One of the premiere lightweights of the 19th century, McAuliffe immigrated from Ireland to the United States at a young age, settling with his family in Maine.
He began fighting in 1884, during the bare knuckle era. In 1886, he captured the American lightweight title by knocking out Billy Frazier in the 17th round. A protege of Jack "The Nonpareil" Dempsey, McAuliffe claimed the vacant world title by stopping Canadian Harry Gilmore in 1887. That match set up a confrontation against English champion Jem Carney.
Fighting in the United States on November 16, 1887, McAuliffe and Carney battled to a 72-round draw. The bout ended controversially when American fans stormed the ring after McAuliffe was dropped for the third time in the fight. When order was restored, both pugilists exited claiming they were world champion.
In 1889, McAuliffe battled to a 64-round draw with Billy Myer but managed to defeat Myer in two subsequent bouts. The final Myer win came in New Orleans on the Carnival of Champions card held September 5, 6, and 7 in 1892. On that card, George Dixon retained his featherweight crown but John L. Sullivan lost the heavyweight title to James J. Corbett.
McAuliffe beat Young Griffo in 1894, retired shortly after, made a comeback in 1896, and retired for good after his 1897 battle against Philadelphia Tommy Ryan.
Born: Mar. 24, 1866
Died: Nov. 5, 1937