Boxing (pygme)

Boxing was also one of the most popular events, having emerged from the use of man’s natural weapon, his fist (pygme) in his daily life but also at war.

In early sources, it is described as an event that requires dexterity and endurance, whereas in later times it was more associated with brute force.

As a men’s event, it was first held in the 23rd Olympiad in 688 BC, whereas as a boys’ event it was added in the 41st Olympiad in 616 BC.

The pairs of boxers (pyctes) were chosen by lot.

Boxers targeted at their opponent’s head and face. Holds, kicks and dangerous blows were prohibited. He, who would succeed in disabling his opponent or who would make him concede defeat by raising one or two of his fingers in the apagoreuein gesture, was declared victor. However, disfigurements and deaths of athletes have been documented. In such cases, it was the deceased athlete who was announced victor.

Boxers or pyctes protected their hands with leather thongs (himantes) with which they wrapped the proximal phalanges, the wrists and part of the forearms, leaving the upper part of the fingers exposed. Over time, the shape of the thongs changed, so as to inflict severe harm, and evolved into the Roman metal gloves.

Hence, the event turned from an offensive into a reactive sport, in which the victor could impose himself through defence.