This is a martial arts style of several races in the ancient world (reaching into the Bronze Age and prehistory), especially the Greeks and (Asian) Indians. A form of boxing known as ch'uan p'o was known in China as early as 700 BC. Ancient Boxing is simpler than modern boxing, nowhere as scientific or punishing in application.

In the Greek form of the art, fighting stance consists of the pugilist keeping his blocking (usually left) arm outstretched before him, with the hand usually open, and keeping his striking hand cocked back for blows.

Sometimes, a weapon known as a Cestus, which is a brutal "glove" with spikes, studs and sharp edges, was used with this style.

Boxing, Modern

Modern boxing is a gradual evolution of ancient boxing. According to legend, some effort at systemizing boxing as a sport took place 700 years ago, when St. Bernard taught boxing to youths to keep them from knifing one another. In England, the practice of prize-fights began some 200 years ago, with contests fought with bare fists, though this sport was illegal and frequently raided.

In 1865, the Marquis of Queensberry drafted his famous rules for the sport; his rules called for the use of boxing gloves and timed rounds in boxing matches. One can only imagine how the fights looked without such niceties as boxing gloves and timed rounds...