John Reid McGowan

John Reid "Gentleman Jack" McGowan (4 October 1872 – 18 July 1912) was an Australian boxing champion.

McGowan first entered the ring in October 1889, when at Albury he drew with Mick Colles in a 15 rounds match.

On the retirement of Peakes, McGowan fought Harry Perry for the championship, and won in 14 rounds.

He came back after a few years and fought Bob Greenshields in 1909 to win the lightweight championship of Australia.

Another source of income for McGowan when not boxing was appearing and touring with the Bland Holt Dramatic Company.

[2][3][4] When boxing commitments allowed, McGowan played Australian rules football with VFA club South Melbourne (Now known as the Sydney Swans) during the club's successful late 1880s to mid 1890s period, including at least one Premiership team in 1890.

Two weeks earlier he had sustained slight concussion of the brain by colliding with one of his pupils and had been advised to rest.