France: Pre-1890
#PWHS #Results #Wrestling #ProWrestling #GrecoRoman #GraecoRoman #Paris #Europe #France #FR
1850 (no results)
1851 (no results)
1852 (no results)
1853
DECEMBER 1853
DECEMBER 4, 1853 (SUNDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - M. Arpin "the Rampart of Straosburg" Vs. M'lle Angelina,
Result Unknown
Note:
The match is Man Vs. Woman.
DECEMBER 1853
DECEMBER 4, 1853 (SUNDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - M. Arpin "the Rampart of Straosburg" Vs. M'lle Angelina,
Result Unknown
Note:
The match is Man Vs. Woman.
1854 (no results)
1855
JANUARY 1855
JANUARY 14, 1855 (SUNDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - Mixed Style (Graeco-Roman/Lutte Libre) - 100 Francs
"The Tireless Miller of La Palud" Marseille Sr. Vs. Blas (of Spain),
Result Unknown
2 - Graeco-Roman
Baboula Vs. Blas,
Result Unknown
3 - French Boxing
Blas Vs. "A Famous Professor",
Result Unknown
Notes:
Match 1 - they were to wrestle for 40 minutes at Graeco-Roman and only swap to the other style if no winner was decided.
JANUARY 21, 1855 (SUNDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - Rematch - Mixed Style (Graeco-Roman/Lutte Libre) - 100 Francs
Marseille Sr. Vs. Blas,
Result Unknown
2 - French Boxing
Blas Vs. "A Local Professor",
Result Unknown
Notes:
There was an afternoon and matinee show, it's not clear what was on each show.
There was a single elimination tournament featuring Chavassieux, Ambland, Verjus, Jeean-Louis and amateurs.
[Lutte Libre = Freestyle]
1856 (no results)
1857
JUNE 1857
JUNE 6, 1857 (SATURDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"The Prefect of Police has interdicted public exhibitions of wrestling and boxing, which have heretofore been somewhat fequent in Paris."
JUNE 1857
JUNE 6, 1857 (SATURDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"The Prefect of Police has interdicted public exhibitions of wrestling and boxing, which have heretofore been somewhat fequent in Paris."
OCTOBER 1857
OCTOBER 19, 1857 (MONDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Attendance: "Big Success"
Featuring the "Premier Wrestlers In The World"
Notes:
Rossignol-Rollin is said to be from the Palais de l'Alcazar in Lyon.
The paper predicted the arena will be packed to capacity for the next event as well.
OCTOBER 30, 1857 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
OCTOBER 1857
OCTOBER 19, 1857 (MONDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Attendance: "Big Success"
Featuring the "Premier Wrestlers In The World"
Notes:
Rossignol-Rollin is said to be from the Palais de l'Alcazar in Lyon.
The paper predicted the arena will be packed to capacity for the next event as well.
OCTOBER 30, 1857 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
NOVEMBER 1857
NOVEMBER 13, 1857 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
NOVEMBER 15, 1857 (SUNDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Palais de l'Alcazar, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Notes:
It's mentioned in a Saint-Etienne paper that Rossignol-Rollin runs shows here every Sunday.
This is said to be the main base of his operation.
NOVEMBER 1857
NOVEMBER 13, 1857 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
NOVEMBER 15, 1857 (SUNDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Palais de l'Alcazar, Lyon, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
Notes:
It's mentioned in a Saint-Etienne paper that Rossignol-Rollin runs shows here every Sunday.
This is said to be the main base of his operation.
1858
NOVEMBER 1858
NOVEMBER 5, 1858 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - Lacroix Vs. Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Frint Vs. The Shepherd Etienne,
Result Unknown
3 - Baboula Vs. Sanuais,
Result Unknown
4 - Roussel vs. The Shepherd Etienne,
Result Unknown
Notes:
This was the second show of the season.
The headliner was "The Human Cannon" Vigneron.
It's said he will carry a charged canon weighing 305 kg (673 lbs) on his shoulder and it will be fired, while he's holding it.
NOVEMBER 1858
NOVEMBER 5, 1858 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - Lacroix Vs. Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Frint Vs. The Shepherd Etienne,
Result Unknown
3 - Baboula Vs. Sanuais,
Result Unknown
4 - Roussel vs. The Shepherd Etienne,
Result Unknown
Notes:
This was the second show of the season.
The headliner was "The Human Cannon" Vigneron.
It's said he will carry a charged canon weighing 305 kg (673 lbs) on his shoulder and it will be fired, while he's holding it.
DECEMBER 1858
DECEMBER 24, 1858 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - Lacroix Vs. Justin and Louis "Two Local Amateurs",
Result Unknown
2 - Freestyle
Lacroix Vs. The Shepherd Etienne,
Result Unknown
3 - The Black Wrestler Vs. Dumortier,
Result Unknown
4 - Frint Vs. Jean-Marie "Local Amateur",
Result Unknown
5 - Vincent Vs. Dumortier,
Result Unknown
6 - English Boxing
James Gettes Vs. Dumortier,
Result Unknown
DECEMBER 1858
DECEMBER 24, 1858 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - Lacroix Vs. Justin and Louis "Two Local Amateurs",
Result Unknown
2 - Freestyle
Lacroix Vs. The Shepherd Etienne,
Result Unknown
3 - The Black Wrestler Vs. Dumortier,
Result Unknown
4 - Frint Vs. Jean-Marie "Local Amateur",
Result Unknown
5 - Vincent Vs. Dumortier,
Result Unknown
6 - English Boxing
James Gettes Vs. Dumortier,
Result Unknown
1859
OCTOBER 1859
OCTOBER 2, 1859 (SUNDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salon de Colisée, Chalon-sur-Saône, Saône-et-Loire, France
1 - "The Agile Lyonnais" Dumortier Vs. The Shepherd Etienne,
Result Unknown
Notes:
Also featured: Dumortier; The Shepherd Etienne; amd "The Pearl of Philadelphia" The Black Wrestler.
Those three wrestlers have an open challenge to any amateur or professional wrestler.
Defeat one wrestler and get 200 francs, or defeat all three and get 600 francs.
This is said to be the first time all three wrestlers have been in Chalon.
OCTOBER 1859
OCTOBER 2, 1859 (SUNDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salon de Colisée, Chalon-sur-Saône, Saône-et-Loire, France
1 - "The Agile Lyonnais" Dumortier Vs. The Shepherd Etienne,
Result Unknown
Notes:
Also featured: Dumortier; The Shepherd Etienne; amd "The Pearl of Philadelphia" The Black Wrestler.
Those three wrestlers have an open challenge to any amateur or professional wrestler.
Defeat one wrestler and get 200 francs, or defeat all three and get 600 francs.
This is said to be the first time all three wrestlers have been in Chalon.
NOVEMBER 1859
NOVEMBER 18, 1859 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Featuring French and English Boxing, Feats of Strength and Athleticism
Notes:
This is the fourt and final show.
NOVEMBER 1859
NOVEMBER 18, 1859 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Featuring French and English Boxing, Feats of Strength and Athleticism
Notes:
This is the fourt and final show.
DECEMBER 1859
DECEMBER 9, 1859 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - The Shepherd Etienne Vs. Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Marseille Sr. Vs. Dumortier,
Result Unknown
3 - Arpin Vs. Plantevin,
Result Unknown
4 - Baboula Vs. Justin,
Result Unknown
5 - Athletic Feats
Featuring Vincent and Shepherd Etienne
Notes:
It's mentioned the wrestlers will wrestle until there's a winner.
DECEMBER 1859
DECEMBER 9, 1859 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - The Shepherd Etienne Vs. Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Marseille Sr. Vs. Dumortier,
Result Unknown
3 - Arpin Vs. Plantevin,
Result Unknown
4 - Baboula Vs. Justin,
Result Unknown
5 - Athletic Feats
Featuring Vincent and Shepherd Etienne
Notes:
It's mentioned the wrestlers will wrestle until there's a winner.
1860
JANUARY 1860
JANUARY 2, 1860 (MONDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salon de Colisée, Chalon-sur-Saône, Saône-et-Loire, France
Notes:
Featuring boxing.
Also featuring open challenges from the following wrestlers: The Shepherd Etienne; "The Terrible Savoyard" Arpin; "The Miller of La Palud" Marseille Jr; "The Hercules King" Vincent; and "The Agile Lyonnais" Dumortier.
Prizes range from 200 to 500 francs.
JANUARY 1860
JANUARY 2, 1860 (MONDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salon de Colisée, Chalon-sur-Saône, Saône-et-Loire, France
Notes:
Featuring boxing.
Also featuring open challenges from the following wrestlers: The Shepherd Etienne; "The Terrible Savoyard" Arpin; "The Miller of La Palud" Marseille Jr; "The Hercules King" Vincent; and "The Agile Lyonnais" Dumortier.
Prizes range from 200 to 500 francs.
OCTOBER 1860
OCTOBER 22, 1860 (MONDAY)
Athletic Show
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Featuring Wrestling
OCTOBER 1860
OCTOBER 22, 1860 (MONDAY)
Athletic Show
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Featuring Wrestling
NOVEMBER 1860
NOVEMBER 8, 1860 (THURSDAY)
Athletic Show
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Featuring Wrestling
1861 (no results)
1862
DECEMBER 1862
DECEMBER 1, 1862 (MONDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - The Shepherd Etienne Vs. "The Iron Man" Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Armand Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Result Unknown
3 - Charles the Arab Vs. Alfred the Parisian,
Result Unknown
4 - Feats of Strength
Featuring The Shepherd Etienne, Vincent and Alfred
DECEMBER 5, 1862 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Notes:
The second show.
DECEMBER 8, 1862 (MONDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - Feats of Strength
Featuring A, The Shepherd Etienne, Vincent and Alfred
Notes:
It was announced the following will be in action: The famous Shepherd Etienne; "The Hercules of Puy" Valette; "The Iron Man" Vincent; "The Strong, Young and Handsome Miller of Alais" Armand; "The Lion of La Palud" Marseille Jr; "The Desert Snake" The Arab Charles; and "The Pretty Parisian Model" Alfred.
DECEMBER 12, 1862 (FRIDAY)
Wrestling Show
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
DECEMBER 1862
DECEMBER 1, 1862 (MONDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - The Shepherd Etienne Vs. "The Iron Man" Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Armand Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Result Unknown
3 - Charles the Arab Vs. Alfred the Parisian,
Result Unknown
4 - Feats of Strength
Featuring The Shepherd Etienne, Vincent and Alfred
DECEMBER 5, 1862 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Notes:
The second show.
DECEMBER 8, 1862 (MONDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - Feats of Strength
Featuring A, The Shepherd Etienne, Vincent and Alfred
Notes:
It was announced the following will be in action: The famous Shepherd Etienne; "The Hercules of Puy" Valette; "The Iron Man" Vincent; "The Strong, Young and Handsome Miller of Alais" Armand; "The Lion of La Palud" Marseille Jr; "The Desert Snake" The Arab Charles; and "The Pretty Parisian Model" Alfred.
DECEMBER 12, 1862 (FRIDAY)
Wrestling Show
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1863
DECEMBER 1863
DECEMBER 9, 1863 (WEDNESDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - The Shepherd Etienne Vs. Richoux,
Result Unknown
2 - Marseille Jr. Vs. Lacroix,
Result Unknown
3 - Beranger Vs. Alfred,
Result Unknown
Notes:
First show of the season.
The winners of the matches will get various prizes, ranging from 100 to 200 francs.
DECEMBER 1863
DECEMBER 9, 1863 (WEDNESDAY)
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
1 - The Shepherd Etienne Vs. Richoux,
Result Unknown
2 - Marseille Jr. Vs. Lacroix,
Result Unknown
3 - Beranger Vs. Alfred,
Result Unknown
Notes:
First show of the season.
The winners of the matches will get various prizes, ranging from 100 to 200 francs.
1864
JANUARY 1864
JANUARY 11, 1864 (MONDAY)
Wrestling Show
Promoter: Rossignol-Rollin
Troupe: Rossignol-Rollin
Salle de la Rotonde Saint-Charles, Saint-Etienne, Loire, France
Notes:
Prizes for the winners will range from 300 to 500 francs.
1865 (no results)
1866 (no results)
1867
MAY 1867
MAY 27, 1867 (MONDAY)
Casino, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Marseille Jr. Vs. Richoux,
Result Unknown
Notes:
This is the third match between Marseille Jr. and Richoux.
MAY 31, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Casino, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Richoux def. Faouet
Notes:
The match was a draw, but the fans were angry and refused to leave until a winner was declared. Some fans even stormed the mat.
Finally, Richoux was declared the winner.
It is mentioned that in his previous bout here Faouet defeated Vincent.
[this could be in reference to the May 27 match, but I'm not sure if it is as there may have been another match between them after May 27]
JUNE 1867
JUNE 9, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Casino, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Marseille Jr. Vs. Richoux,
Result Unknown
JUNE 16, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Athletic Arena (51 Peletier Street), Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Result Unknown
Note:
“Daily wrestling matches are to be held here” is what one report says.
[I’m not sure if this is correct since the norm for wrestling at this venue seems to be 3 shows per week]
JUNE 1867
JUNE 9, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Casino, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Vincent,
Result Unknown
2 - Marseille Jr. Vs. Richoux,
Result Unknown
JUNE 16, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Athletic Arena (51 Peletier Street), Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Result Unknown
Note:
“Daily wrestling matches are to be held here” is what one report says.
[I’m not sure if this is correct since the norm for wrestling at this venue seems to be 3 shows per week]
JULY 1867
JULY 1, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Result Unknown
Note:
Sixteen wrestlers are scheduled to compete on the show.
JULY 1867
JULY 1, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Result Unknown
Note:
Sixteen wrestlers are scheduled to compete on the show.
AUGUST 1867
AUGUST 1, 1867 (THURSDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Article mentions that Faouet, Dumortier, Marseille Jr. and Ambroise have been wrestling at the Athletic Arena
AUGUST 4, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Hippodrome, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - “The Man of Iron” Vincent Vs. Charpentier,
Result Unknown
2 - “The Parisian Model” Alfred Vs. Bernard,
Result Unknown
Note:
A lot of betting is expected.
AUGUST 5, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. "A New Wrestler",
Result Unknown
AUGUST 19, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler def. Dumortier
(00:03:00)
Note:
The Masked Wrestler had said he would give Dumortier 100 francs if he can throw him. The masked wrestler arrived to the arena via "car" (it says car, but this meant horse carriage back then). He was wrapped in a black cloak and had a veil on his head. When he removed his coat he was dressed in a silk suit with velvet pants.
AUGUST 21, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler def. Marseille Jr.
(00:03:00+)
AUGUST 23, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler def. Faouet
Note:
It’s worth noting that the wrestling shows at this arena are held three times per week, at this point (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday). I’m not sure if this was the case back in June when the shows started (I would assume so though). The 3 shows per week format continued all the way through January. Even if I don’t mention a show in the notes there were always 3 shows per week at the arena. In the notes I’ve mentioned only the shows for which I was able to find specific information.
AUGUST 27, 1867 (TUESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler def. Marseille Jr.
(00:03:00)
Note:
An August 28th article offers some backstory. It says that a few days ago Marseille Sr. (the director of the Athletic Arena) received a letter by an amateur who wished to wrestle all the pros. This wrestler, however, had some conditions. He wished to remain incognito. He had to arrive in a closed off "car", in his wrestling clothes, with a black mask on his face and gloves on his hands. The director refused at first, but then he agreed. Yesterday the masked wrestler arrived by "car" again at 10 PM. When he removed his black satin coat he was dressed in a white silk shirt and black velvet pants. He had a black mask on, black gloves and white shoes. His opponent was Marseille Jr.
AUGUST 28, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"The curiosity of Paris is just now excited by a mysterious individual who appears masked in a circus where wrestling and feats of strength are exhibited, takes off a cloak and discloses an athletic person clad in silk tights and black velvet drawers, and who has overthrown with apparent ease the most distinguished professional wrestlers of the Paris ring. His superiority to those champoions previously esteemed invincible, so so great that they stand but a minute or two before him." - Newcastle Journal
AUGUST 1867
AUGUST 1, 1867 (THURSDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Article mentions that Faouet, Dumortier, Marseille Jr. and Ambroise have been wrestling at the Athletic Arena
AUGUST 4, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Hippodrome, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - “The Man of Iron” Vincent Vs. Charpentier,
Result Unknown
2 - “The Parisian Model” Alfred Vs. Bernard,
Result Unknown
Note:
A lot of betting is expected.
AUGUST 5, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. "A New Wrestler",
Result Unknown
AUGUST 19, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler def. Dumortier
(00:03:00)
Note:
The Masked Wrestler had said he would give Dumortier 100 francs if he can throw him. The masked wrestler arrived to the arena via "car" (it says car, but this meant horse carriage back then). He was wrapped in a black cloak and had a veil on his head. When he removed his coat he was dressed in a silk suit with velvet pants.
AUGUST 21, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler def. Marseille Jr.
(00:03:00+)
AUGUST 23, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler def. Faouet
Note:
It’s worth noting that the wrestling shows at this arena are held three times per week, at this point (every Monday, Wednesday and Friday). I’m not sure if this was the case back in June when the shows started (I would assume so though). The 3 shows per week format continued all the way through January. Even if I don’t mention a show in the notes there were always 3 shows per week at the arena. In the notes I’ve mentioned only the shows for which I was able to find specific information.
AUGUST 27, 1867 (TUESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler def. Marseille Jr.
(00:03:00)
Note:
An August 28th article offers some backstory. It says that a few days ago Marseille Sr. (the director of the Athletic Arena) received a letter by an amateur who wished to wrestle all the pros. This wrestler, however, had some conditions. He wished to remain incognito. He had to arrive in a closed off "car", in his wrestling clothes, with a black mask on his face and gloves on his hands. The director refused at first, but then he agreed. Yesterday the masked wrestler arrived by "car" again at 10 PM. When he removed his black satin coat he was dressed in a white silk shirt and black velvet pants. He had a black mask on, black gloves and white shoes. His opponent was Marseille Jr.
AUGUST 28, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"The curiosity of Paris is just now excited by a mysterious individual who appears masked in a circus where wrestling and feats of strength are exhibited, takes off a cloak and discloses an athletic person clad in silk tights and black velvet drawers, and who has overthrown with apparent ease the most distinguished professional wrestlers of the Paris ring. His superiority to those champoions previously esteemed invincible, so so great that they stand but a minute or two before him." - Newcastle Journal
SEPTEMBER 1867
SEPTEMBER 2, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Gelon "A New Wrestler",
Result Unknown
2 - Amateur
Falcet Vs. Guillois,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 3, 1867 (TUESDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"An Unknown Athlete
In the Rue le Peletier, Paris there is an arena where the most sturdy athletes of France wrestle three times a week. A few days ago the manager received a letter signed "An Amateur," in which the said amateur proposed to fight successively with all his champions, on the condition that he should preserve the strictest incognito, and that it would be as strictly respected. Agreed. The net evening a brougham stopped at the arena, and the amateur enterted, wrapped in an ample cloak of black satin, enveloping him from head to foot. He sat down for a while. One of the strongest athletes put himself in a fighting attitude. The amateur throws his cloak at once. A thrill of admiration runs through the spectators. His face and neck are covered with a thick black kitting; a tissue of white silk strikingly delineates the prodigious muscle of his torse; he wears black gloves and white pumps; his drawers are of black velvet. He comes to the athlete. The fights begins amid of dead dead silence. The masked man tries top lay hold oin the athlete. After three minutes of parying the unknown man succeeds in grasping the athlete, bluntly bends his back and throws him on the ground. The crowd frantic; a thunder of applause salutes the victory of the modern Samson, who quietly wraps himself in his black cloak and exit by a side door. Who is he? No one can tell. - Globe." - Dublin Evening Mail
SEPTEMBER 8, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Hippodrome, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Man Vs. Vincent and/or Beranger,
Result Unknown
Note
This was a different Masked Wrestler than the one performing at the Athletic Arena. Though having said that, the ads in the papers don't specifically mention that. They just say that The Masked Wrestler will be wrestling at the Hippodrome so one could easily jump to the conclusion that it's the same guy, even though it wasn't. Anyway, this masked wrestler had challenged both wrestlers a day or two prior to this. One article says the two wrestlers are going to wrestle first, the winner facing The Masked Wrestler, but another article just states that the masked guy is taking on both. According to a court case later on The Masked Wrestler ended up being defeated (not sure by whom).
SEPTEMBER 9, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, Paris
"The masked wrestler, after creating a sensation in Paris, has vanished from the scene,, his incognito maintained to the end, and has left the barefaced professionals whom he so piileasly overthrew to rub their bruised shoulderblades and revenge their discomfiture upon one another." - Newcastle Daily Journal
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The return of Bonnet-Lebœuf, “The Giant of the Alps”. He will be wrestling pros and amateurs.
SEPTEMBER 11, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Rematch
Faouet Vs. "The Giant of the Alps" Bonnet-Lebœuf,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 13, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. "The Giant of the Alps" Bonnet-Lebœuf,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 18, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The Masked Wrestler returns to wrestle with the leading wrestlers
SEPTEMBER 20, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. "The Giant of the Alps" Bonnet-Lebœuf,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 25, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Mysterous Masked Wrestler Vs. "The Fierce Beast of the Jungles" Faouet,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 1867
SEPTEMBER 2, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Gelon "A New Wrestler",
Result Unknown
2 - Amateur
Falcet Vs. Guillois,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 3, 1867 (TUESDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"An Unknown Athlete
In the Rue le Peletier, Paris there is an arena where the most sturdy athletes of France wrestle three times a week. A few days ago the manager received a letter signed "An Amateur," in which the said amateur proposed to fight successively with all his champions, on the condition that he should preserve the strictest incognito, and that it would be as strictly respected. Agreed. The net evening a brougham stopped at the arena, and the amateur enterted, wrapped in an ample cloak of black satin, enveloping him from head to foot. He sat down for a while. One of the strongest athletes put himself in a fighting attitude. The amateur throws his cloak at once. A thrill of admiration runs through the spectators. His face and neck are covered with a thick black kitting; a tissue of white silk strikingly delineates the prodigious muscle of his torse; he wears black gloves and white pumps; his drawers are of black velvet. He comes to the athlete. The fights begins amid of dead dead silence. The masked man tries top lay hold oin the athlete. After three minutes of parying the unknown man succeeds in grasping the athlete, bluntly bends his back and throws him on the ground. The crowd frantic; a thunder of applause salutes the victory of the modern Samson, who quietly wraps himself in his black cloak and exit by a side door. Who is he? No one can tell. - Globe." - Dublin Evening Mail
SEPTEMBER 8, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Hippodrome, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Man Vs. Vincent and/or Beranger,
Result Unknown
Note
This was a different Masked Wrestler than the one performing at the Athletic Arena. Though having said that, the ads in the papers don't specifically mention that. They just say that The Masked Wrestler will be wrestling at the Hippodrome so one could easily jump to the conclusion that it's the same guy, even though it wasn't. Anyway, this masked wrestler had challenged both wrestlers a day or two prior to this. One article says the two wrestlers are going to wrestle first, the winner facing The Masked Wrestler, but another article just states that the masked guy is taking on both. According to a court case later on The Masked Wrestler ended up being defeated (not sure by whom).
SEPTEMBER 9, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, Paris
"The masked wrestler, after creating a sensation in Paris, has vanished from the scene,, his incognito maintained to the end, and has left the barefaced professionals whom he so piileasly overthrew to rub their bruised shoulderblades and revenge their discomfiture upon one another." - Newcastle Daily Journal
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The return of Bonnet-Lebœuf, “The Giant of the Alps”. He will be wrestling pros and amateurs.
SEPTEMBER 11, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Rematch
Faouet Vs. "The Giant of the Alps" Bonnet-Lebœuf,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 13, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. "The Giant of the Alps" Bonnet-Lebœuf,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 18, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The Masked Wrestler returns to wrestle with the leading wrestlers
SEPTEMBER 20, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. "The Giant of the Alps" Bonnet-Lebœuf,
Result Unknown
SEPTEMBER 25, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Mysterous Masked Wrestler Vs. "The Fierce Beast of the Jungles" Faouet,
Result Unknown
OCTOBER 1867
OCTOBER 2, 1857 (WEDNESDAY)
"Paris Exhibition.
...
"Two proprietors of shows, each exhibiting a wonderful masked wrestler, whose face has never been seen by mortal man, had adispute the other day at to which might claim the honour of the original idea, as to which was really the 'proprietor' of the real mysterious man. The matter came before a judge. 'Do you mean to say,' said one to his rival, 'that you have never seen the face of your wrestler?'
'Of course, I do,' replied the other, too wary to be trapped into a confession that would have given the lie to his advertisements. 'Then the case is settled,' said the other, 'for I assert that your man is my man. I defy you to prove the contrary; and I demand that you instantly give him up; and further, since neither of us has ever seen my man, I defy you to prove that he is a counterfeit.'" - Birmingham Daily Post
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Mr. Julian (the director of the Athletic Arena – and yes, Marseille Sr. was indeed mentioned as being the director earlier on) tried to sue Mr. Arnault (the director of the Hippodrome) in the commercial court for acts of unfair competition. He was asking for 12,000 francs in damages and for the verdict to be publicized in ten newspapers. Here’s what had happened. In late August of that year a mysterious masked wrestler started wrestling at the Athletic Arena and became a big sensation. Then on September 8th Arnault advertised that The Masked Wrestler would be appearing at his venue (The Hippodrome). This was a different masked wrestler than the original one. Julian claimed this was an attempt to depreciate the value of his own masked wrestler, called it unfair competition and that is why he was seeking damages. Julian was also claiming to have "monopoly over the masked wrestlers" (is the wording used in the articles, basically, he was claiming to have the rights over the gimmick) and more or less wanted to stop Arnault from using a masked wrestler again in the future. The court ended up ruling in favor of Arnault. Their arguments were the following. First of all, Arnault's advertising wasn't trying to disparage Julian's wrestler in any way. Also, the masked wrestler at the Hippodrome ended up being defeated so if anything him losing made Julian's masked wrestler look better. And finally, and perhaps most importantly, the receipts showed that Julian's gates had been continually rising since September 8th so obviously the other masked wrestler did not hurt his business at all.
Hippodrome, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Five pro wrestlers will be competing. One of them, the young Perrier, has issued a challenge The Masked Wrestler from the Athletic Arena
OCTOBER 3, 1867 (THURSDAY)
Rue le Pelletier, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"Verily, we liuve in mysterious times. I told you some time ago that there was at Paris, in the Rue le Pelletier, an arena where the most sturdy of athletes of France wrestle three times a week. A few days ago the manager received a letter signed 'An Amateur,' in which the said amateur proposed to fight successively with all his champions, on the condition that he should preserve the strictest incognito, and that it would be as strictly respected. Agreed. The next evening a brougham stopped at the arena, and the amateur entered, wrapped in an ample cloak of black satin, enveloping him from head to foot. He sat down for a while. One of the strongest athletes put himself in a fighting attitude.
The amateur throws off his cloak at once. A thrill of admiration runs through the spectators. His face and neck are covered with a thick black netting; a tissue of white silk strikingly delineates the prodigious muscles of his torso; he wears black glove and white pumps; his drawers are of black velvet.
He comes to the athlete. The fight begins amid a dead silence. The masked man tries to lay hold of the athlete. His hands must be of iron, for the athlete is roaring each time they touch his sides. After three minutes of parrying the unknown man succeeeds in grappling the athlete, bluntly bends his back, and throws him on the ground.
The crowd is frantic; a thunder of applause the victory of the modern Samson, who quietly wraps himself in his black cloak and exits by a side door.
Who is he? No one can tell, but Echo will surely penetrate his incognito." - Philadelphia Daily Evening Telegraph via the London (England) Herald
OCTOBER 6, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Hippodrome, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The Masked Wrestler will be wrestling vs. the winner of the previous four combatants (the wording is a bit weird, I know, but this is what it says)
OCTOBER 7, 1867 (MONDAY)
Hippodrome, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The Masked Wrestler will be wrestling vs. the winner of the previous four combatants (the wording is a bit weird, I know, but this is what it says)
OCTOBER 11, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Result Unknown
OCTOBER 13, 1867 (SUNDAY)
Hippodrome, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. Perrier,
Result Unknown
Note:
I'm not too sure about this, but it's possible they had another match a day or two prior to this one.
OCTOBER 14, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. Bonnet le Bœuf,
Result Unknown
OCTOBER 16, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Result Unknown
OCTOBER 18, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Black Mask vs. Red Mask,
Result Unknown
Note:
This is how they’re called in the papers – black mask and red mask. Normally, the papers would just say “The Masked Man” (L'Homme masqué), which is what The Masked Wrestler was usually billed as in the papers. Sometimes they would say "The Masked Wrestler", but most often it was "The Masked Man". The original masked guy had a black mask so the red one is the new one here. Not sure if this is his first appearance.
NOVEMBER 1867
NOVEMBER 13, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. "The Shepherd" Etienne,
Result Unknown
Note:
It's not mentioned if this is the black or red one. I'm assuming black.
NOVEMBER 16, 1867 (SATURDAY)
Arene Athletique, Paris - Rue le Pelletier, Ile-de-France, France
"The Masked Wrestler - A Paris Mystery.
Among the most curious and interesting entertainments to be found in Paris are those which are given at the Arene Athletique. These are performed in a building at the northern end of the Rue Pelletier, and are solely devoted to the art of wrestling. I have been more frequently to this establishment than to any other place of amusement in this city; and when I say this, in connection with what I shall detail, I feel no risk of being convicted of a vulgar predilection.
I visited the Arene Athletique at the first time by a sort of chance; that is to say, for want of somewhere else to go. The occasion was at the end of a dinner at Tortoni's, when it was too late to visit the opera, or to 'assist' at the opening of any of the theaters, which show at half-past seven. My friends and I were, moreover, so languid under the results of a superb cuisine that we had no edge for fine effects, and all that we required was a simple pastime for the eye. While thus disposed, I happened to think of the Arene Athletique. Passing the subject through the rings from my cigar, I dreamily recalled glimpses of a poster which I had seen at various times plastered about the streets, and which always bore the presentment of two lusty Titans, whose mutual object appeared to be to stand each other on the head.
'Here,' said I, 'we have an entertainment exactly suited to our minds. Here is one of the things in Paris, which 'have got to be done,' and which, happily, will exact no labor from our thoughts. 'Besides,' added I, as I rose, 'this is the very place where we may finish our cigars!' The motion was seconded at once; but as my friends and I approached the dull quarter where the arena was situated, he suggested that we would probably find a pretty rough party on the ground. 'Very likely,' was my answer, 'but that does not matter, as nobody behaves rough in Paris.' We saw, however, only gentlemen about the door, and we were agreeably surprised on our entrance to find ourselves in a very neat amphitheater, containing rising rows of seats, around a carpeted arena of about the dimensions of a twenty-four foor ring. As a matter of course, we had bought the highest priced seats, and as these were in front and on a level with the ground, we were sure to have a good view of the contestants. On taking a leisurely survey of the place, we were struck with the fact that the audience was of a remarkably respectable character; and what surprised us most was, that it was liberally interspersed with ladies. We of course directed a very keen examination upon this portion of the company, but it bore out scrutiny and responded in the conviction that these were unmistakably good people. The male portion of the audience, too, were evidently men of cultivation, and we sought without avail to find even common looking people in the room. What puzzled us most was the easy and accustomed air with which the lady visitors came in and took their seats. They sometimes entered alone, but they always seated themselves without embarrassment, and it was evident from the recognition which passed between them and others, that they were habitues of the place. The ushers, too, were females, while presiding at each aisle which let the audience within, stood sergeants de ville, in their cocked hats and swords, aping, as is the fashion with all this class in France, the sphynx-like gravity and bearing of the Emperor.
While yet puzzling myself with the unexpected composition of the company, a very gentlemanly person in full evening dress, stepped into the arena and proclaimed the opening of the performance, in the shape of a combat between Monsieur St. Marier and Monsieur Paudine. Immediately upon the announcement, two men, with the exception of narrow breech-cloths, were entirely naked, entered the ring and made their obeisance to the audience. There was no reception given them; no demonstration or expression of any sort. There was merely a lively evidence of curiosity, as the company scrutinized their points, similar to what is exhibited by spectators on a race course, when the horses are brought out to start.
The men walked around the ring for two or three minutes, basking in the public admiration, then facing each other, quickly rushed together and made a succession of rapid efforts to heave each other down. Their style of wrestling is entirely different from ours, the combatants not being allowed to take hold below the waist, while any use of the legs for the purpose of a trip is rigorously ruled a foul. The result of this style is consequently a development of main strength rather than of science, for the whole man must be either lifted by a 'lock,' which may be taken around the chest or neck, or be wrenched down to the earth by superior force. Every muscle of the man is thus brought into play, and whatever there is of power in the human frame must come to the surface for the study of the looker-on. As the gladiators strove together you could, at times, hear their very joints crack within them, and it was no unusual to see one of them thrown feet upward in the air, for an apparently inevitable landing on the head. By great adroitness, however, the combatant thus handled generally managed to squirm in his descent so as to strike the ground obliquely, and then by a quick use of his feet to prevent himself from being turned upon the back. To be cast in that way constitutes a throw; but it must be fair and square, and prone upon the back for its whole length, and not simply a mere touching of the shoulders, to be conclusive. When a contest was thus brought to a termination, the audience reward the conqueror by a light clapping of hands, much in the style of other applause, and if both were deemed to have acquitted themselves remarkably well, victor and vanquished would be called back for a repetition of their approbation. We soon took a deep interest in these contests. They were evidently honest struggles; and as the size of the combatants enlarged with every new couple, there was a corresponding growth to our excitement. The fourth combat was between a very hirsute Ajax of the name of Gascoigne and a negro of a deep chocolate color, who was announced as Monsieur James. The former was one of the ugliest men extant, but the latter was the finest specimen of physical beauty I have ever seen either in life or marble. He stood full six feet high, and had that wedge like form from his shoulders down, which distinguishes the Appolo Belvidere. He was without a fault from crown to toe, and his head and neck were carried with a Roman dignity. Even his features were regular, being free from the offensive central protrusion of the negro facial angle, and it was with difficulty I could persuade myself he was not a Moor. Nevertheless I was assured he was a negro, hailing from Philadelphia. A buzz of admiration went through the house as this fellow walked around the ring in conscious grandeur. It was evident that he was a favorite; and it was clear, also, that his ill-favored antagonist recognized that fact by yielding him plenty of time for his conceit. A keen observer, however, who studied the hairy monster closely, might have detected his lips a lurking sneer, which seemed to say: 'Oh, take your fill of this black beauty now, but I shall be thought the best looking man of the two when the combat is over!" It proved to be so, for the negro was vanquished after a long and desperate struggle. Nevertheless he was called back after the ovation which justice was obliged to render the ugly victor, he was pampered with the largest share of applause." - Memphis Public Ledger via a George Wilkes piece in the Spirit of the Times
NOVEMBER 18, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. "The Shepherd" Etienne,
Result Unknown
NOVEMBER 20, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The Masked Wrestler, The Masked Man, "The Shepherd" Etienne and Dubois will be wrestling
Note:
Yes, it specifically says The Masked Wrestler and The Masked Man so two masked guys again.
NOVEMBER 22, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-FRance, France
1 - Red Mask def. Marseille Jr.
2 - Black Mask def. Etienne
NOVEMBER 25, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. Faouet,
Result Unknown
Note:
Also featured the return of Fraissinet.
It's also said this is the return of Faouet.
NOVEMBER 29, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"M. Polo, the editor of the Lune, a publication in which Gill's inimitable caricatures have appeared for some time, was this day sentenced by the great Midas of the press, President Delesvaux, to two months' imprisonment and a fien of 600fr for a sketch published on Nov. 3, representing diplomacy as a "masked wrestler." The joke, which not one in a thousand can have understood owes its point to the fact that a man of muscle wearing a mask lately appeared in a horse circus and challenged all the world to wrestle with him. The judgment of the court, in addition to fine and imprisonment, orders that the Lune shall cease to appear. The Corsaire, a new publication, which had become very popular, was suppressed yesterday. It is not pretended that either of these prints, so severely treated, contained anything seditious or libelous. They are condemned solely because they are held to have treated of 'political' subjects without being authorized as political journals. Nobody can define what is 'politics,' and the law comes to this that the government is the sole judge. These and many other prosecutions yet pending are some of the first fruits of that 'energetic repression' which the Emperor's speech promised should accompany the coming 'liberal' laws." - London Daily News
"Apart the sitting of the Senate, the only fact of the interest to-day is the trial and condemnation of a clever illustrated satirical paper - La Lune. About three weeks ago it published a caricature, a sketch representing the masked wrestler, who throws all his opponents at the arena in the Rue Lepelletir, and cleverly insinuated that his opponent was the 'black man,' i.e., the clerical party being overthrown by the Liberals. This has been construed into 'treating political matters without authorization.' The proprietor and editor of the paper, M. Talo, has been sentenced to 600 francs fine, and one month's imprisonment, and in addition, La Lune is to be suppressed." - London Evening Standard
NOVEMBER 1867
NOVEMBER 13, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. "The Shepherd" Etienne,
Result Unknown
Note:
It's not mentioned if this is the black or red one. I'm assuming black.
NOVEMBER 16, 1867 (SATURDAY)
Arene Athletique, Paris - Rue le Pelletier, Ile-de-France, France
"The Masked Wrestler - A Paris Mystery.
Among the most curious and interesting entertainments to be found in Paris are those which are given at the Arene Athletique. These are performed in a building at the northern end of the Rue Pelletier, and are solely devoted to the art of wrestling. I have been more frequently to this establishment than to any other place of amusement in this city; and when I say this, in connection with what I shall detail, I feel no risk of being convicted of a vulgar predilection.
I visited the Arene Athletique at the first time by a sort of chance; that is to say, for want of somewhere else to go. The occasion was at the end of a dinner at Tortoni's, when it was too late to visit the opera, or to 'assist' at the opening of any of the theaters, which show at half-past seven. My friends and I were, moreover, so languid under the results of a superb cuisine that we had no edge for fine effects, and all that we required was a simple pastime for the eye. While thus disposed, I happened to think of the Arene Athletique. Passing the subject through the rings from my cigar, I dreamily recalled glimpses of a poster which I had seen at various times plastered about the streets, and which always bore the presentment of two lusty Titans, whose mutual object appeared to be to stand each other on the head.
'Here,' said I, 'we have an entertainment exactly suited to our minds. Here is one of the things in Paris, which 'have got to be done,' and which, happily, will exact no labor from our thoughts. 'Besides,' added I, as I rose, 'this is the very place where we may finish our cigars!' The motion was seconded at once; but as my friends and I approached the dull quarter where the arena was situated, he suggested that we would probably find a pretty rough party on the ground. 'Very likely,' was my answer, 'but that does not matter, as nobody behaves rough in Paris.' We saw, however, only gentlemen about the door, and we were agreeably surprised on our entrance to find ourselves in a very neat amphitheater, containing rising rows of seats, around a carpeted arena of about the dimensions of a twenty-four foor ring. As a matter of course, we had bought the highest priced seats, and as these were in front and on a level with the ground, we were sure to have a good view of the contestants. On taking a leisurely survey of the place, we were struck with the fact that the audience was of a remarkably respectable character; and what surprised us most was, that it was liberally interspersed with ladies. We of course directed a very keen examination upon this portion of the company, but it bore out scrutiny and responded in the conviction that these were unmistakably good people. The male portion of the audience, too, were evidently men of cultivation, and we sought without avail to find even common looking people in the room. What puzzled us most was the easy and accustomed air with which the lady visitors came in and took their seats. They sometimes entered alone, but they always seated themselves without embarrassment, and it was evident from the recognition which passed between them and others, that they were habitues of the place. The ushers, too, were females, while presiding at each aisle which let the audience within, stood sergeants de ville, in their cocked hats and swords, aping, as is the fashion with all this class in France, the sphynx-like gravity and bearing of the Emperor.
While yet puzzling myself with the unexpected composition of the company, a very gentlemanly person in full evening dress, stepped into the arena and proclaimed the opening of the performance, in the shape of a combat between Monsieur St. Marier and Monsieur Paudine. Immediately upon the announcement, two men, with the exception of narrow breech-cloths, were entirely naked, entered the ring and made their obeisance to the audience. There was no reception given them; no demonstration or expression of any sort. There was merely a lively evidence of curiosity, as the company scrutinized their points, similar to what is exhibited by spectators on a race course, when the horses are brought out to start.
The men walked around the ring for two or three minutes, basking in the public admiration, then facing each other, quickly rushed together and made a succession of rapid efforts to heave each other down. Their style of wrestling is entirely different from ours, the combatants not being allowed to take hold below the waist, while any use of the legs for the purpose of a trip is rigorously ruled a foul. The result of this style is consequently a development of main strength rather than of science, for the whole man must be either lifted by a 'lock,' which may be taken around the chest or neck, or be wrenched down to the earth by superior force. Every muscle of the man is thus brought into play, and whatever there is of power in the human frame must come to the surface for the study of the looker-on. As the gladiators strove together you could, at times, hear their very joints crack within them, and it was no unusual to see one of them thrown feet upward in the air, for an apparently inevitable landing on the head. By great adroitness, however, the combatant thus handled generally managed to squirm in his descent so as to strike the ground obliquely, and then by a quick use of his feet to prevent himself from being turned upon the back. To be cast in that way constitutes a throw; but it must be fair and square, and prone upon the back for its whole length, and not simply a mere touching of the shoulders, to be conclusive. When a contest was thus brought to a termination, the audience reward the conqueror by a light clapping of hands, much in the style of other applause, and if both were deemed to have acquitted themselves remarkably well, victor and vanquished would be called back for a repetition of their approbation. We soon took a deep interest in these contests. They were evidently honest struggles; and as the size of the combatants enlarged with every new couple, there was a corresponding growth to our excitement. The fourth combat was between a very hirsute Ajax of the name of Gascoigne and a negro of a deep chocolate color, who was announced as Monsieur James. The former was one of the ugliest men extant, but the latter was the finest specimen of physical beauty I have ever seen either in life or marble. He stood full six feet high, and had that wedge like form from his shoulders down, which distinguishes the Appolo Belvidere. He was without a fault from crown to toe, and his head and neck were carried with a Roman dignity. Even his features were regular, being free from the offensive central protrusion of the negro facial angle, and it was with difficulty I could persuade myself he was not a Moor. Nevertheless I was assured he was a negro, hailing from Philadelphia. A buzz of admiration went through the house as this fellow walked around the ring in conscious grandeur. It was evident that he was a favorite; and it was clear, also, that his ill-favored antagonist recognized that fact by yielding him plenty of time for his conceit. A keen observer, however, who studied the hairy monster closely, might have detected his lips a lurking sneer, which seemed to say: 'Oh, take your fill of this black beauty now, but I shall be thought the best looking man of the two when the combat is over!" It proved to be so, for the negro was vanquished after a long and desperate struggle. Nevertheless he was called back after the ovation which justice was obliged to render the ugly victor, he was pampered with the largest share of applause." - Memphis Public Ledger via a George Wilkes piece in the Spirit of the Times
NOVEMBER 18, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. "The Shepherd" Etienne,
Result Unknown
NOVEMBER 20, 1867 (WEDNESDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The Masked Wrestler, The Masked Man, "The Shepherd" Etienne and Dubois will be wrestling
Note:
Yes, it specifically says The Masked Wrestler and The Masked Man so two masked guys again.
NOVEMBER 22, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-FRance, France
1 - Red Mask def. Marseille Jr.
2 - Black Mask def. Etienne
NOVEMBER 25, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France
1 - The Masked Wrestler Vs. Faouet,
Result Unknown
Note:
Also featured the return of Fraissinet.
It's also said this is the return of Faouet.
NOVEMBER 29, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"M. Polo, the editor of the Lune, a publication in which Gill's inimitable caricatures have appeared for some time, was this day sentenced by the great Midas of the press, President Delesvaux, to two months' imprisonment and a fien of 600fr for a sketch published on Nov. 3, representing diplomacy as a "masked wrestler." The joke, which not one in a thousand can have understood owes its point to the fact that a man of muscle wearing a mask lately appeared in a horse circus and challenged all the world to wrestle with him. The judgment of the court, in addition to fine and imprisonment, orders that the Lune shall cease to appear. The Corsaire, a new publication, which had become very popular, was suppressed yesterday. It is not pretended that either of these prints, so severely treated, contained anything seditious or libelous. They are condemned solely because they are held to have treated of 'political' subjects without being authorized as political journals. Nobody can define what is 'politics,' and the law comes to this that the government is the sole judge. These and many other prosecutions yet pending are some of the first fruits of that 'energetic repression' which the Emperor's speech promised should accompany the coming 'liberal' laws." - London Daily News
"Apart the sitting of the Senate, the only fact of the interest to-day is the trial and condemnation of a clever illustrated satirical paper - La Lune. About three weeks ago it published a caricature, a sketch representing the masked wrestler, who throws all his opponents at the arena in the Rue Lepelletir, and cleverly insinuated that his opponent was the 'black man,' i.e., the clerical party being overthrown by the Liberals. This has been construed into 'treating political matters without authorization.' The proprietor and editor of the paper, M. Talo, has been sentenced to 600 francs fine, and one month's imprisonment, and in addition, La Lune is to be suppressed." - London Evening Standard
DECEMBER 1867
DECEMBER 2, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Wrestling matches with Faouet, Marseille Jr. and Dubois
Note:
All three are called the "current heroes" of the wrestling shows at the Athletic Arena.
DECEMBER 6, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Dubois,
Result Unknown
Note:
Called "the final chapter in this bitter rivalry".
DECEMBER 9, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Dubois Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Rsult Unknown
2 - Faouet Vs. Bonnet le Bœuf,
Result Unknown
DECEMBER 23, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Two masked wrestlers and two colossus brothers, nicknamed the infernal wrestlers, will be wrestling tonight
DECEMBER 1867
DECEMBER 2, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Wrestling matches with Faouet, Marseille Jr. and Dubois
Note:
All three are called the "current heroes" of the wrestling shows at the Athletic Arena.
DECEMBER 6, 1867 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Faouet Vs. Dubois,
Result Unknown
Note:
Called "the final chapter in this bitter rivalry".
DECEMBER 9, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Dubois Vs. Marseille Jr.,
Rsult Unknown
2 - Faouet Vs. Bonnet le Bœuf,
Result Unknown
DECEMBER 23, 1867 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
Two masked wrestlers and two colossus brothers, nicknamed the infernal wrestlers, will be wrestling tonight
1868
JANUARY 1868
JANUARY 6, 1868 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The end of the wrestling matches
Notes:
A January 10th article states that the wrestlers from the Athletic Arena are currently touring Belgium and England. They will return to Paris in two months.
JANUARY 31, 1868 (FRIDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"Paris has had its masked horse-women - not a 'pretty horse-breaker' - its masked wrestlers, its masked singers, and, loving mystery, has not its 'masked dogs.'" - Shrewsbury Chronicle
JANUARY 1868
JANUARY 6, 1868 (MONDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The end of the wrestling matches
Notes:
A January 10th article states that the wrestlers from the Athletic Arena are currently touring Belgium and England. They will return to Paris in two months.
JANUARY 31, 1868 (FRIDAY)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
"Paris has had its masked horse-women - not a 'pretty horse-breaker' - its masked wrestlers, its masked singers, and, loving mystery, has not its 'masked dogs.'" - Shrewsbury Chronicle
FEBRUARY 1868
FEBRUARY 7, 1868 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The Masked Man from the Hippodrome will be wrestling without his mask
FEBRUARY 1868
FEBRUARY 7, 1868 (FRIDAY)
Athletic Arena, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
The Masked Man from the Hippodrome will be wrestling without his mask
1869
???? 1869
???? ??, 1869 (????)
Arenes Lepelletier, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - French Middleweight Championship
Mons Victor def. Pierre l'Auvergual
(02:30:00) NEW CHAMPION
1880 (no results)
1881 (no results)
1882
???? 1882
???? ??, 1882 (????)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Carl Abs def. Dom Pedro
2 - Carl Abs def. André Christol
3 - Carl Abs def. Jean Doublier
Ende Hinweise / End Notes:
Could be later than 1882.
???? 1882
???? ??, 1882 (????)
Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Carl Abs def. Dom Pedro
2 - Carl Abs def. André Christol
3 - Carl Abs def. Jean Doublier
Ende Hinweise / End Notes:
Could be later than 1882.
1883 (no results)
1884 (no results)
1885 (no results)
1886
???? 1886
???? ??, 1886 (????)
Cirque D'Hiver, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Carl Abs def. Andre Christol
2 - Carl Abs def. Pierre Rigal
3 - Carl Abs def. Francois Fournier
4 - Carl Abs def. Jean Doublier
1887 (no results)
1888 (no results)
1889
MARCH 1889
MARCH 8, 1889 (FRIDAY)
Promoter: Raoul le Bordelais
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - 100 Francs
Paul Pons "The Giant of Midi" Vs. Felix Bernard,
Result Unknown
2 - August Robinet Vs. Trillat,
Result Unknown
3 - Gambier Jr. Vs. Castex,
Result Unknown
Notes:
Said to be Gambier's debut.
OCTOBER 1889
OCTOBER 22, 1889 (TUESDAY)
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - Paul Pons Vs. Crest,
Result Unknown
2 - Fernand Sabes Vs. Michot,
Result Unknown
3 - Feats of Strength
Featuring Apollon
OCTOBER 25, 1889 (FRIDAY)
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - "The Giant of Midi" Paul Pons Vs. "The King of Force" Apollon,
Result Unknown
OCTOBER 29, 1889 (TUESDAY)
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - Paul Pons Vs. Crest,
Result Unknown
2 - Apollon Vs. Jean-Pierre,
Result Unknown
3 - Fernand Sabes Vs. Michot,
Result Unknown
OCTOBER 1889
OCTOBER 22, 1889 (TUESDAY)
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - Paul Pons Vs. Crest,
Result Unknown
2 - Fernand Sabes Vs. Michot,
Result Unknown
3 - Feats of Strength
Featuring Apollon
OCTOBER 25, 1889 (FRIDAY)
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - "The Giant of Midi" Paul Pons Vs. "The King of Force" Apollon,
Result Unknown
OCTOBER 29, 1889 (TUESDAY)
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - Paul Pons Vs. Crest,
Result Unknown
2 - Apollon Vs. Jean-Pierre,
Result Unknown
3 - Fernand Sabes Vs. Michot,
Result Unknown
NOVEMBER 1889
NOVEMBER ??, 1889 (????)
Cirque D'Hiver, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Carl Abs Vs. Bazola,
Draw
NOVEMBER 2, 1889 (SATURDAY)
Folies Bergare Theatre, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - Part One
Tom Cannon (of America) def. Felix Bernard (of Bordeaux)
Note:
Cannon is listed as the American Champion.
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - "The Giant of Midi" Paul Pons Vs. "The Plowman of Montastruc" Jean-Pierre,
Result Unknown
2 - Crest Vs. Paul le Meunier,
Result Unknown
3 - Mange-Matin Vs. Fernand Sabes,
Result Unknown
NOVEMBER 4, 1889 (MONDAY)
Folies Bergare Theatre, Paris, Ile-de-France, France
1 - French Style - Part Two
Felix Bernard (of Bordeaux) def. Tom Cannon (of America)
Note:
Cannon is listed as the American Champion.
Bordeaux, Gironde, France
1 - Paul Pons Vs. Paul le Mastoc,
Result Unknown
2 - Trillat Vs. Seraphin,
Result Unknown
3 - Astruc the Belgian Vs. The Turk,
Result Unknown
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Unique content strictly for the Professional Wrestling Historical Society.
All research has been completed by #PWHS or by a trusted contributor.
Information came from contemporary newspapers unless otherwise stated.
Results from the France: Pre-1890.
Updated: October 14, 2019.
Editor: Jimmy Wheeler.
Unique content strictly for the Professional Wrestling Historical Society.
All research has been completed by #PWHS or by a trusted contributor.
Information came from contemporary newspapers unless otherwise stated.
Results from the France: Pre-1890.
Updated: October 14, 2019.
Editor: Jimmy Wheeler.
