Final answer:
Theodore Roosevelt was the president who held boxing matches in the East Room of the White House, reflecting his passion for physical fitness and a vigorous lifestyle.
Step-by-step explanation:
The president who used to hold boxing matches in the East Room was Theodore Roosevelt. Known for his exuberant personality and range of interests, Roosevelt practiced boxing and judo as part of his passion for staying physically fit.
His enjoyment of boxing was so great that he would often spar with partners in the White House, a testament to his rugged and vigorous lifestyle.
Roosevelt's presidency (1901-1909) came long before the era of televised presidential debates, such as the one between Gerald Ford and Jimmy Carter, and the era of Las Vegas' dominance in boxing promotions.