JEFFRIES IN FIGHTING FORM.

New Zealand Illustrated Sporting & Dramatic Review, Volume XVIII, Issue 1047, 31 March 1910, Page 12

JEFFRIES IN FIGHTING FORM.

Jeffries is reported to be leading a model life. On account of the great number of friends he boasts in the various cities in the States, he has been banqueted and feted a good deal, but they say he allows the others to partake of the blood of the, grapes, and quenches his thirst with mineral waters. While he was in San Francisco some friends arranged an automobile excursion to the beach

resorts, and they say that wine flowed like water. The big fellow, however, could not be induced to sip any of the “vintage.” He is evidently determined to hew to the line of right living in order to improve his chances in getting away with the big negro. In a recent interview Jeffries said: “This thing of taking off weight is a joke. I was down to 218 in Germany, and now I’ve gone up to 235 again. That’s due to so much riding -on the trains. During my year away from San Francisco there were two or three times when I could have fought with a day’s notice if necessary. When I get good and ready, I can drop to my oldi-time fighting weight easily.” “What is that?” asked the interviewer.

“Two hundred and fifteen pounds,” said Jim, without batting an eyelid. But all the same he never went into a ring weighing, less than 220 or 225.

“How does .work affect you after such a long lay-off?” was the next question. “It doesn’t bother me a bit. I can go into a gymnasium any time and work for two hours and a half without feeling the least tired. I’m in good shape —as good as ever —and this coloured gentleman is going to get the licking of his life!” “How long will the championship dispute last?” queried the interviewer. “Now you’re getting upon risky ground,” said Jim with a laugh. A fighter who attempts to call the turn on the length of a fight generally misses his guess. I will say this much, however, it won’t last any longer than I can help!”