Jem Mace

(James) Jem Mace ( born April 8, 1831 in Beeston, Norfolk, † November 30, 1910 in Jarrow, Tyne and Wear ) was a British boxer of the bare- knuckle era. He belonged to the Roma people.

In 1855 he started with the boxes. In 1861 he beat Sam Hurst, who was widely regarded as a champion and about 100 pounds more weighed, in the eighth round knockout. In a famous battle he defeated Tom King, but lost him in a rematch. King refused a third fight. 1866 to 1871 he was again as English champions, the last under London Prize Ring rules. Mace moved to America and boxed a draw with the national champion.

Finally, he went to Australia and worked as a coach. At the end of his life he returned to his home, where he died.

1990 found Mace induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.