For centuries there had been fistfighters, and from the early days of industry it was apparent that the Welsh had a particular passion for boxing. This book traces that passion through the lives of champions, by recalling their great bouts and by showing how moments of triumph were celebrated by whole communities.

'No boxing fan worth their salt would want to be without this compelling book.' Brian Lee, The Cardiff Post, 2008 'Prizefighting as irresistible social and cultural history - evocation as celebration in an inspiringly eloquent homage to the valour and romance of the Ring - as well as its too often and pitiless sobering realities.' Frank Keating, The Guardian 'The collection packs a colourful punch with its vivid accounts of Cardiff's Jim Driscoll, the Rhondda's Jimmy Wilde and the intriguing story of Pontypridd's Freddie Welsh.' Carolyn Hitt, Western Mail Online 'This collection provides a priceless insight into a fighting tradition'. Dilwyn Roberts-Young, Planet 194 'Wales and its Boxers offers a brilliant exposition of the noble art and its practitioners from its pre-industrial origins to the present day. An outstanding collection of essays by Welsh historians and other cultural authorities.' Jeff Childs, Morgannwg Volume LII, 2008