WRESTLING

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 132, 5 June 1937, Page 7

WRESTLING

BLOMFIELD AND KIRILENKO SPECIAL CHALLENGE BOUT RACE NIGHT ATTRACTION The wrestling bout at the Opera House next Wednesday (race night) will be between Matros Kirilenko, the colourful Kuban Cossack, and Lofty Blomfield, and is the outcome of a special challenge by Kirilenko after the decision went against him in Wellington last Monday night, and stated that he desired a return bout as early as possible. Kirilenko has given some outstanding performances since he arrived to join the Dominion Union’s men and the bout with Blomfield last Monday was his first defeat, his New Zealand record including a draw against Sammy Stein. Blomfield’s many followers will again be on hand to see whether he can again handle the fiery Russian. Kirilenko has been in his time a soldier, circus strong man, and Graeco-Roman and catch-as-catch can wrestling champion. He started wrestling as a professional about ten years ago, and was a prominent figure in European wrestling until, in 1931, he came under the notice of Jack Curley, the well-known New York promoter, who was on a visit to Europe in search of fresh talent. Curley signed him up for a twoyear contract, and took him to the States, where he proved to be on outstanding success. He had only two losses in two years, and his displays were of the type that appeals strongly to wrestling patrons- Kirilenko weighs 16 stone, is splendidly built, and is a fast and aggressive wrestler. Preferential booking is at J. Goss and Son’s.