Corbett, (James John) (1866-1933)

US boxer who gained the heavyweight title in his 1892 New Orleans fight with reigning champion John L Sullivan. It was the first title bout to be fought with gloves and according to the Marquess of Queensberry rules. Corbett held the title until his defeat 1897 by Robert Fitzsimmons.

Born in San Francisco, USA, Corbett became a professional boxer 1886 after a brief career as a bank clerk. He eventually gained a national reputation for his elegant manner and his dangerous right hook (a punch that he popularized).