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1911 Frank Gotch & Gene Hackenschmidt Original Panorama
Among the greatest legends of early wrestling, Frank Gotch reigned as World Heavyweight Champion from 1908 to 1915. The world title was on the line when Gotch challenged the heavily favored "Russian Lion", Georg Hackenschmidt on April 3, 1908. Despite rumors of rough and unsportsmanlike behavior, Gotch appears to have thoroughly psyched out his opponent by showing unflappable good cheer, both before and during the match, and used his speed convincingly against a much stronger opponent. Two hours and three minutes into the bout, Gotch applied a submission hold and won the first of three falls. Hackenschmidt refused to return to the ring, and Gotch was awarded the World Title. A rematch was held on September 4, 1911 at newly opened Comiskey Park in Chicago, before a crowd of 33,000. Gotch again triumphed, winning two falls within one half hour. It was rumored, but never proven, the Hackenschmidt was intentionally injured prior to the fight. In any event, Frank Gotch later became the very first inductee into both Wrestling Halls of Fame. Huge public interest in these two matches resulted in the adoption of wrestling programs by high schools around the country, and thus the bouts proved to be of far-reaching and lasting significance. This original Panorama nicely captures the second (1911) match, and measures 23 1/2" x 7 1/2", and is framed in black and gilt wood under glass to a total dimension of 27" x 11 1/2". A photo inset provides a very nice closeup of the two famous wrestlers. A touch of light reddish stain may be found along the right edge, but overall condition is EX, with only minor creasing and no tears or missing paper.
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