 Sullivan claimed Hyer's status as a champion in 1851, though not all present day boxing historians recognize his reign as heavyweight champion.For a purse of $2000, before a crowd of nearly 4,500, on 12 October, 1853, Sullivan fought John Morrissey at Boston Corner.Boston Corner was then in Berkshire County, Massachusetts, but out of reach of its authorities, and thus a good location for the illegal match.