Wrestling.

Thames Star, Volume LXVI, Issue 19726, 5 June 1936, Page 2

Wrestling.

KRUSE V. RUSSELL TUES DAY’S ENCOUNTER. THRILLING CLASH EXPECTED. For the purpose of giving the widely popular sport of wrestling a good start in Thames it would have been difficult, if not impossible, to have arranged a more attractive match from every point of view than one between Bob Kruse and Cowboy (“Rebel”) Russell. These two men are to meet in the local ring in a professional heavyweight match on Tuesday night, the occasion marking Kruse’s first appearance in New Zealand. Usually visiting matmen appear first at the large cities, but it was because of the desire to place the sport on a strong footing at this centre from the outset, that Kruse was selected as Russell’s opponent for the local match.

Kruse has a reputation that is world-wide, having established his class against the best men in the game. He specialises mainly in wrist locks, which he uses in electrifying fashion, but he has an allround equipment of holds equal to the best. He recently returned to America after a trip to South Africa, whero he showed himself to be undoubtedly the finest wrestler that has ever visited that country. For some years efforts have been made to bring him to the Dominion, but without success until this year. Cowboy Russell is an extremely colourful performer, being noted for his skill, speed and strength. He has made himself very popular all over the Dominion, and has proved capable of holding, his own with the best.

Among Kruse’s lengthy list of victims are such men as Karl Sarpolis, Hardy Kruskamp, A 1 Ivarasick (well-known in New Zealand), Joe Gotch and Demetral. Russell also claims a win over Sarpolis, and has defeated Dr. Len Hall, Kalmiloff and Man Mountain Dean, who weighs in at 22st.

The amateur bouts should produce clever, scientific wrestling, and patrons are assured of a thrilling night’s sport.