Martin, Dan

Daniel Martin

Martin was an English bare-knuckled fighter in the 1810s during the era of "Broughton's Rules." Established in 1743 by Jack Broughton, considered the father of English boxing, the Rules stated that wrestling moves about the waist were allowed, but a fighter could not hit an opponent once he was down. In fact, knockdowns marked the division of rounds as the downed fighter had 30 seconds to return to the center of the ring or he would lose. If the fighter, with the help of his handlers, made it to the center, the fights resumed in what was considered a new round. In this way, fights were recorded according to the number of rounds and amount of time. "Broughton's Rules" were replaced in 1838 by the Pugilistic Society's "London Prize Ring Rules."

Birth and Death Dates:
unknown

Career Highlights:
Martin was an active early pugilist in the 1810s and fought some very good opponents. On November 16, 1812, he faced John Lancaster for the prize of 10 English pounds, but was defeated in 40 minutes. The following April, he fought a boxer named Targett at White Street Hill and emerged the winner after 56 minutes. He then had a rematch with Lancaster in October 1813 in a fight that lasted an incredible 195 rounds and took 3 hours and 30 minutes! Martin won the bout and the prize of 20 guineas. His final recorded fight took place on March 29, 1814 when he was beaten by Bill Nosworthy in 36 minutes for the prize of 25 guineas.

Origin:
England

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