BOXING.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXIII, 17 March 1926, Page 9

BOXING.

THURSDAY'S TOURNAMENT. WILLIAMS ARRIVES. Merv. Williams, who is to figure as one of the principals in the Timaru Boxing Association’s big contest at the Theatre Royal to-morrow night, arrived from AVellington yesterday morning, accompanied by his protege, Hector McDonald, and last evening in Harry Gunn’s gymnasium created a most favourable iinpression on the large attendance of enthusiasts. The popular verdict at the conclusion of the turn was that the Australian middleweight is the most formidable opponent Parker has been matched to meet in Timaru. AVith the Dominion champion also in such excellent shape, the bout promises to fully compensate for the disappointments experienced by the Association and its last season. AVilliams looks to he “in the pink,” and lie states that his looks do not belie his condition, as he could not be in better order for the task confronting him. In his school at AVellington he has indulged in regular boxing with pupils, and in addition has had the advantage of daily bouts with'what he claims to be the best hunch of sparring partners ever at the disposal of a boxer in the Dominion. His studio has been the headquarters of overseas ringman under engagement to various Associations, and AVilliams has finished off his preparation with bouts with such men as Eugene Volaire, another Frenchman in Dick Elmour, C. Purdy, the Filipino Jnmito, Leo AVax, and P. Charles. Tho Australian crack does not underestimate his opponent, but is in such splendid condition that he is quietly confident of success. If he fails, it will not he due to any physical shortcoming, AVilliams expects to strip at about 11.6, about 21bs below Parker’s probable weight. The visitor brings with him the reputation of being always a trier, but lie has so much at stake in the present match that he makes no secret of the fact that he intends to put up the fight of his life. Before coming to New Zealand he nursed a grievance, against Stewart, the previous holder, and Collins, present holder, of tho middleweight championship of the Commonwealth, who appeared to avoid a meeting with ■him. AVilliams’s idea is that a victory over Parker will create a public demand ,in Australia for matches with Cbllins and Len Johnston, and he will be striving to-mor-row night for a chance to gain fame and fortune. AVhen in Timaru previously, AVilliams, a native of Queensland, felt the , cold rather keenly, but he has become acclimatised, and is so enamoured of this country that he not only intends to make his home here, but is endeavouring to induce his parents also to settle in the Dominion. If fie achieves his ambition and secures engagements at the big Australian stadiums, he states that his absences will be only temporary, as he has plans for the extension of his Wellington physical culture school which he will conduct with the assistance of McDonald.