One of the most popular fighters of the 1920s, the French Canadian was born Ovila Chapdelaine in Saint-François-du-Lac, Quebec, Canada.

His parents moved their family to the United States on August 15, 1904, where they initially lived in Holyoke, Massachusetts before settling in Bridgeport, Connecticut.

The two fought until the fourth round, when Delaney again fired an irresistible right hand that knocked Flowers senseless.

Delaney was rewarded with a title shot against light heavyweight champion Berlanbach, in a 15-round fight, co-promoted by Roderick James "Jess" McMahon and Tex Rickard.

In an outstanding display of courage, perseverance and fortitude, Berlanbach upset Delaney by winning a 15-round decision.

He was matched against Jimmy Maloney, a journeyman heavyweight contender Delaney was expected to defeat handily.

Delaney always prepared for fights in secluded training camps, in idyllic settings where no liquor was allowed on the premises.

Apparently intoxicated to the point of virtual paralysis, Delaney stood staring at his corner as Sharkey came across the ring.

The fight ended with Delaney on his hands and knees, crawling around the ring like a man looking for a lost button, while the referee counted him out.