WRESTLING

Otago Daily Times, Issue 23202, 28 May 1937, Page 11

WRESTLING

BLOMFIELD VERSUS SPELLMAN

Great interest from the wrestlers', as well as from the public's, point of view attaches to the return meeting of Lofty Blomfield and John Spellman, both of whom are regarded as amongst the topline men of this season. The competition is particularly keen in view of the approaching visit of Dean Detton, the present world's champion, as both Blomfield and Spellman have designs on the title and the result of their match will have an important bearing as to which man is likely to receive preference for a title bout with Detton. Interviewed in Wellington concerning his match with Blomaeld, Spellman said that it was wise to wrestle carefully until a man struck his form and until he could fully estimate the worth of unknown opponents, but he freely admitted that he would be obliged to resort to every known trick of the trade in order to try and gain the decision over Blomfield. In their first meeting the men wrestled to a draw, but now that Spellman has recovered from the effects of the sea journey he feels that he is in better condition and can give a better account of himself. Blomfield is in excellent condition at the moment and makes no secret of his ambition to sweep all opposition from the path to championship honours. Lofty, who is ranked amongst the first 10 heavy-weights in the world, needs no introduction to Dunedin patrons, who are fully aware of his capabilities. Spellman has an unbeaten record in New Zealand and a big overseas reputation to maintain, as he has defeated Dan Koloff, Dick Shikat and Gus Sonnenberg amongst numerous others during his campaigns in Boston, where he wrestled with great success for several years. Spellman, in addition to his very punishing repertoire of holds, ranks with Stein as the most devastating flying-tackier in the game, whilst his forearm jolts, delivered with the front of the forearm with a swinging motion, have accounted for many opponents. It is this formidable opponent who is pitted against Lofty in what can be regarded as the New Zealander's first match in his series of bids for the world title, and it will be obvious what Blomfield intends to do to Spellman to gain the decision if hecan. Spellman also has a reputation for absorbing all the punishment meted out to him and of retaliating should the occasion demand it, so that the match will undoubtedly prove one of the best of the season. Further particulars are advertised.

BLOMFIELD BEATS M'INTYRE (Per United Press Association) PALMERSTON N„ May 27. Blomfield beat Don M'lntyre before a capacity house. M'lntyre, who secured a sensational fall within half a minute in the first round, was unable to continue after Blomfield had equalised with an octopus clamp in the fifth round, the bout being awarded to the New Zealander with the American still on his knees in his corner. It was fast and exciting wrestling all the way, and M'lntyre got his fall after a series of flying tackles.