Normally, I could hit hard enough, as anyone who studied my fights might have known. But the impression was that I was essentially defensive, the very reverse of a killer, the prize fighter who read books, even Shakespeare.

My own ambition in the ring had always been skillful boxing, speed and defense - on the order of Mike Gibbons.

Upon awakening in the morning, I wondered if the proceedings of the night before had been a dream. It was hard to believe that I was the world's heavyweight champion.

But I do say that, if you will regularly devote 15 minutes a day, preferably before breakfast, for 60 days to the simple set of exercises that I devised for conditioning men in the navy, I guarantee that you will enjoy increased physical buoyancy and mental vigor.

The man who has allowed his body to deteriorate cuts a pitiful figure - chest collapsed, stomach protruding.

Exercise should be regarded as tribute to the heart.

I've seen Dempsey fight and I was impressed with his lack of knowledge.

Never eat less than four hours before boxing. Then eat only lightly.

A boxer must exercise and develop every part of his body.

I did six years of planning to win the championship from Jack Dempsey.

A concave chest means that your diaphragm is sagging.

Ever since boyhood I've made a religion of keeping in shape by regular, conscientious exercise.

Handball, swimming, running, jumping, basketball, and boxing were as much a part of me as breathing.