, called Six Mile Bottom, on the Newmarket Road, on the spot where, in later days, the writer witnessed the defeat of Jemmy Massey, of Manchester, and Edwards, of Cheltenham. For miles round this part of the country the bustle commenced at an early hour, groups of people thronging from every direction, to witness the battle. Between nine and ten Gully and Gregson entered the ring, both in excellent spirits and good condition. The former was seconded by Cribb, Cropley acting as bottle holder. Richmond was Gregson’s mentor, and Harry Lee was his bottle holder. Bill Warr and John Jackson were also in the ring; “lest,” says the report, “occasion might demand their services.” On setting-to the odds were six to four in favour of Gully.
The combatants shook hands and bowed to the spectators, as if at a sparring benefit; and at a few minutes after ten o’clock, threw themselves into position for
THE FIGHT.[[98]]
Round 1.—The combatants fixed each other with a steady eye; a pause; some excellent sparring. Gully put in a well-aimed blow in his opponent’s face. Gregson returned on the side of the head. They closed and both fell.
2.—Gully now appeared conscious of his opponent’s strength, was very careful, and showed some excellent science; he put in another severe hit in Gregson’s face, blood ran profusely, and Gregson fell. (Odds rose 100 to 20 on Gully.)
6.—In every round some excellent hits were exchanged, and no advantage could be claimed.
7.—After some neat sparring, Gregson broke through his adversary’s guard, and put in a straight forward blow on his right eye. This drew blood; the eye swelled and nearly closed; Gully fell and lay quite stunned for three seconds. Among Gully’s friends the greatest anxiety remained for some moments, and the odds fell five to one.