Battling Nelson (Oscar Matthew Nielson), The Durable Dane, was born on June 5, 1882 in Copenhagen, Denmark. He began his professional career on September 3, 1896 with a 1 round KO of Wallace's Kid in Hammond, Indiana. He fought for over 20 years retiring after his bout with Freddy Welsh on April 17, 1917. He won the World Lightweight Title on July 4, 1908 stopping the great Joe Gans in 17 rounds. He defended the title 4 times before losing it to Ad Wolgast by TKO in 40 rounds on February 22, 1910. His final career mark was 67-31-25 with 7 no decisions and 1 no contest. He posted career victories in addition to Gans over Dick Hyland, Terry McGovern and Young Corbett. Offered here is a scarce wedding breakfast program for Battling Nelson and his wife Fay King Nelson at the Wellington Hotel in Chicago on January 23, 1913.This is an original 4 page program featuring pictures of Battling Nelson and his wife at Pike's Peak and in Denver, Colorado. Includes the menu and honors the guests who included his manager John R.Robinson and World Bantamweight Champion Johnny Coulon. Has a center crease. Tight binding. Clean. Has tape residue on the back cover from being mounted.6 1/2" x 8 1/2."
