Hart, Sig

Sigmund Hart

Hart, a top bantamweight, claimed the world title in 1899 but was not recognized as the champion.

Birth and Death Dates:
b. February 29, 1872 - d. August 5, 1963

Career Highlights:
In the late 1890s, Hart was a contender for the bantamweight title. In 1897, he faced champ Jimmy Barry in a three-round non-title exhibition fight (Barry's next fight was against Walter Croot for the title; Croot died of brain injuries caused by the fight). Two years later, Hart fought future world champ Harry Harris twice, losing a 15-round decision in July and getting knocked out in the sixth-round in August. In September 1899, Jimmy Barry vacated the title and Hart claimed it after defeating Australian Billy Murphy in 15-rounds; Hart's claim was not recognized as Terry McGovern also claimed the crown (McGovern was recognized as champion but vacated the title the following year). Hart never did fight for the title and after retiring, he moved on to a great career as a manager of 300 fighters, including three heavyweight champions. Hart discovered and managed Jack Johnson.

Origin:
unknown

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