Cornishman, Exeter wrestling: Battishill wins champion cup (1888)

DEVONSHIRE WRESTLING. Wrestling matches at Exeter concluded on Monday in the presence of a large number of spectators. The prizes were £10 and two silver cups. Some good play was shewn by Battishill of Dewsteignton, and a man of the Royal Marines. As there was no prospect of either obtaining a back, the men tossed and Battishill won. Roach gave his back to James, as he had arranged to play Holman in a match. Battishill and Bragg then entered the ring, and the former cleverly threw his man. Bragg, however, was dissatisfied, and challenged Battishill to a match for £10 a-side. The next match was between Battishill and James, and this was the first in which kicking was resorted to. James, in the first round, almost gained a back. Both men kicked severely, and after a long struggle Battishill threw his man, and thus won the £6 and champion cup, James taking the second cup. The men were managed by Mr. G. Stone.