WRESTLING

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 145, 20 June 1936, Page 7

WRESTLING

iTO-NIGHT’S BIG PROFESSIONAL CONTEST KRUSE v. RUSSELL THRILLING BOUT SHOULD RESULT The Wanganui Wrestling Association are to be complimented upon their efforts in securing the services of wrestlers of the calibre of Bob Kruse. Few men hrve been as early sought after by wrestling authorities in New Zealand as has Kruse, who will be making his first appearance before local audiences in his match with Cowboy “Rebel” Russell, at the Opera House to-night. Kruse has been beaten by only two title-holders, Jim Browning and “Strangler” Lewis (when he met them for the world championship;, but has drawn with Ed Don George and has been unable to induce men like Londos, O’Mahoney, and Lopez, to enter the ring against him. Among the men he has beaten are Steve Savage, Dan Koloff, Jack Patterson, Len Hall, and Freddie Meyer. He also took a decision off George Walker at the end of JUL’S before the latter left for New Zealand. His qualities have long been recognised in New Zealand and attempts have been made for some years to induce him to come here, but without success until this season when opposition of the quality to which he is accustomed is available. In his first match in New Zealand he met Russell, and won a great bout by two falls to one. Russell was naturally anxious for a return bout and he feels confident of doing better against the big Portland farmer next time out. It will be the first appearance in Wanganui of the lowa cowboy who has given consistently good displays in other parts of the Dominion. He has an excellent record and is a highly colourful performer. Kruse wrestles on aggressive lines and provides plenty of thrills for the spectators. There are bound to be fireworks when Russell steps into action as he has a reputation, even in America, of being something of a wrestling “outlaw.” He has great strength, which he developed on the cattle ranges, and knows the wrestling game inside out. This match should provide plenty of thrills, and the huge crowd which is expected to be present, will be kept on their toes for a good hour and a-half. The amateur bouts should be a draw-card in themselves for a team of Turakina lads are to try conclusions with the local talent. Plans will he at J. Goss and Son’s until 12 (noon), and at the Opera House from 4 till 5.30 this afternoon.