The tale of an alleged $145 million pyramid scheme already involves several luxury cars, jewellery, and $2 million in cash, some of which was folded into a bouquet.

But now NBR can reveal Maxim Trader’s "general legal counsel" is a New Zealander based in Macau whose history apparently includes world records, surviving a Filipino assassination attempt, bankruptcy, and pool.

NBR court Reporter Hamish McNicol talked to Wilfred Royce "Rocky" Lane this week, who was more than happy to share his history with NBR.

But he was also vigorous in his defence of the alleged pyramid scheme, Mr McNicol says, calling it nothing more than a "media frenzy" caused by jealous competitors.

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