PUGILISM.

Taranaki Herald, Volume XXXVIII, Issue 8664, 28 December 1889, Page 2

PUGILISM.

FIGHT BETWEEN SLAVIN AND SMITH. Slavin had the advantage of Smith throughout the fight, and he fought in the fairest and most plucky manner, driving Smith into his corner every round. The mob kicked and struck Slavin throughout, ignoring his appeals for fair play. Tho referee declared that Slavin had not been allowed fair play, and possibly still will award the fight to him. A representative of the English Sportsman who was present at the fight expressed himself disgusted at the tactics indulged in by the supporters of Smith. In referring to tho assault oa Slavin in the recent fight the Sportsman considers it incredible that men who have a drop of Christian blood in their veins should support Smith and his gang of ruffians, who were armed with knives and revolvers. The Sporting Life considers that Slavin's fair and plucky conduct throughout the contest has pinnacled him as a hero. Mr " Abington," Smith chief backer, towards the end of the fight wore the colours of the Australian, as a protest against violence. A testimonial is being prepared for presentation to Slavin for his win, and when he arrived opposite the Sportsman office he was cheered by thousands. The members of the Pelican Club in London have suspended Fleming, who holds the dual capacity of Smith's manager and master of ceremonies for the Pelican Club. The Club recognise Slavin as the champion of England, and will present him with a belt and a purse of sovereigns. Slavin on his return to London received an ovation at the hands of the members of the Stock Exchange, who subscribed a, purse of 500 sovereigns for him.