Glasgow, Scotland: Lord Acton and the REC Board have announced that new World Heavyweight Champion Tom Johnson needs only defend his crown once in 1801. Though some will be tempted to assume the decision was made in deference to Johnson's age, the selection of a challenger suggests otherwise. Johnson will face Thomas Owen whose record stands at 10/3/2. Owen has not been bested of late and is the innovator of numerous health and fitness techniques. The fifty-year-old Johnson may not see the other side of his first defense.
World Middleweight title holder Jem Belcher will be required to meet both Tinman Hooper and Spaniard Harris in the year to come.
1800 Heavyweight World Rankings
Out: The London prize ring bids farewell to Gentleman John Jackson and George the Brewer who both have dropped from the active ranks after fine careers.
Out: An embarrassing loss to the winless Squire Fitzgerald has sent Ruffian Symonds packing.
Out: Losses to Jack Firby (two) and Thomas Owen made upward mobility but a dream for Jack Cary.
In: With a well-timed knockout of Tom Pratt, Ben Stanyard finds himself in the tenth position.
In: Andrew Gamble had solid wins over the now retired Tom Tyne and Bill Jones in 1800.
In: Irish Champ Michael Ryan knocked Jack Drake out twice.
In: West Indian Joe Lashley has assembled a 7/3/1 record since arriving in London.
Complete Heavyweight Rankings
Complete Middleweight Rankings
