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18-year-old George Dixon walks from his corner of the ring and squares up to his opponent,

21-year-old Tommy Spider-Kelly.

As the two boxers stare into each other's eyes, the crowd cheers in anticipation, because

whoever wins tonight will be named the world bantamweight champion. But for George,

there's even more riding on this bout. Like many Boston fighters, Spider is a white Irish American, but George is black,

and there's never been a black world champion in boxing or any other sport.

George widens his stance, raises his chin, and then lifts his fists.

The bell sounds signaling the start of the first round.

George hops from foot to foot, watching his opponent move

and sizing up his speed and reach. Spider throws the first blow, but George ducks and blocks with ease.

Two men continue to spar, neither landing a definitive hit. But when they circle each other,

George notices that Spider favors his right arm, leaving his left

side undefended.

So George faints with his left hand, and Spider reacts.

George then surprises him with a right hook.

Spider staggers back.

A handful of black spectators at the back of the crowd erupt into cheers, and it's too early

for George to celebrate. Spider quickly goes back of the crowd erupt into cheers and it's too early for George to celebrate.

...