Standing 5 feet 8 ¹/₂ inches and weighing 155 pounds, Sayers was known as the Little Wonder and the Napoleon of the Prize Ring. He often fought much bigger opponents, yet lost only one bout in his career—to Nat Langham in 61 rounds, on Oct. 18, 1853. His most important victory was scored against the 185-pound Bill Perry (the Tipton Slasher) in 10 rounds, on June 16, 1857.

For the international championship, Sayers fought John C. Heenan (Heenan, John C.) of the United States at Farnborough, Hampshire, Eng., on April 17, 1860. Although seven years older than Heenan and 40 pounds lighter, Sayers was made a 2 to 1 betting favourite. After 42 rounds (more than two hours), when Sayers had injured his right arm and Heenan seemed to be winning, the crowd broke into the ring. The fight was declared a draw, and both men were given championship belts. Sayers then retired from the ring, and the British raised £3,000 (about $15,000) by public subscription for him.