For some, Palookaville is a place where former Comic Strip hero Joe Palooka reigned supreme; for others it’s a place for down-and-outers. For me, it’s far worse and often takes a long and agonizing journey to get there. On May 8, 1974, ‘Irish Jerry” Quarry showed the first signs of something being wrong as he appeared bloated and his reflexes seemed off when he fought … [Read more...]
What If’s Excellent Heavyweight Adventure Part 14: Mama Said Knock You Out
Welcome to another episode of What If's Excellent Heavyweight Adventure, where the time has finally arrived---every fight from here on out is win or it's into the time machine with you for a trip back to your own era. From here out, I'm assuming you're familiar with the series; if not, punch “What If” into the Tribune's search function---the archive's all there. Previously, on … [Read more...]
What If’s Excellent Heavyweight Adventure Part 11: Breaking Rocks at the Quarry
Welcome to another edition of What If?, as the first round of the heavyweight tournament group stage continues. Read the intro and method here. Catch up with the 1920s and 1960s group stage in Episodes 3 and 7. Previously, on What If: Well, the 1920s are a fine mess, aren't they? When last we saw our competitors, Luis Firpo was the beneficiary of the San Dimas Screwjob, … [Read more...]
What If’s Excellent Heavyweight Adventure Part 7: The San Dimas Screwjob
Welcome to another edition of What If?, as the first round of the heavyweight tournament group stage continues. Read the intro and method here. Catch up with the 1920s and 1960s group stage in Episode 3. Previously, on What If: When last we left our fist-throwing heroes from the 1920s and '60s, Jack Dempsey and Gene Tunney seemed headed for a meaningful showdown and … [Read more...]
What If’s Excellent Heavyweight Adventure: Part 3
Welcome to another edition of What If?, as the first round of the heavyweight tournament group stage continues. Read the intro and method here. Previously, on What If: Last week, we saw a fight between Rocky Marciano and Ezzard Charles that would be the Fight of the Year in 1954, in 1988, or just about any other year in boxing history. Everyone in attendance knew they'd … [Read more...]