Introduction
Jeffries versus Dempsey. A variant of Untitled story (“John L. Sullivan knocked out Ryan…”)
Summary
In “Jeffries Versus Dempsey,” Robert E. Howard imagines a fierce and evenly matched boxing bout between two legendary heavyweights, Jim Jeffries and Jack Dempsey, incorporating real-life boxing techniques and historic fighters’ knockouts into the narrative. The fight is described in detailed rounds, showcasing the fighters’ strategic maneuvers, powerful punches, and resilience.
The bout begins with both fighters cautiously engaging, with Dempsey initially taking the upper hand with his speed and aggression, landing a series of punches that stagger Jeffries. However, Jeffries quickly recovers, demonstrating his blocking skills and counterattacks. As the rounds progress, the match becomes more intense, with both fighters landing significant blows, showcasing their strength and determination. Despite Dempsey’s speed and agility, Jeffries’ powerful defense and strategic punches allow him to solve Dempsey’s attack pattern.
In the pivotal fourth round, the fight reaches its climax. Both fighters exchange devastating punches, with Dempsey landing a series of blows that stagger Jeffries. However, Jeffries responds with his own powerful punches, ultimately knocking Dempsey down multiple times. The round ends dramatically with both fighters landing simultaneous punches that send them to the mat. Jeffries recovers quicker, ultimately winning the match by count-out as Dempsey fails to beat the ten-count despite his efforts to continue fighting.
Characters
- Jim Jeffries: A legendary heavyweight boxer, known for his blocking defense, powerful punches, and resilience, ultimately winning the imagined bout against Dempsey.
- Jack Dempsey: A legendary heavyweight boxer, characterized by his speed, aggression, and ability to land significant punches, ultimately losing the bout to Jeffries in a dramatic fourth round.
- Referee: The official overseeing the bout, counting out Dempsey in the final round and declaring Jeffries the winner.
Published in:
- ROBERT E. HOWARD FOUNDATION NEWSLETTER V2N1, Robert E. Howard Foundation, Spring 2008 (typescript)
- THE COLLECTED BOXING FICTION OF ROBERT E. HOWARD: FISTS OF IRON, REH Foundation Press, June 2013