New Britain herald., 1927-12-03
(RY WERNER LAUFER)

(BY WERNER LAUFER) Just how good is Mickey Walker? Or let's put it this way. What part is luck playing in the present ftstic fireworks, furnished by the Elizabeth. N. J., Irshman?
 This question is met with a dumb look from the educated boys who had the boss of the middles begged as one about ready for the cleaners. Most Of them figured that the "Toy Bulldog" was on his last legs and | even after his sensational ten-round | knockout of Tommy Milligan in London, they merely gigglcd and said funny things about the British opponents of the manly art. The Mick" then returned to the states and started a tour of the jungles, handing out the leather collie to all who got in there with him. Just little more easy jack before he hangs up the mittens or is bumped out from under the crown" was the way the smart fel- lows had it doped. Just wait til Tiger Flowers gets another crack at the champ" or words to that effect.
 Then 1t came out that Walker was matched with the venerable Mike McTigue and the boys felt ccr- tain their good dope would hold up. Surely the crafty ancient would kick the Toy Bulldog all over the enclosure was the feeling of the mob
 But the little man surprised and sent Auld Mike out in less than round and Mir. Pandcmonium has been with us ever since He fol- lowed this up with decisive win over Paul Barlcnbach. Thus inside Of a month Walker has defeated two former light heavyweight champions.
 Also the gang on the corner Is now not 30 sure of Walkers early demise and some even venture to say maybe Mickey is another Bob Fitzsimmons or something one who can cope with the bigger fellows as we'll as those of his own division.
 Be that as it may. if certainly is not reasonable that man can win himself two titles and make designs at still another on the mere strength of rabbits foot in his rear pocket. With the defeat Of NcT;guc and Berlenbach Mickey proved le is far from through. pHSi,jstically, his de- feat by Latzo and his disputed win over the late "Tigar" Flowers to the contrary notwithstanding. Back In 1922 after Walker won his first championship from Jack 1'ritton, the critics wept big tears of joy over the youngstcr, gcir% so far as 10 call him a "White Walcott" and a Miniature Jack Dempsey" All agreed he was T most canahlc champion and with the experience he has gained since, there is no reason to believe Mickey is not a, good as ever.
 Another thing to consider Is the part his manager. Jack Ecarns, is playing in the faro-up. F."arns wa. aoundly scored by many for letting the Weltcrwoight title g7t away from Walker in the Scranton go with I.atzo. It was poor judgment, they said. for champion 10 risk his til" for sq little consideration, and right in th%challcnccr's stronghold.
 Rnt the "musk fanciar" got his boy another crown within a few months and has been steering him into triumphs ever since. Surely he has been vindicated for the nasty things said about his managerial ab'ity.
 But MT. kearns and Wal'ier have announced they are out for bigger game. Mayh" by the erd of winter we will know if Micl-rv WHll-er can play Fit7-irlmnre' rc'cs e. whothcr 'e Is 'Nrt CNttirg by on the good Trncea of Lady Iu"'1.