WRESTLING

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 80, Issue 135, 9 June 1937, Page 3

WRESTLING

BLOMFIELD AND KIRILENKO SPECIAL CHALLENGE BOUT OPERA HOUSE, TO-NIGHT Great interest has been aroused bj the announcement that Matros Kirilenko, the Cossack wrestler, is to be “Lofty’’ Blomfield’s opponent in the professional contest at Wanganui this evening. The first meeting of the pair resulted in one of the most sensational matches ever seen in Wellington and the decision in Blomfield’s favour proved highly controversial. This match should prove to be one of the best ever staged in this country, and Wanganui fans arc not slow io recognise the fact, for the demand for seats is exceptionally heavy, and extra seating accommodation is being provided. Kirilenko is one of the most interesting ring personalities who has ever come to New Zealand. After fighting for the White Russians against the Reds he began to make a living as a strong man in a circus in Poland. He was then initiated into Gracco-Roman wrestling and, before long, had won a number of professional tournaments in Europe. He eventually became the European champion and then attracted the notice of Jack Curley, the well-known American promoter and was given a two-year contract to wrestle in the States. Adapting himself to the all-in style he did so well that during the period of his contract he had 68 bouts, of which he won 62 with only two losses. These were against Jim Londos, the world champion, and “Strangler” Lewis. Kirilenko has held the South American championship, and, in addition to the successes which he has achieved, he has made a big name for himself by the colourful style of his wrestling. He is nearly 6ft. in height, weighs 16st. and is a perfectly built athlete who has both strength and speed. Blomfield’s visit, will be popular with the local crowd which will certainly be the biggest, seen round a local ring. There will be a series of amateur preliminaries.