Legendary 1893 Boxing Match Ends in Draw After 7 Hours

The longest fight in boxing history took place in New Orleans over a century ago.

Mar. 29, 2026 at 7:32pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the chaotic motion and physicality of a boxing match, with no discernible faces or identifiable figures.A cubist interpretation of the record-breaking boxing match that pushed the limits of human endurance in 1893.New Orleans Today

In 1893, middleweights Andy Bowen and Jack Burke engaged in a record-breaking boxing match that lasted over 7 hours in New Orleans, Louisiana before ending in a draw due to both fighters being physically unable to continue.

Why it matters

This epic bout from the late 19th century stands as a testament to the incredible endurance and determination of early professional boxers, and highlights how the sport has evolved over the past century in terms of rules, safety protocols, and match durations.

The details

The match between Bowen and Burke took place on April 6, 1893 at the Olympic Club in New Orleans. After 110 grueling rounds, both fighters were completely exhausted and could no longer lift their arms, leading the referee to declare the match a draw. This remains the longest boxing match in recorded history.

  • The match took place on April 6, 1893 in New Orleans.
  • The fight lasted over 7 hours, with 110 total rounds.

The players

Andy Bowen

A middleweight boxer who competed in the late 19th century.

Jack Burke

A middleweight boxer who competed in the late 19th century and participated in the record-breaking match against Andy Bowen.

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The takeaway

This historic boxing match demonstrates the incredible physical endurance of early professional fighters, and how the sport has evolved over the past century to prioritize safety and reasonable match durations.