Arthur Chambers was born in Lancashire, England and began his pro boxing career in 1864 after serving in the Queen's Royal Navy. Chambers won recognition as lightweight champion of America after his 1872 fight against Billy Edwards in Canada. The pair engaged in a bitter battle with Chambers winning on a foul in the 26th round.
Chambers retired for two years in 1877 after the middle finger on his left hand was amputated. When he returned, he participated in one more bout and many consider it to be the first great lightweight bout in history. He met American Johnny Clark on March 27, 1879 in Chippewa Falls, Canada. The bout lasted 136 rounds for an elapsed time of 2 hours and 23 minutes before Chambers won by knockout. It established a record for the longest bout between international opponents.
In retirement, Chambers was also an early financial backer of heavyweight champ John L. Sullivan. In fact, one of Sullivan's early bouts took place inside of Chambers' Philadelphia saloon. He was also selected by Sullivan to act as "umpire" in his famous bout with Paddy Ryan. Chambers also operated a saloon and a famous boxing gym in Philadelphia.
Born: Dec. 3, 1847
Died: May 25, 1925
Induction: 2000
Arthur Chambers
