BOXING.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVI, Issue 2386, 30 December 1908, Page 5

BOXING.

WORLD'S CHAMPIONSHIP.

FURTHER EXPRESSIONS OF OPINION. AMERICAN NEGROES DELIGHTED. THE DEVELOPMENT OF „ JOHNSON. United Press Association. Copyright LONDON, Dec. 28. « “Cestus,” in the Sportsman, while recognising Burns’ pluck, considers Johnson to be his superior at every point, justifying the belief that Burns has no right to be classed with the best of past champions. “Cestus” expected Burns to make a better fight, and considers that the brainy, crafty boxer lost bis head and generalship. Sporting Life states: “Johnson is too big and clever” exactly sums up the contest, lie could probably have won earlier, but he preferred to punch instead.

The Daily Mail states*: The fight was not heroic. Probably Burns obtained ’the championship in a period of decadence.

The Telegraph’s New York correspondent states: Americans dislike Johnson’s victory, but the negroes are greatly delighted. Jeffries has - been sounded, but declines to fight Johnson or anyone else. Owing to Burns’ lack of popularity in England, sportsmen generally are glad of the result of the contest.

NEW YORK, Dec. 23

Johnson’s mother, who is a respectable old woman, of Galveston, states that when he was a hoy Johnson was a rank coward. She being unable t-o be bothered to settle children’s fights, gave Johnson a licking for being beaten by another boy. He developed confidence, and became the champion of the village. The old lady is very proud of her son’s success.