Arthur Frederick Bettinson | |
|---|---|
 Vanity Fair caricature, 22 November 1911 | |
| Born | 10 March 1862 Marylebone, London, England |
| Died | 24 December 1926 (aged 64) Hampstead, London, England |
| Burial place | Highgate Cemetery East 51°33′56″N 0°08′41″W / 51.5656°N 0.1446°W |
| Nationality | British |
| Occupation(s) | Joint founder and manager of the National Sporting Club, promoter, referee and author |
| Years active | 1879–1925 |
| Organisation | National Sporting Club |
| Spouses |
|
| Children | 2 |
| Honours | International Boxing Hall of Fame Inductee (2011) |
Arthur Frederick "Peggy" Bettinson (10 March 1862 – 4 December 1926) was a skilled pugilist, becoming English Amateur Boxing Association Lightweight Champion in 1882. In 1891 Bettinson co-founded the National Sporting Club (NSC). As its manager, he implemented a strict code of conduct, rules and etiquette that was adhered to by both boxers and spectators, ushering in a culture change that brought respect and legitimacy to what had been a barely regulated, lawless and chaotic sport. He was one of boxing's most prominent and powerful advocates in England's courtrooms in an era when boxing's legal status was uncertain.
Utilising his extensive knowledge of the sport and his no-nonsense reputation, Bettinson promoted many fighters, events and tournaments in boxing and wrestling. His crusade for firm rules and fair play encouraged a growing number of wealthy backers to pour their influence and money into these sports.
Bettinson refereed bouts in London and Wales, controversially disqualifying Jim Driscoll in 1910. The NSC enhanced the reputation and reach of boxing during World War I, working with various regiments to lay on training and tournaments for the British and French armed forces. They also raised money to supply ambulance cars to the British Red Cross and the Allies. He authored and co-authored a number of books during his life, exulting his theories on the art of boxing. Bettinson was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2011.