18 April — English champion Harry Broome defeats Henry Orme in the 31st round at Brandon to retain his title.[1]
August — a scheduled bout between Broome and former champion William Perry does not come off; Broome has to pay forfeit and Perry claims the title, but his claim is not recognised and Broome retains the English Championship until 1856.[1]
12 October — Yankee Sullivan and John Morrissey meet to decide the Heavyweight Championship of America at Boston Corners, New York. According to reports, Morrissey is "badly beaten" but Sullivan leaves the ring after the 37th round and ignores the call of "time". As a result, the referee awards the fight to Morrissey, who holds the American Championship until 1859. Sullivan does not fight again but is subsequently arrested in San Francisco and sent to jail.[2]