A CHAMPION RANTED

Evening Post, Volume CXIX, Issue 98, 27 April 1935, Page 23

A CHAMPION RANTED

IN LIGHTWEIGHT DIVISION

The surrendering of the world's professional lightweight boxing champion-, ship by Barney Eoss, who stated recently that he was no longer able to make the 1351b limit, leaves the way open for a new champion to step into the limelight. As the position stands at the moment, however, it will not be a newcomer who will become tlia immediate possessor of the ttile, but a well-tried performer and a former holder of the title, in the person of Tony Canzoneri, who' was dethroned by Ross at Chicago on June 23, 1933. Canzoneri has proved his superiority over a field which includes Frankie Klick, Young Peter Jackson, Sammy Fuller, and Lew Ambers. However, even if he assumes the crown again, it will probably be for only a short period, as this popular and colourful performer is now approaching the autumn of his ring career. Born on November 6, 1905, Canzoneri first came into prominence seven years ago. On February 10, 1928, he defeated Bennie Bass in a fifteen-round contest at the Madison Square Garden, New York, and thereby became the world's featherweight champion. He took the junior welter title in 1931 by twice defeating Jackie "Kid" Berg, of England, the previous claimant to the championship, and had already become the lightweight champion by knocking out Al Singer in the first round of a title bout at New York on November 14, 1930. Canzoneri held the feather title less than a year, losing it to Andre Routis on September 28, 1928, over fifteen rounds at New York. He lost the junior welter crown to Johnny Jadick on January 18, 1932,. at Philadelphia, and the lightweight title to Barney Ross. Though his titles have slipped from him, Canzoneri has established an enviable reputation for his sportsmanship, his acknowledged ability, and his pleasing style of boxing. OTHER CANDIDATES. Next to Canzoneri in the ranking list comes Frankie Klick, of San Francisco, whose last battle with Canzoneri was a ring classic. Imbued with the fighting spirit, Klick may yet reach to top of the ladder, his progress being facilitated by Ross's inability to make the weight and Canzoneri's probable retirement in the near future. Young Peter Jackson, the Loi Angeles negro, has fought some. disappointing battles, but is recognised as a performer of merit, particularly in his home State. Sammy Fuller, of Boston, is about on a par with the Californian boy. Lew Ambers is also a likely claimant to high honours, and gave some impressive displays last year. KILBIRNIE WRESTLING CLUB The Kilbirnie Amateur Wrestling Club, which held a number of successful ■ gymnasium nights last season in aid of the club's, funds, will again adopt the same policy this season, holding the functions monthly. The club considers that the special nights help to keep the amateurs keen. The opening night will be held next Tuesday.