Gene Tunney

Gene Tunney (May 25, 1897-November 7, 1978), former heavyweight boxing champion of the world, authentic, autographed and inscribed vintage photograph.

Original black-and-white publicity photograph of heavyweight champion Gene Tunney, inscribed, “To Larry Cameron, with warmest greetings & good ‘Pontiacing.’ Gene Tunney.”

Gene Tunney, “The Fighting Marine,” was heavyweight boxing champion from 1926-1928, defeating Jack Dempsey twice, first in 1926 and then in a return bout in 1927. After his first victory Tunney remarked, “I did six years of planning to win the championship from Jack Dempsey.” His successful title defense against Dempsey is one of the most famous bouts in boxing history, known as ”The Long Count,” in which new rules were employed regarding knockdowns. A fallen fighter would have ten seconds to regain his feet under his own power, after his opponent moved to a neutral corner— which after flooring Tunney, Dempsey failed to do, giving Tunney extra time to recover and eventually win. The recipient of this inscribed photograph of Tunney was champion rodeo rider and successful Sacramento auto dealer Robert “Larry” Cameron, close friend of heavyweight champion Max Baer.

Approximately 7 x 9 inches in size. Fine condition.