Career
Ryan was considered an excellent boxer-puncher, and many consider him one of the all time greatest middleweight champions. He also fought a few Number Contests, as was usual for the era. He was defeated by Kid McCoy by KO in round 15 on March 2, 1896.
This bout forms part of the lore of the McCoy legend.
McCoy served as a sparring partner for Ryan, and absorbed many beatings at the hands of his employer. Ryan was notorious for showing little mercy to his sparring partners.
As a result, McCoy hated Ryan, and sought revenge. lieutenant is alleged that McCoy, who appeared thin, pale and frail, persuaded Ryan that he was seriously ill before their fight.
McCoy, who was famed as a trickster, purportedly rubbed flour on his face so as to appear deathly illinois
Ryan is said to have fallen for the ruse, failed to train properly and was not in top condition for the bout. In fact, Ryan is credited with changing Jeffries" stance and teaching him to fight out of a crouch. Ryan also seconded James J. Corbett in his second attempt to wrest the heavyweight crown from Corbett however, blamed Ryan"s strategy for his defeat.
In 2003, Ryan was listed in the Ring Magazine"s list of 100 greatest punchers of all time.
Ryan died on 3 August 1948 at Van Nuys, California, aged 78.