BOXING.

Grey River Argus, 2 March 1927, Page 3

BOXING.

TEAM OF FRENCHMEN. LAFFINEUR ’S GR EAT PROMTSE. M. Leon See and his team of French boxers passed through Auckland from Australia by the Niagara last lyeek. Laffineur is sought by American boxing promoters following his success in his series of fights in Australia and AL See’s departure was hastened by the tempting offers he received for Laffineur’s services. Laffineur was regarded highly by Australian critics and, notwithstanding his comparative lack of experience, promises to rank among the best welter-weights.

Just before his departure Laffineur fought seven torrid rounds with “Tiger” Payne before he won on a foul at the Sydney Stadium. The Frenchman, the faster man, and more finished, crafty boxer in defensive moves, cast aside his long suit, and carried the fight to Payne.” states a Sydney writer. ‘‘lt was his undoing for, while he fought with Spartan plack, he was hit tremendous blows. With his back to his foe, Laffineur was hit a terrific blow in the small of the back, and went down. Excitement reigned through the crowd and it momentarily seemed to infect the referee, who first put his hand on Payne and then moved round and placed it on the prostrate Laffineur to crown him victor. It was a foul unintentional, and the verdict was correct. But Laffineur should never fight Payne again. Payne is potentially a world’s champion middle-weight in the making. He possesses every quality a champion must posses and requires only a little polish, which experience and an old-headed coach may easily

impart. ’ ’ Laffineur stated afterwards that if the coloured boxer learns a little more rring-craft and boxing skill no man of his weight will conquer him. He never thought it possible for any middleweight to hit so hard as Payne does.