The First Professional Boxing Broadcast
Jack Dempsey vs. Billy Miske – September 6, 1920
Heavyweight champion Jack Dempsey stands victorious as Billy Miske lies on the canvas during their legendary 1920 title bout in Benton Harbor, Michigan.
On September 6, 1920, the Twin Cities of Benton Harbor and St. Joseph, Michigan stepped into sports broadcasting history. That day, as heavyweight champion Jack Dempsey faced challenger Billy Miske at Benton Harbor’s outdoor ballpark, radio made its professional boxing debut — bringing the sights and sounds of a title fight into living rooms miles away.
It was more than just a match; it was a technological milestone that helped launch radio as a fixture of American sports culture.
The Fight That Made History
The bout was held at Floyd Fitzsimmons’ ballpark in Benton Harbor, a venue known for attracting big-name sporting events in the early 20th century. Fitzsimmons, a colorful promoter, had a flair for the dramatic — and with Dempsey’s fierce reputation and Miske’s gritty determination, this fight was primed to draw attention.
But what made it truly groundbreaking was the partnership with radio pioneers who broadcast the action live. For the first time, fans who couldn’t snag a seat at the ballpark could follow a professional boxing match as it happened, thanks to early radio transmission.
Dempsey, Miske, and the Action in the Ring
Jack Dempsey, nicknamed the Manassa Mauler, was at the peak of his powers — known for his ferocious style and knockout punch. Billy Miske, a skilled fighter in his own right, was battling not just Dempsey but severe health challenges (he was secretly fighting kidney disease).
The match was swift and decisive. Dempsey overwhelmed Miske, securing a third-round knockout. The crowd at the ballpark roared — and so did fans listening miles away, amazed at this new way of experiencing sports.
Why Benton Harbor & St. Joseph?
Floyd Fitzsimmons had turned Benton Harbor into a surprising hub for big-time boxing. With its ballpark and location near Chicago, the Twin Cities offered a perfect stage for the fight — and for radio to test its potential as a sports broadcast medium.
A New Era for Sports and Radio
The success of the Dempsey-Miske broadcast marked the beginning of radio’s deep connection with sports. Soon, baseball, football, and more boxing matches would become staples of American radio waves.
And it all started in Michigan’s Twin Cities.
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