Oxfordshire, England: Tom Johnson, author of a miraculous victory over Ben Bryan in 1800, was unable to repeat the effort against Thomas Owen. The challenger, eighteen years Johnson's junior, was more than the aging pugilist could contend with.
Owen took a defensive posture from the start keeping well out of the champion's reach only venturing in close when he thought a blow could be landed. Johnson quickly became frustrated and wore himself ragged attempting to hit his elusive foe. He had a touch of success in the middle rounds when a few roundhouses found flesh but the match decidedly belonged to Owen. Though no blood was drawn, Johnson's eyes were both badly swollen when the decision was called out. Nine rounds for Owen, five for Johnson and one even.
With Bryan's career on the wane and Bartholomew stumbling of late, the only man who may pose imminent danger to Owen's World Heavyweight claim is West Indian Joe Lashley.
Other Doings:
American Bill Richmond has reversed his early ring misfortunes with three solid victories in 1801 including two by knockout in the fall. Richmond now boasts a 6/3/0 record and may well give World Middleweight champ Jem Belcher a tough go in the near term.
OWEN DISPLAYS PROWESS