view raw text
i j , i , ] i ] . — Cockell Now Plans To Improve Defense English Challenger Satisfied With Hitting Speed, Accuracy In Preparation for Ma re ia no By JACK CUDDY United Press Sports Writer SAN RAFAEL, Calif., May 7.— Don Cockell of England will sharpen his defense next week in final preparation for the world heavyweight championship fight with Rocky Marciano on May 16. Don and trainer Fred Simpson are now satisfied with the speed and accuracy of his punching — improvements that have increased considerably his threat to Marci-anos crown. In addition, Cockells status as challenger has been enhanced during the past week by light-heavyweight champion Archie Moores elimination of Cuban Nino Valdes as the number one heavyweight contender. Also by sparmate Toxie Halls knockdown of Marciano in training. Co-promoter Jimmy Murray, visiting Cockells camp here at the Bermuda Palms Hotel, said today, "The publics increased respect for Cockell has been reflected in the ticket sales. Im convinced now the gate will be at least 00,000." Murray said the cash advance for the 15-round fight in San Franciscos Kezar Stadium exceeded 25,000. He added, "And we have about 5,000 in reservations that havent been picked up." Took Off Eleven Pounds While training here, 17 miles north of San Francisco, barrel-bodied Cockell pared down from 221 pounds to 210. He expects to fight at 207 or 208. "I think Ive got the style to beat Marciano," the challenger said while relaxing oh the bed in his upstairs motel room before todays workout. He grinned and added, "And if I cant beat him, he might bloody well be champion for the next five years." Don knew of no other heavy who had a chance with Rocky. When told that visitors had been surprised by his weak defense in training, Don smiled and said with a slight lisp and a very thick Cockney accent, "Maybe Ive been a bit sloppy on defense because I was workin on other things. Remember, a fighter in camp doesnt look likt a fighter in the ring. Well sharpen up the defense a bit next week — wont we, Fred?" Trainer Fred agreed, "That we will." In connection with a fighters concentration on "new moves" in training, Cockell remarked that both he and Marciano had been floored recently by sparmates. "I was off balance when I got hit," he said. "And I suppose Rocky was too. Neither of us was hurt. Those knockdowns dont mean a thing. But itll be different on the 16th." The British Empire champion is using a headguard and a mouthpiece for the first time in training. Co-promoter Murray insisted upon their use in order to prevent cuts that might cause a postponement. Cockell refers to the mouthpiece as a "gum shield." He said he was uncertain about using it in the big fight. Today was "British Empire Day" in camp. Groups from English and Scottish societies in the San Francisco area attended the workout. The representation included a Scottish bagpipe band.
