Vintage Set of 4 Original Boxing Press Photographs – James “Bonecrusher” Smith, George Walker, Tony Smith (x2)

A rare and highly collectible set of four original press photographs capturing defining moments from British and international boxing history, spanning from the early 1960s through the 1980s. Each photograph is an authentic press agency print, with period editorial notes, stamps, and in some cases crop marks visible on the reverse or directly on the images — clear signs of their original use in newspaper and sports reporting. These authentic editorial details provide provenance and lend the photographs a strong sense of their original context in the golden era of boxing journalism.

1. James “Bonecrusher” Smith, 1984
   A striking image of the American heavyweight contender who went on to become WBA Heavyweight Champion in 1986. The photograph shows Smith in his prime years, a historically significant record of a fighter who shared the ring with the likes of Frank Bruno, Tim Witherspoon, and Mike Tyson.

2. George Walker, 1988
   A remarkable press photo of George Walker, once a boxer himself and later a figure of huge influence in Britain’s leisure industry. The caption notes his extraordinary background: formerly a bodyguard to gangster Billy Hill, and by the 1980s the millionaire chairman of the £350 million Brent Walker empire, with investments in pubs, hotels, and restaurants. An unusual boxing-related photograph linking the sport to wider cultural and business history.

3. Tony Smith with Johnny Driscoll, 1960
   A candid and spirited press shot of Bootle welterweight Tony Smith alongside his manager Johnny Driscoll. Taken as Smith prepared for his Liverpool Stadium bout on August 11, 1960, against American welterweight Larry Baker of New York. Smiling confidently for the press, Smith was eager to avenge a previous two-round knockout defeat.

4. Tony Smith vs Alberto Alsinet, 1962
   An action-packed fight photograph dated 14 December 1962, showing Tony Smith landing a decisive right-hand blow on Spanish opponent Alberto Alsinet, sending him on the path to defeat. A powerful ringside shot capturing the grit, drama, and energy of mid-century British boxing.

Each photograph is in very good condition, with strong tones and sharp definition, showing only the expected light editorial handling that confirms their authenticity as genuine period press images. Together, these four photographs tell a layered story of the boxing world: from ringside action to behind-the-scenes personalities, from local fighters to international champions.

A superb set for collectors of boxing, vintage sports photography, or anyone seeking evocative display pieces for a sports bar, gym, study, or private collection. These photographs carry not only the spirit of the ring but also the history of the pressrooms that brought boxing’s biggest personalities into the public eye.