Stanley Ketchel retained the world middleweight championship on July 31, 1908, knocking out top contender Hugo Kelly in the third round at the Coliseum in San Francisco. The sudden finish overshadowed two spirited rounds in which Kelly boxed well and forced the champion to work for the opening he wanted.
The Chicago contender entered the ring with an impressive reputation built on victories over Philadelphia Jack O’Brien, Mike Schreck and Joe Grim, plus draws against Tommy Ryan and Billy Papke. His speed, defense and ring intelligence made him one of the strongest challengers Ketchel faced during his title reign.
