WRESTLER IN COURT

Southland Times, Issue 21822, 27 September 1932, Page 5

WRESTLER IN COURT

BREACH OF CONTRACT ALLEGED. SUED BY SPORTING CLUB. (Per United Press Association.) Wellington, September 26. Bull Montana, American wrestler and ex-movie star, appeared in the Magistrate’s Court to-day as the defendant in a claim by the National Sporting Club, Incorporated, for an alleged breach of contract. The club maintained that some months ago, after negotiations with Al . Haft, defendant’s manager in America, transportation was arranged for Montana, who arrived at Auckland on August 15. The terms accepted by Montana were contained in a cable which offered him five matches, the wrestlers to take half the gate, train and boat fare to be paid prior to his arriving. Montana had agreed with the Auckland Wrestling Association to wrestle Kaplan on August 20 and it was alleged that this constituted a breach of contract. Montana wrestled Demetral at Wellington on August 22 and arrangements were made for him to appear against Thompson on the 29th. Thompson was not available, however, and Koolman was substituted. Montana at first agreed to the substitution, but later refused to wrestle. Plaintiffs claimed £lOl 17/3 special damages and a further £9B general damages for a breach of contract. The case is proceeding. Montana, in evidence, said he advised the programme provided matches with Thompson, Walker and Mamos. Thompson said he never agreed with the Show Association to wrestle Montana. Mr Page reserved his decision.