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— GENE HAIRSTON— The Bronx scrapper is rated a surprise favorite to whip Jake La Motta in their rematch at Detroit tonight. The pair fought a bruising ten-round draw in their first meeting about two months ago. — ■ Hairston, La Motta MeetAgainTonight Gene Six-to-Five Favorite In 10-Round Bout Scheduled On Television From Detroit By LLOYD NORTHARD United Press Sports Writer DETROIT, Mich., May 20. — Eugene "Silent" Hairston, rested for more than two months, was cast today in the strange role of favorite for tomorrow nights 10- round bout with Jake La Motta. The 22-year-old Bronx Negro, who hasnt fought since he drew with La Motta March. 5, held a slim 6 to 5 edge in the betting circles against his aging rival. Seldom has La Motta entered the ring in Detroit as underdog. The Motor City has been unusually kind to the Bronx Bull. He has been beaten only once in 20 starts here. In fact, La Mottas only victory in over a year was scored in Detroit six weeks ago. He gained an easy decision over Norman Hayes of Boston, avenging an earlier loss. But still Hairston is favored. Mike Miele, Hairstons manager, is in full accord with the betting public. Waiting for Re-Match "Weve been laying for a rematch," he said. "I think Gene beat La Motta the last time and I know hell beat him this time. Hes had a long, much-needed rest and is at his physical peak." Both fighters have added incentive and will shoot the works. Hairston gets a crack at middleweight champion Ray Robinson if he can manage an impressive victory. La Motta has been promised a shot at light-heavyweight champion Joey Maxim, but might lose his chance with a dismal showing. Miele points out that Hairston always has been better in a rematch. "He lost to Laurent Dauthuille the first time they met, Miele said. "And look what happened the second time. Gene beat him easily. It was no contest." On the other hand, La Motta is as confident as ever. "They say Hairston took a rest because he needed one," La Motta said. "I say he took a rest because of the body beating I gave him and 111 keep throwing em at the body." The bout will be televised and broadcast over the nationwide facilities of the Columbia network at 9:00 p. m. CDT.
