"Sociogenesis of Boxing"

Boxing first originated when a person first lifted their fist against another in play. Ancient Greeks believed boxing or "fist fighting" was a sport played by the gods on Olympus. This was the reason that it became apart of the Olympic Games in 688 BC. During the Roman period boxers wore leather bands around their fists and sometimes metal-filled leather hand covering called "cesti". This would sometimes result in bloody, duel-to-death fights. Early on boxing resembled street fights. It wasn't until 1743 that modern rules were established such as eliminating hitting below the belt line. Rounds were limited to 3-minute rounds and the use of gloves were mandatory. The increasing popularity of boxing has lead to weight classes being developed. Boxing has become a controversial topic. The reason it has become a issue is because of its violent nature and its identification with betting. Even though it has become an issue boxing still remains internationally popular.



Early Boxing




Modern Boxing