informally, boxing has been a street activity ever since humans could raise fists - ancient greeks believed the gods participated in fist fighting for sport, thus boxing became part of the original olympic games in 688 bc.

historically, boxing was generally bare fisted and different eras had various rules. roman gladiators often wrapped their fists in leather during boxing matches, but it is theorized this technique was more to protect their hands than soften the blows.

during the 18th century, boxing became very popular - there were no formal rules, and eye gouges, groin shots, and head butts were all acceptable forms of play at the time.