Egan, Copp vs Olver at Eagle Tavern (1829)

Early in March, 1829, the second Wrestling Match for the season took place at the Eagle Tavern in the City Road. The match was betwixt James Copp, a Devonian, and Francis Olver, of Cornwall. Fifteen sovereigns a-side was the sum to be contended for, the two first backfalls of three, and to be played in the Devonshire style, with fair shoe and padding. Copp was the favourite with nine-tenths of those present.

After shaking hands, a sharp turn at off-kicking took place. After several feints Olver succeeded in getting a hold, and they both grappled, Olver playing for the fore-hip, and Copp using his best caution as a preventive. After a severe struggle Copp was thrown on his side. In another attempt to strike the fore-hip, by a masterly manœuvre, Olver hooked Copp’s other leg, and giving him at the same time a peculiar turn, threw him flat on his back in his own play. Copp won the second fall by his usual lock. On the third bout, Olver’s jacket slipped over his head, and he was free. (Loud laughter.) Another severe struggle followed until both came down together, neither on their backs. Copp left the ring saying he had thrown his man; Olver remained, and having also stated that he was ready to make a match with Copp for £50 or £100, also retired. Olver had the stakes given to him.

Source: Egan, P. (1836). Pierce Egan’s Book of Sports. T. Tegg, London.