Gunboat Smith Profile and Colorized Sparring Footage, London 1914

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ABOUT THIS FILM
Edward "Gunboat" Smith was an Irish American boxer, a film actor and a boxing referee who fought professionally from 1909 to 1921. During his career, The Gunner fought twelve different Boxing Hall of Famers, regardless of race, including work as a sparring partner for champion Jack Johnson. Among the all-time greats he fought were Jack Dempsey, Harry Greb, and Georges Carpentier. Smith’s most notable victories were wins by decision over the great Sam Langford, and against future Heavyweight Champion Jess Willard. Both fights in 1913.
In 1914, at the peak of his career, Smith traveled to England to fight the European champion Georges Carpentier. The fight took place in front of 10,000 spectators at the Olympia in London. Unfortunately, the fight ended in controversy. In the sixth round, Carpentier stumbled or was knocked down. Smith followed through with a punch while Georges still on the canvas. Though the punch was unintentional, the referee stopped the fight anyway and, despite protests, Smith was disqualified.
Very little footage exists of Gunboat Smith during his career. This British Pathe newsreel was taken as Smith arrived in London in 1914. Recently, additional footage from the same visit has come to light as well. This rare film, taken in Hendon, North London, gives us a brief glimpse of Smith in action, as he spars with fellow American heavyweight, Bob Armstrong.
Smith retired in 1921. He went on to appear as an actor in movies through the 1920s and 30s. Later, he became a ring official, as seen here refereeing the 1931 fight between Jack Sharkey and Primo Carnera. Smith died in 1974.

[@brucekielty8180]

Fascinating rare footage. So grateful that it has been preserved.

[@martindunstan8043]

A criminally underrated fighter that had a combined record against HOFs 23 fights, great tribute ✌️🥊

[@Lickerboxing]

He’s back!!

[@2KDUDE22]

Amazing stuff! Thank you

[@pugil1st]

Wow, what footage! Your productions are superior and your narration is wonderful!! Not only is the Gunboat Smith video rare, but also that of the great trainer, Bob Armstrong! I don't think I've seen him in action before.

[@FightFilmsGuy]

Thank you, my friend. I knew about Gunboat, but learned so much more while doing research for this video, as well as Bob Armstrong. Both very interesting figures. Smith spoke about Armstrong during one interview, saying that Armstrong was a great sparring partner and gym fighter, but did not show the same determination in his pro fights, which might explain his record.

[@edwardamorino3761]

Thank you great job.

[@glenray335]

He pops up in old movies on Turner Classic movies once in a while. Usually a doorman, chauffeur, or policeman part.