Born March 3, 1813 in Morocco. At a young age he was employed as a cabin boy on the “Hopewell,” an East Indian ship. On voyages he frequently engaged in boxing contests and, by all measures, impressed all who saw him.
He pursued a future in the ring and, after being tutored by leading pugilist Jem Burns, began his career in London. His first recorded bout was against Tom McKeever in 1833 and he won after 54 minutes of skillful fighting. Next came wins over Bill Fisher (W 49), Harry Preston (W 16), William Renwick (W 89, TK 64) and his most famous victory over Hammer Lane in 1840 (KO 52). At five foot eight inches and 153-pounds, Wharton possessed a tremendous fighting frame. An exceptional athlete, he was crafty in battle, gifted at both offense and defense. The clever boxing “Moroccan Prince” remained unbeaten during his fighting days. Tremendously popular, he also seconded many battlers of his era including Ben Caunt and Bendigo Thompson.
Wharton died on April 25, 1856 in Liverpool, England.
Born: March 3, 1813
Died: April 25, 1856
Induction: 2012
James Wharton (Young Molineaux)
