Instead of going directly to a neutral corner, Dempsey remained near his fallen opponent, waiting for the opportunity to strike again. Barry repeatedly directed him away before beginning the count. Under the rules in effect that night, the referee could not start counting until the standing boxer reached a neutral corner. Ironically, Dempsey’s own camp had requested that specific rule before the rematch.
Film of the bout later showed Tunney remained on the canvas for roughly 13 to 14 seconds from the moment he fell until he got back to his feet at Barry’s count of nine. Those images have kept the controversy a
