Fleischer, Nat – Gene Tunney, Enigma of the Ring

Description

Fleischer, Nat ‘Gene Tunney, Enigma of the Ring’ 1931 1st ed. 127 pages. Good condition with bright colored covers. There’s a minor issue at the bottom of the spine as can be seen by the 2nd scan.

Nat Fleischer’s 1931 hardcover Gene Tunney: The Enigma of the Ring is a 127-page first-edition biography published by The Ring, Inc. It chronicles the unique life and boxing career of James Joseph “Gene” Tunney, the World Heavyweight Champion who famously retired at the top of his game.

The “Enigma” Premise: The book explores why Tunney was considered an outsider and a puzzle to the traditional boxing world. Unlike the rough-and-tumble fighters of his era, Tunney was highly analytical, prized defensive mastery, openly read classical literature, and socialized with high society—traits that mystified the public and sports journalists alike.

Career Milestone Recaps: Fleischer details Tunney’s rise from a Marine boxing champion to capturing the American Light Heavyweight title. It provides extensive ringside perspectives on his legendary victories, most notably his two defeats of Jack Dempsey, including the highly controversial “Long Count Fight” of 1927.

The Greb Rivalry: The text covers his fierce five-fight series against his ultimate rival, Harry Greb—the only man to ever defeat Tunney in a professional bout, a loss Tunney later avenged multiple times.

Visual Record: The hardcover is heavily illustrated, featuring a frontispiece and 23 black-and-white plates capturing key fights, training camps, and portraits of Tunney.