Pygmē: Ancient Greek Boxing's Rules, Techniques and Olympic Champions Reconsidered

Pygmē made its debut in the Olympic Games in 688 BC and was held at Olympia for more than a millennium, with champion records extending to AD 369. A fresco from Akrotiri, dating back to the 17th–16th century BC, depicts boxers, showcasing the sport's existence for over 3,500 years. Its origins are often attributed to Theseus. Boxing was also featured in the Pythian, Nemean, and Isthmian Games, as well as in funeral contests like those for Patroclus in the Iliad. An engraving from Olympia in the 6th century BC prohibited the killing of opponents. Fighters utilized leather himantes, and padded gloves (sphairai) were introduced in the 4th century BC. Noteworthy champions included Tissandros of Sicily, Diagoras of Rhodes, Glaukos, and Theagenes of Thasos.