This book tells the remarkable story of an Irishman whose exploits in the bare-knuckle ring made him into an early 19th century folk hero. His victories over highly regarded English opponents came in the wake of several armed rebellions and were seen as symbolizing his country’s fight for freedom from Westminster rule. A monument celebrating his triumph against George Cooper on the Curragh of Kildare stands in Donnelly’s Hollow, named in his honour, alongside his carved-out footprints.    Donnelly’s life was less than exemplary outside the ring: a heavy drinker, he never made any profit from his four Dublin pubs, and his sexual adventures led to him paying the price for ‘chasing petticoats’ while supposedly training for a fight in England.    In 2008, Donnelly was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame. “Myler's book isn't just a history, it's also a social document that brings to life the political climate of the time and Donnelly's place in it.” - Irish Voice  “A fascinating and entertaining biography of this unique unsung hero of history.” -The Midwest Book Review