BOXING, VERSUS JU-JITSU.

The noble art- of self-defence has fallen into disrepute of late, because of the decadence of a manly sport into mere performances for purses by trained "bruisers" —and black ones at that — but th£re are still many people who defend boxing as a useful exercise for youths. It is doubtful, however, whether ju-jitsu, the Japanese style of scientifically overcoming an opponent, T-v-ill not take the place of boxing as a ■means of self-defence. "I reckon I ca£i beat either ' Sam' McVea or ' Sam' L%gford in an hour," said Professor Stevenson, the Sydney ju-jitsu expert, the other day. The professor is very keen on meeting one of the- two coloured boxers, as he is convinced of his ability to show that boxing, even in the hands of such capable exponents, is not the equal of the Japanese art as a means of self -defence. Not being a moneyed man, he cannot talk in thousands', but he is prepared to wager either McVea or Langford a modest £150 that in 12 bouts of five minutes each he can compel his opponent to cry enough seven times. "They are greatj men at their own game," said'the pro-' •:'fessor, • " but I have maintained ' all. along, and am of the same opinion still, that with ju-jitsu I can heat any boxer, living. I.accounted for Bill 'Squires and others, and I think I'can do the same with-either of these men- I will come forward in ordinary costume. I will place no restrictions on them or make >niy impossible stipulations. The boxc-r will appear after his custom,' wearing the police regulation gloves. [.will lodge the money which will belong to the man who accepts my challenge immediately I fail to win seven, of the twelve* bouts. Of course if lam knocked out I am beaten, but I am prepared to take that risk." It is a fair challenge, 'and it will be interesting to see .if it is accepted.