My guest on this episode is author and boxing historian Mike Silver. We talk about Mike’s new book, "The Night The Referee Hit Back - Memorable Moments from the World of Boxing". It’s a compilation of articles and interviews that Mike’s done over the years that is really captivating and provocative.

We discuss Mike’s background and how he had the chance to train alongside Emile Griffith and Ingemar Johansson at the iconic Stillman’s Gym in mid-town Manhattan in the late-50’s early 60’s. Mike gives a great account of the history of that gym and its significance.

We also spoke about the history of the governance of the sport. How there was generally only one world champion per division for decades. And how tournaments of contenders fighting to determine a new champion in divisions where the title was vacant were a common occurrence throughout the 1920s through the late 1960s.

Finally, Mike gives boxing fans a great list of fights from boxing’s Golden Age that demonstrate the skills and technique that may be missing from today's fighters.

It was a great conversation - Hope you enjoy it.