A pugilist nicknamed 'The Manassa Mauler' was in his prime a little over a century ago, a man whom ranks in history as a pioneer for boxing and evolving the game entirely.
The rolling hips of this big man inspired the Philly Shell defense (when working from an open guard) which resembles a lot of what Cus taught Mike, and led an influence of the modern era fighters.
Dempsey was an absolute legend, and he was a technical brawler in an age of the 'strong man' fighter.
Guys like Willard and Sharkey tested Dempsey as a warrior, and to play dirty with a masterclass pugilist is asking for problems.
I loved Dempsey because when he'd get hit too low or elbowed, he would just give it right back! He was a warrior in an age of fearlessness, when guys like Jack Johnson, Marciano and Dempsey were champions...real fights and real events were to be had!
This legend deserves a few pages of words, and I will be putting out a tribute soon.