Ep 17. The Man who was Never Licked

Death Valley Days is a western television series that aired from 1952 to 1970. It tells the stories of the adventures and hardships faced by the pioneers who settled in the American West during the 19th century. Each episode features a different story based on real-life events.

In season 5 episode 17, titled "The Man who was Never Licked," viewers are taken on a journey through the life of a man named John L. Sullivan. Sullivan was a legendary boxer in the late 1800s, known for his remarkable physical strength and fighting abilities. He was a household name in America and often referred to as "The Great John L."

The episode begins with Sullivan on the road to a new fight in a nearby town. Along the way, he comes across a group of young boys who are trying to catch a wild horse. Sullivan takes it upon himself to help the boys, impressing them with his strength and skill. The boys are in awe of Sullivan, and they begin to follow him as he continues on his journey.

As Sullivan arrives in town for his fight, he is met with hostility from the townspeople. They view him as a ruthless fighter who is only interested in fame and fortune. Sullivan is determined to prove them wrong and win the fight. Meanwhile, the boys who followed him on the journey continue to watch his every move.

The day of the fight arrives, and Sullivan steps into the ring with his opponent. The fight is brutal, with both men taking heavy hits. Sullivan's opponent is determined to knock him out, but Sullivan refuses to go down. In the end, Sullivan emerges victorious, winning the hearts of the townspeople and the respect of his opponent.

After the fight, Sullivan is approached by the boys who followed him earlier. They express their admiration for him and ask him to teach them how to fight. Sullivan agrees and begins training the boys in boxing. Over time, the boys become skilled fighters themselves, and they look up to him as a mentor and a father figure.

The rest of the episode focuses on Sullivan's relationship with the boys and his struggles as a famous boxer. He continues to fight in matches, but he also devotes his time to training the boys and helping them in any way he can. Through his interactions with the boys, Sullivan learns the importance of compassion and the true meaning of being a role model.

The episode concludes with a touching moment between Sullivan and the boys. He tells them that he is proud of their progress and grateful for their friendship. The boys, in turn, express their gratitude for his guidance and support.

Overall, "The Man who was Never Licked" is a heartwarming and inspiring episode of Death Valley Days. It showcases the life of a legendary figure and explores the themes of compassion, resilience, and mentorship. It is a must-watch for fans of westerns and anyone who appreciates a good story of triumph over adversity.