Short answers, pulled from the story.
Archaeological frescoes from Akrotiri on the island of Thera show Minoan youths boxing around 1500 BC. These images represent the earliest known evidence for the use of gloves in combat sports.
The Greeks later introduced boxing to the Olympic Games in 688 BC as part of these commemorative traditions. This event became a significant athletic competition within early classical period festivals.
From the time of the Iliad until approximately 500 BC, fighters wore himantes made from ox hide thongs. These straps wrapped around hands and knuckles numerous times to provide protection.
Boxing remained extremely popular until Emperor Theodosius banned it around 400 CE due to excessive violence. The sport's eventual prohibition stemmed directly from its lethal nature rather than lack of popularity.
Diagoras of Rhodes achieved legendary status through victories that earned him widespread acclaim. Theagenes of Thasos won numerous titles before dying shortly after his final competition.