Classic American West Coast Boxing

[dagosd2000]

UNDER THE BARRIO BRIDGE

During the summertime in Logan Heights,a barrio in Southeast San Diego, I've seen the growth of ice cream vendors that push those hand painted carts. One of the names I see painted on those carts is"Ositos." I see that name a lot in Tijuana.The same carts. The same ice cream. It's probably the same company,just on this side of the border. Always it's an old dark skinned Mexican gentleman wearing the sombrero of the "campesinos" pushing the cart along the sidewalks of Logan passing by the small houses with the wrought iron in front of the windows and the doors with the bolt locks. He rings the little bell on the handle bar.The same tiny ring that kids have on their bikes. He walks very slowly. Under the Cesar Chavez Bridge, just off the freeway heading south, when the sun heats up the pavement,and the birds don't want to chirp,the old man will rest under the bridge. He'll wipe his whiskered face with a hankerchief. He'll lean his back against the cool concrete wall of the bridge and won't really care if no one comes by.

[dagosd2000]

[kikibalt]

Courtesy Mando Muniz

I wanted to find a place to mention the fact that you are President of The Boxing Hall of Fame…finally did!

Robbery!

Armando Muniz

Uncrowned Welterweight Champion of the World

By

John J. Raspanti



It was little over thirty four years ago when Armando Muniz was denied his dream of winning a world championship.. The scene was the convention center in Acapulco Mexico ; Armando was taking on the legendary Jose “Mantequilla” Napoles. He entered the ring a 6-1 underdog. Napoles seemed to agree as he didn’t look particularly concerned before the opening bell rang.

He should have been.

Armando was ready that night. He was in the best shape of his life…and he could see that the Napoles was not. As was his style, he stayed close to the champion and pounded him. Napoles fired back but by the middle rounds he was feeling his oats. Armando grew stronger; he was quicker then Napoles and repeatedly beating him to the punch. Napoles grew more desperate, in the 11th round he connected with 12 low blows. The referee that night, one Ramom Berumen did nothing. No warning, no words, nothing.

AMuniz: the 11th round? He must have thrown 12 to 14 INTENTIONAL low blows and the ref never saw one of them. THIS was never ever brought up! Boxers have been disqualified for this!!

By the 12th round the champion was reeling. Referee Berumen was helping every way he could. He was engaged in a conversation with a ringside official as Muniz and Napoles swapped punchers. Napoles was beaten. Both his eyes were swelled up and cut badly. He needed to be saved, and as Breumen ended his conversation that’s exactly what would happen. Berumen stopped the fight; the ring physician had advised him that Napoles could not continue…

Armando had done it, he was the world champion. All the years of toil and time away from his family had finally paid off. The small paychecks and the bad decisions, none of that mattered anymore. His dream of winning the championship had finally happened. But no, things are sometimes not what they seem in the shady world of professional boxing. In an amazing scene that must have been shocking to all, referee Berumen grabbed the ringside microphone and declared that Napoles was the winner by “technical decision”. His cuts had been caused by Muniz butting him…

AMuniz: Although both of us lowered our heads to avoid punches, the ref ONLY warned me, at one time even when I lowered my head after Napoles threw an intentional low blow. When he did this, it dawned on me. "WOW, it looks like I have to "fight" against Napoles AND the refs bias" Anyway he never took points away or declared that his cuts were due to an illegal head butt..

Look up the word “travesty” in the dictionary and you’ll see…make a mockery of…pevert…distortion…and the one word that probably describes that night in Acapulco perfectly…scam.

Armando was the 1968 AAU golden gloves champion while serving in the army. He turned professional in 1970 and quickly worked his way up the ratings. He won the NABF Championship from Clyde Gray in 1971 (in what was considered an upset) and held the title for two years. He defeated many fighters that the experts said he shouldn’t have. Recognized today as the uncrowned champion, Armando is also the President of The World Boxing Hall of Fame. In a wide ranging interview I asked Armando why he became a fighter, how different boxing is today compared to when he fought, what fighters he follows, Pacquiao and Mayweather and of course that “night” in 1975…

JR: Why did you become a fighter?

AM: As a kid, I was actually a little "chicken". I have never had a street fight in my life! Basically I wanted to prove to my father that I was worthy of becoming a man. Sometimes I'd come home from school crying cause some kid would pick on me and I'd be scared to fight. My mother, who was an angel and the sweetest person on earth, would console me. She would tell me that fighting another human being would not prove anything and it would only cause unneeded pain. My father, who worked as a heavy equipment operator, on the other hand was a hard worker. He paid his dues. I admired him. he would get up at 4 in the morning to go to work and return an 5 or 6 most all the time. He supported all of us, my mom and 8 kids. I was oldest of the boys. I would watch the boxing matches on TV with my father and uncles and cousins and they would always root for the fighter who was the slugger. This is the days of Carmen Basilio, Gene Fullmer, and Gaspar Ortega!!! My father, along with the others would always say, "that's what you call a MAN. He can really dish it out as well as not running from the opponent. "What a slugger" Up until the age of 14, I was afraid my dad would learn that I backed out of fighting someone else and I knew he would be disappointed in me. So one day I am reading the El Paso Times and I see in the sports section and announcement. All I remember was that it was 3 -2minute rounds and that the gloves seemed to weight 20 pounds each. But I was eager and the yelling of the crowd gave me lots of courage and I ”slugged" it out with Tony Ramos and although he beat me good, the crowd gave me the applause for "fighting" and not giving up. After the fight, my father waited for me at ringside and picked me up and gave me big hug and said, "That’s the way to go son, you fought like a man and everybody saw it. I am proud of you" That was the day I knew what I would do in my life.

JR: How different was boxing in your day compared to today

AM: The difference in boxing back in the 60's and 70's is that the work ethic was different. It shows in all areas of competition in the US in all sports and actually in all areas of our lives. Title bouts were 15 rounds. We weren't as spoiled as we are now. Athletes earned their way. There was less politics. Parents would respect coaches and let them do their jobs. Today many coaches are afraid to train the kids too hard for fear of parents complaining. I love the sport and there a few great champs out there, but boxing then compared to today is like the great TV programs of that era compared to some of these "reality" shows which draw so much attention from TV viewers!!

JR: Speaking of today is there one particular fighter you follow?

AM: I follow the likes of the Marquez brothers, Ricky Hatton, Erik Morales, Shane Mosley, Israel Vasquez, and the likes of them.

JR: If it happens…who wins…Mayweather or Pacquiao

AM: I take Pacquiao over Mayweather, although Mayweather is VERY illusive. Mayweathers style is not good for the fighters like Pacquiao. He won't stay in front of a slugger like Manny. But to me Manny is "The Man"

JR: Were you robbed on March 29th 1975 when Jose ‘Mantequilla’ Napoles was awarded a technical decision victory?

AM: Without a doubt, I was robbed. "I could have been the champ!!" If you see that fight, the only question one can ask is, where the judges LOOKING at this fight? When the doctor finally came on the ring I could read his lips, "ya no puede seguir!" (he can't continue). Now keep this in mind, the ref NEVER stopped and penalized me for butting (this is supposedly what caused the cuts........under his eyebrows!!!). In the rule book this is automatically a TKO!! I hope someday justice can be done.

JR: Was it difficult mentally to get over that fight?

AM: I was very saddened by verdict. It did change my life and for those close to me. I will never forget the look on my father’s face that evening in Acapulco . For that I think I could have killed someone! When I saw my mother, she just wanted to know if I was alright. I was perfect, totally unhurt, and she was happy. She said I would get over it. For a short time I did live through that "oh poor me syndrome" but I decided to go on with my life. Oh and my wife… I know she hurt inside for me, because she knew what it meant to me and she saw the sacrifices I made to reach that point in my career as a pugilist. The look on her face told me everything, but she did so much to make me feel OK about the fact everyone knew what had happened that night. And actually, I never broke down, because I wanted to show her that I did not lose that fight. She was my biggest and closest fan! Unfortunately, in boxing you are either on this side or that side. That side had all the connections, all the bets, and all of the kiss asses (sorry). I (we) did it right and do not "owe" anyone anything. This is too prevalent in the sport.

JR: Was Napoles the best fighter you ever faced?

AM: He probably was the best all around boxer. He was also a very very hard puncher. He beat all the best of our era in the welterweight and lightweight division.

JR: You fought so many good fighters…and had 44 victories…of the 44 wins was there one that was the most satisfying?

AM: My fight with Clyde Gray for the North American Title was very satisfying. It was my 17th pro fight and he was ranked way above me in the ratings. He had a great jab and moved real well............but I guess not well enough..........I KO'd him in the ninth round. I was very happy I got past Adolf Pruitt. He had just beaten Hedgemon Lewis a few months earlier and I knew he was tuff.. He was difficult to box OR fight against. Very unorthodox. Boy could he hit. I KO'd him in the 8th round. I think he got tired of hitting me!!! After the fight, I recall, the athletic commissions Joey Olmos came in and told me I would be suspended for 60 days. He thought that I took too many shots..........Oh yes, Ernie" Indian Red" Lopez was suppose to knock me out too. I beat him in 7 rounds.

JR: Any regrets with your boxing career?

AM: Not really. I would like to have had 90+ fights on my record, but it wasn't meant to be.. I got drafted into the US Army at 22, so I turned pro at 24. Most boxers are done by that time.

JR: Tell me something about Armando Muniz that most boxing fans don’t know…

AM: Well, I am proud of the fact that Carlos Palomino and I were the first (and maybe the last for a while) boxers to ever fight for a world title and both of us being college graduates. People might not know that I was a math and Spanish teacher in high school for 23 years. And since I wrestled at UCLA, I was also a wrestling coach at Rubidoux High School for 21 years. And probably most people don't know that one the greatest moments in my life came when I received my Masters Degree in Administration.

JR: Thank you champ for taking the time…

© John J. Raspanti

[Rick Farris]

Courtesy Mando Muniz

I wanted to find a place to mention the fact that you are President of The Boxing Hall of Fame…finally did!

Robbery!

Armando Muniz

Uncrowned Welterweight Champion of the World

By

John J. Raspanti



It was little over thirty four years ago when Armando Muniz was denied his dream of winning a world championship.. The scene was the convention center in Acapulco Mexico ; Armando was taking on the legendary Jose “Mantequilla” Napoles. He entered the ring a 6-1 underdog. Napoles seemed to agree as he didn’t look particularly concerned before the opening bell rang.

He should have been.

Armando was ready that night. He was in the best shape of his life…and he could see that the Napoles was not. As was his style, he stayed close to the champion and pounded him. Napoles fired back but by the middle rounds he was feeling his oats. Armando grew stronger; he was quicker then Napoles and repeatedly beating him to the punch. Napoles grew more desperate, in the 11th round he connected with 12 low blows. The referee that night, one Ramom Berumen did nothing. No warning, no words, nothing.

AMuniz: the 11th round? He must have thrown 12 to 14 INTENTIONAL low blows and the ref never saw one of them. THIS was never ever brought up! Boxers have been disqualified for this!!

By the 12th round the champion was reeling. Referee Berumen was helping every way he could. He was engaged in a conversation with a ringside official as Muniz and Napoles swapped punchers. Napoles was beaten. Both his eyes were swelled up and cut badly. He needed to be saved, and as Breumen ended his conversation that’s exactly what would happen. Berumen stopped the fight; the ring physician had advised him that Napoles could not continue…

Armando had done it, he was the world champion. All the years of toil and time away from his family had finally paid off. The small paychecks and the bad decisions, none of that mattered anymore. His dream of winning the championship had finally happened. But no, things are sometimes not what they seem in the shady world of professional boxing. In an amazing scene that must have been shocking to all, referee Berumen grabbed the ringside microphone and declared that Napoles was the winner by “technical decision”. His cuts had been caused by Muniz butting him…

AMuniz: Although both of us lowered our heads to avoid punches, the ref ONLY warned me, at one time even when I lowered my head after Napoles threw an intentional low blow. When he did this, it dawned on me. "WOW, it looks like I have to "fight" against Napoles AND the refs bias" Anyway he never took points away or declared that his cuts were due to an illegal head butt..

Look up the word “travesty” in the dictionary and you’ll see…make a mockery of…pevert…distortion…and the one word that probably describes that night in Acapulco perfectly…scam.

Armando was the 1968 AAU golden gloves champion while serving in the army. He turned professional in 1970 and quickly worked his way up the ratings. He won the NABF Championship from Clyde Gray in 1971 (in what was considered an upset) and held the title for two years. He defeated many fighters that the experts said he shouldn’t have. Recognized today as the uncrowned champion, Armando is also the President of The World Boxing Hall of Fame. In a wide ranging interview I asked Armando why he became a fighter, how different boxing is today compared to when he fought, what fighters he follows, Pacquiao and Mayweather and of course that “night” in 1975…

JR: Why did you become a fighter?

AM: As a kid, I was actually a little "chicken". I have never had a street fight in my life! Basically I wanted to prove to my father that I was worthy of becoming a man. Sometimes I'd come home from school crying cause some kid would pick on me and I'd be scared to fight. My mother, who was an angel and the sweetest person on earth, would console me. She would tell me that fighting another human being would not prove anything and it would only cause unneeded pain. My father, who worked as a heavy equipment operator, on the other hand was a hard worker. He paid his dues. I admired him. he would get up at 4 in the morning to go to work and return an 5 or 6 most all the time. He supported all of us, my mom and 8 kids. I was oldest of the boys. I would watch the boxing matches on TV with my father and uncles and cousins and they would always root for the fighter who was the slugger. This is the days of Carmen Basilio, Gene Fullmer, and Gaspar Ortega!!! My father, along with the others would always say, "that's what you call a MAN. He can really dish it out as well as not running from the opponent. "What a slugger" Up until the age of 14, I was afraid my dad would learn that I backed out of fighting someone else and I knew he would be disappointed in me. So one day I am reading the El Paso Times and I see in the sports section and announcement. All I remember was that it was 3 -2minute rounds and that the gloves seemed to weight 20 pounds each. But I was eager and the yelling of the crowd gave me lots of courage and I ”slugged" it out with Tony Ramos and although he beat me good, the crowd gave me the applause for "fighting" and not giving up. After the fight, my father waited for me at ringside and picked me up and gave me big hug and said, "That’s the way to go son, you fought like a man and everybody saw it. I am proud of you" That was the day I knew what I would do in my life.

JR: How different was boxing in your day compared to today

AM: The difference in boxing back in the 60's and 70's is that the work ethic was different. It shows in all areas of competition in the US in all sports and actually in all areas of our lives. Title bouts were 15 rounds. We weren't as spoiled as we are now. Athletes earned their way. There was less politics. Parents would respect coaches and let them do their jobs. Today many coaches are afraid to train the kids too hard for fear of parents complaining. I love the sport and there a few great champs out there, but boxing then compared to today is like the great TV programs of that era compared to some of these "reality" shows which draw so much attention from TV viewers!!

JR: Speaking of today is there one particular fighter you follow?

AM: I follow the likes of the Marquez brothers, Ricky Hatton, Erik Morales, Shane Mosley, Israel Vasquez, and the likes of them.

JR: If it happens…who wins…Mayweather or Pacquiao

AM: I take Pacquiao over Mayweather, although Mayweather is VERY illusive. Mayweathers style is not good for the fighters like Pacquiao. He won't stay in front of a slugger like Manny. But to me Manny is "The Man"

JR: Were you robbed on March 29th 1975 when Jose ‘Mantequilla’ Napoles was awarded a technical decision victory?

AM: Without a doubt, I was robbed. "I could have been the champ!!" If you see that fight, the only question one can ask is, where the judges LOOKING at this fight? When the doctor finally came on the ring I could read his lips, "ya no puede seguir!" (he can't continue). Now keep this in mind, the ref NEVER stopped and penalized me for butting (this is supposedly what caused the cuts........under his eyebrows!!!). In the rule book this is automatically a TKO!! I hope someday justice can be done.

JR: Was it difficult mentally to get over that fight?

AM: I was very saddened by verdict. It did change my life and for those close to me. I will never forget the look on my father’s face that evening in Acapulco . For that I think I could have killed someone! When I saw my mother, she just wanted to know if I was alright. I was perfect, totally unhurt, and she was happy. She said I would get over it. For a short time I did live through that "oh poor me syndrome" but I decided to go on with my life. Oh and my wife… I know she hurt inside for me, because she knew what it meant to me and she saw the sacrifices I made to reach that point in my career as a pugilist. The look on her face told me everything, but she did so much to make me feel OK about the fact everyone knew what had happened that night. And actually, I never broke down, because I wanted to show her that I did not lose that fight. She was my biggest and closest fan! Unfortunately, in boxing you are either on this side or that side. That side had all the connections, all the bets, and all of the kiss asses (sorry). I (we) did it right and do not "owe" anyone anything. This is too prevalent in the sport.

JR: Was Napoles the best fighter you ever faced?

AM: He probably was the best all around boxer. He was also a very very hard puncher. He beat all the best of our era in the welterweight and lightweight division.

JR: You fought so many good fighters…and had 44 victories…of the 44 wins was there one that was the most satisfying?

AM: My fight with Clyde Gray for the North American Title was very satisfying. It was my 17th pro fight and he was ranked way above me in the ratings. He had a great jab and moved real well............but I guess not well enough..........I KO'd him in the ninth round. I was very happy I got past Adolf Pruitt. He had just beaten Hedgemon Lewis a few months earlier and I knew he was tuff.. He was difficult to box OR fight against. Very unorthodox. Boy could he hit. I KO'd him in the 8th round. I think he got tired of hitting me!!! After the fight, I recall, the athletic commissions Joey Olmos came in and told me I would be suspended for 60 days. He thought that I took too many shots..........Oh yes, Ernie" Indian Red" Lopez was suppose to knock me out too. I beat him in 7 rounds.

JR: Any regrets with your boxing career?

AM: Not really. I would like to have had 90+ fights on my record, but it wasn't meant to be.. I got drafted into the US Army at 22, so I turned pro at 24. Most boxers are done by that time.

JR: Tell me something about Armando Muniz that most boxing fans don’t know…

AM: Well, I am proud of the fact that Carlos Palomino and I were the first (and maybe the last for a while) boxers to ever fight for a world title and both of us being college graduates. People might not know that I was a math and Spanish teacher in high school for 23 years. And since I wrestled at UCLA, I was also a wrestling coach at Rubidoux High School for 21 years. And probably most people don't know that one the greatest moments in my life came when I received my Masters Degree in Administration.

JR: Thank you champ for taking the time…

© John J. Raspanti

Mando & Mantequilla . . .

I asked Armando Muniz if he and Jose Napoles had ever discussed their first bout.
Mando told me that after a boxing function that he and Mantequilla attended, Napoles followed him outside and wanted to talk.
"He just loooked at me, extended his hand and said, "I'm sorry. I had nothing to do with the outcome."
They have remained friends ever since.


-Rick Farris

[kikibalt]

You once said that you're used to living in the barrio. You don't have a yearning to go any where too far.Living in one of those communities would be living on the moon. At least for me.

Roger....I'm a man of the barrio, born and rise in the barrio, (Simon Brickyard). The barrios have aways been my digs, I feel at home in what ever barrio I visit, especially E.L.A....


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I'll be taking a ride to the barrio today, (E.L.A) for the Golden State Boxers' Association Xmas luncheon (Steven Steakhouse) Steven's is in Commerce which is next door to E.L.A....
______________________________________________________________________________________



I talked to Don Fraser about an hour ago. He told me it was a good turnout in a small room.
He said it was a nice event. How was it Frank? Sorry I couldn't attend.


-Rick
It was great Rick, small setting, 6 tables at the most, but it was SRO!!, about 60 people.

The food was great, steak and chicken, and it was FREE! it was better than the ones we pay for...

[kikibalt]

UNDER THE BARRIO BRIDGE

During the summertime in Logan Heights,a barrio in Southeast San Diego, I've seen the growth of ice cream vendors that push those hand painted carts. One of the names I see painted on those carts is"Ositos." I see that name a lot in Tijuana.The same carts. The same ice cream. It's probably the same company,just on this side of the border. Always it's an old dark skinned Mexican gentleman wearing the sombrero of the "campesinos" pushing the cart along the sidewalks of Logan passing by the small houses with the wrought iron in front of the windows and the doors with the bolt locks. He rings the little bell on the handle bar.The same tiny ring that kids have on their bikes. He walks very slowly. Under the Cesar Chavez Bridge, just off the freeway heading south, when the sun heats up the pavement,and the birds don't want to chirp,the old man will rest under the bridge. He'll wipe his whiskered face with a hankerchief. He'll lean his back against the cool concrete wall of the bridge and won't really care if no one comes by.

We have ice cream vendors pushing their carts here during the summer, but the cops are aways rounding them up and they will haul the carts away....

[raylawpc]

Courtesy Mando Muniz

I wanted to find a place to mention the fact that you are President of The Boxing Hall of Fame…finally did!

Robbery!

Armando Muniz

Uncrowned Welterweight Champion of the World

By

John J. Raspanti



It was little over thirty four years ago when Armando Muniz was denied his dream of winning a world championship.. The scene was the convention center in Acapulco Mexico ; Armando was taking on the legendary Jose “Mantequilla” Napoles. He entered the ring a 6-1 underdog. Napoles seemed to agree as he didn’t look particularly concerned before the opening bell rang.

He should have been.

Armando was ready that night. He was in the best shape of his life…and he could see that the Napoles was not. As was his style, he stayed close to the champion and pounded him. Napoles fired back but by the middle rounds he was feeling his oats. Armando grew stronger; he was quicker then Napoles and repeatedly beating him to the punch. Napoles grew more desperate, in the 11th round he connected with 12 low blows. The referee that night, one Ramom Berumen did nothing. No warning, no words, nothing.

AMuniz: the 11th round? He must have thrown 12 to 14 INTENTIONAL low blows and the ref never saw one of them. THIS was never ever brought up! Boxers have been disqualified for this!!

By the 12th round the champion was reeling. Referee Berumen was helping every way he could. He was engaged in a conversation with a ringside official as Muniz and Napoles swapped punchers. Napoles was beaten. Both his eyes were swelled up and cut badly. He needed to be saved, and as Breumen ended his conversation that’s exactly what would happen. Berumen stopped the fight; the ring physician had advised him that Napoles could not continue…

Armando had done it, he was the world champion. All the years of toil and time away from his family had finally paid off. The small paychecks and the bad decisions, none of that mattered anymore. His dream of winning the championship had finally happened. But no, things are sometimes not what they seem in the shady world of professional boxing. In an amazing scene that must have been shocking to all, referee Berumen grabbed the ringside microphone and declared that Napoles was the winner by “technical decision”. His cuts had been caused by Muniz butting him…

AMuniz: Although both of us lowered our heads to avoid punches, the ref ONLY warned me, at one time even when I lowered my head after Napoles threw an intentional low blow. When he did this, it dawned on me. "WOW, it looks like I have to "fight" against Napoles AND the refs bias" Anyway he never took points away or declared that his cuts were due to an illegal head butt..

Look up the word “travesty” in the dictionary and you’ll see…make a mockery of…pevert…distortion…and the one word that probably describes that night in Acapulco perfectly…scam.

Armando was the 1968 AAU golden gloves champion while serving in the army. He turned professional in 1970 and quickly worked his way up the ratings. He won the NABF Championship from Clyde Gray in 1971 (in what was considered an upset) and held the title for two years. He defeated many fighters that the experts said he shouldn’t have. Recognized today as the uncrowned champion, Armando is also the President of The World Boxing Hall of Fame. In a wide ranging interview I asked Armando why he became a fighter, how different boxing is today compared to when he fought, what fighters he follows, Pacquiao and Mayweather and of course that “night” in 1975…

JR: Why did you become a fighter?

AM: As a kid, I was actually a little "chicken". I have never had a street fight in my life! Basically I wanted to prove to my father that I was worthy of becoming a man. Sometimes I'd come home from school crying cause some kid would pick on me and I'd be scared to fight. My mother, who was an angel and the sweetest person on earth, would console me. She would tell me that fighting another human being would not prove anything and it would only cause unneeded pain. My father, who worked as a heavy equipment operator, on the other hand was a hard worker. He paid his dues. I admired him. he would get up at 4 in the morning to go to work and return an 5 or 6 most all the time. He supported all of us, my mom and 8 kids. I was oldest of the boys. I would watch the boxing matches on TV with my father and uncles and cousins and they would always root for the fighter who was the slugger. This is the days of Carmen Basilio, Gene Fullmer, and Gaspar Ortega!!! My father, along with the others would always say, "that's what you call a MAN. He can really dish it out as well as not running from the opponent. "What a slugger" Up until the age of 14, I was afraid my dad would learn that I backed out of fighting someone else and I knew he would be disappointed in me. So one day I am reading the El Paso Times and I see in the sports section and announcement. All I remember was that it was 3 -2minute rounds and that the gloves seemed to weight 20 pounds each. But I was eager and the yelling of the crowd gave me lots of courage and I ”slugged" it out with Tony Ramos and although he beat me good, the crowd gave me the applause for "fighting" and not giving up. After the fight, my father waited for me at ringside and picked me up and gave me big hug and said, "That’s the way to go son, you fought like a man and everybody saw it. I am proud of you" That was the day I knew what I would do in my life.

JR: How different was boxing in your day compared to today

AM: The difference in boxing back in the 60's and 70's is that the work ethic was different. It shows in all areas of competition in the US in all sports and actually in all areas of our lives. Title bouts were 15 rounds. We weren't as spoiled as we are now. Athletes earned their way. There was less politics. Parents would respect coaches and let them do their jobs. Today many coaches are afraid to train the kids too hard for fear of parents complaining. I love the sport and there a few great champs out there, but boxing then compared to today is like the great TV programs of that era compared to some of these "reality" shows which draw so much attention from TV viewers!!

JR: Speaking of today is there one particular fighter you follow?

AM: I follow the likes of the Marquez brothers, Ricky Hatton, Erik Morales, Shane Mosley, Israel Vasquez, and the likes of them.

JR: If it happens…who wins…Mayweather or Pacquiao

AM: I take Pacquiao over Mayweather, although Mayweather is VERY illusive. Mayweathers style is not good for the fighters like Pacquiao. He won't stay in front of a slugger like Manny. But to me Manny is "The Man"

JR: Were you robbed on March 29th 1975 when Jose ‘Mantequilla’ Napoles was awarded a technical decision victory?

AM: Without a doubt, I was robbed. "I could have been the champ!!" If you see that fight, the only question one can ask is, where the judges LOOKING at this fight? When the doctor finally came on the ring I could read his lips, "ya no puede seguir!" (he can't continue). Now keep this in mind, the ref NEVER stopped and penalized me for butting (this is supposedly what caused the cuts........under his eyebrows!!!). In the rule book this is automatically a TKO!! I hope someday justice can be done.

JR: Was it difficult mentally to get over that fight?

AM: I was very saddened by verdict. It did change my life and for those close to me. I will never forget the look on my father’s face that evening in Acapulco . For that I think I could have killed someone! When I saw my mother, she just wanted to know if I was alright. I was perfect, totally unhurt, and she was happy. She said I would get over it. For a short time I did live through that "oh poor me syndrome" but I decided to go on with my life. Oh and my wife… I know she hurt inside for me, because she knew what it meant to me and she saw the sacrifices I made to reach that point in my career as a pugilist. The look on her face told me everything, but she did so much to make me feel OK about the fact everyone knew what had happened that night. And actually, I never broke down, because I wanted to show her that I did not lose that fight. She was my biggest and closest fan! Unfortunately, in boxing you are either on this side or that side. That side had all the connections, all the bets, and all of the kiss asses (sorry). I (we) did it right and do not "owe" anyone anything. This is too prevalent in the sport.

JR: Was Napoles the best fighter you ever faced?

AM: He probably was the best all around boxer. He was also a very very hard puncher. He beat all the best of our era in the welterweight and lightweight division.

JR: You fought so many good fighters…and had 44 victories…of the 44 wins was there one that was the most satisfying?

AM: My fight with Clyde Gray for the North American Title was very satisfying. It was my 17th pro fight and he was ranked way above me in the ratings. He had a great jab and moved real well............but I guess not well enough..........I KO'd him in the ninth round. I was very happy I got past Adolf Pruitt. He had just beaten Hedgemon Lewis a few months earlier and I knew he was tuff.. He was difficult to box OR fight against. Very unorthodox. Boy could he hit. I KO'd him in the 8th round. I think he got tired of hitting me!!! After the fight, I recall, the athletic commissions Joey Olmos came in and told me I would be suspended for 60 days. He thought that I took too many shots..........Oh yes, Ernie" Indian Red" Lopez was suppose to knock me out too. I beat him in 7 rounds.

JR: Any regrets with your boxing career?

AM: Not really. I would like to have had 90+ fights on my record, but it wasn't meant to be.. I got drafted into the US Army at 22, so I turned pro at 24. Most boxers are done by that time.

JR: Tell me something about Armando Muniz that most boxing fans don’t know…

AM: Well, I am proud of the fact that Carlos Palomino and I were the first (and maybe the last for a while) boxers to ever fight for a world title and both of us being college graduates. People might not know that I was a math and Spanish teacher in high school for 23 years. And since I wrestled at UCLA, I was also a wrestling coach at Rubidoux High School for 21 years. And probably most people don't know that one the greatest moments in my life came when I received my Masters Degree in Administration.

JR: Thank you champ for taking the time…

© John J. Raspanti

Thanks for the story, Frank.

[kikibalt]

You're welcome Tom.

[kikibalt]

Jose Napoles vs Billy Backus I
December3 1970
War Memorial, Syracuse, New York
WBC Welterweight Championship, WBA World Welterweight Championship
Referee Jack Milicich

[dagosd2000]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=itdNoGtPQ3I

Please Come Home For Christmas

Charles Brown

[dagosd2000]

Jose Napoles vs Billy Backus I
December3 1970
War Memorial, Syracuse, New York
WBC Welterweight Championship, WBA World Welterweight Championship
Referee Jack Milicich

SHUFFLED OFF IN BUFFALO(Or Syracuse)

When L.C. Morgan opened up Mantequilla's eye in Reynosa,it changed the Cuban's career in a way. Like he was always looking over his shoulder. If Napoles hadn't have been one of the smoothest and most relaxed fighters in the ring,that nickname"Mantequilla" could have been attributed to his eyes. He never knew when they would melt like butter. I remember when Napoles traveled across the United States to fight a ready Billy Backus in the Italian's backyard in Syracuse.

When Billy opened the eye,I could see the desperation in Napoles's corner. The greaseballs sensed a change in crowns. Napoles was throwing right hand leads and working his ass off trying to catch Carmen Basilio's nephew. It was looking like Napoles was gaining on him,but as quick as you could say "Che La Luna",the referee stepped between and Jose's crown had slipped away like...butter.

The rematch clause had the bout in L.A. at the Forum. This time Jose was surrounded by his compadres. Jose was in control from the beginning,but in the opening moments of the fight,the eye did its "Open Says Me"bit.I'll never forget Napoles's reaction. He pawed the eye and then looked at his glove. I think he figured"What's new?" Yeah,he was bleeding again. But he systematically broke Billy down. Carmen knew his nephew got a beatng that night. Billy's face was bleeding too. He was never the same after that.

I often think of the time 'ol L.C. Morgan opened that cut over Jose Napoles's eye. At Reynosa,Mexico of all places. Morgan had always been Jose's bread and butter.Mantequilla had fought in just about every arena in every dusty pueblo in Mexico. He was looking for a fight in the big time. He wanted a title fight with Loche or Ortiz or Laguna,but he never connected until the Greek took him under his wing.

If Jose Napoles had met George Parnassus a few years earlier,he probably would never had fought the likes of L.C. Morgan in the desert of northern Mexico. He would have never had to look over his shoulder.He would have always known which side his bread was buttered on .

[dagosd2000]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0pjd3jbWiA

Merry Christmas Baby

Charles Brown(Frank's kind of Christmas Carol)

[Rick Farris]

Jose Napoles vs Billy Backus I
December3 1970
War Memorial, Syracuse, New York
WBC Welterweight Championship, WBA World Welterweight Championship
Referee Jack Milicich

This photo was from the rematch, at the Forum, not the first fight in N.Y.
That's referee Dick Young between the boxers.
The rematch was held six months later, on June 4, 1971.


-Rick Farris

[kikibalt]

Jose Napoles vs Billy Backus I
December3 1970
War Memorial, Syracuse, New York
WBC Welterweight Championship, WBA World Welterweight Championship
Referee Jack Milicich

This photo was from the rematch, at the Forum, not the first fight in N.Y.
That's referee Dick Young between the boxers.
The rematch was held six months later, on June 4, 1971.


-Rick Farris

I thought the info was wrong, also thought that was Dick Young, Thanks Rick....

[dagosd2000]

Jose Napoles vs Billy Backus I
December3 1970
War Memorial, Syracuse, New York
WBC Welterweight Championship, WBA World Welterweight Championship
Referee Jack Milicich

This photo was from the rematch, at the Forum, not the first fight in N.Y.
That's referee Dick Young between the boxers.
The rematch was held six months later, on June 4, 1971.


-Rick Farris

I thought the info was wrong, also thought that was Dick Young, Thanks Rick....

Very good Rick
I thought that was Dick Young .

[kikibalt]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0pjd3jbWiA

Merry Christmas Baby

Charles Brown(Frank's kind of Christmas Carol)

Yes!!, my kind of music!!

[Rick Farris]

Dick Young . . .

The photo of Napoles & Backus reveals one of the better referees to work in Los Angeles, Dick Young.
Young ref'd my first pro bout and gave me some good advice after the fight.
He also ref'd the only bout in which I was stopped, and a couple more, as well.

Dick was with the L.A. County Fire Dept. for years, as is his son, Bill Dempsy Young.
Bill Young is the current vice president of the Golden State Boxers Assoc. which put on a great lunch this week.
Bill is a lot like his father, which says a lot. He and his wife are very supportive of local boxing and boxers.

Frank, do you remember Dick Young as third man in the ring for Frankie Jr. or Tony's pro fights?
We had some good ones back in the 60's-80's. John Thomas, George Latka, Larry Rozadilla, Rudy Jordan, Lee Grossman, etc.


-Rick Farris

[kikibalt]

Dick Young . . .

The photo of Napoles & Backus reveals one of the better referees to work in Los Angeles, Dick Young.
Young ref'd my first pro bout and gave me some good advice after the fight.
He also ref'd the only bout in which I was stopped, and a couple more, as well.

Dick was with the L.A. County Fire Dept. for years, as is his son, Bill Dempsy Young.
Bill Young is the current vice president of the Golden State Boxers Assoc. which put on a great lunch this week.
Bill is a lot like his father, which says a lot. He and his wife are very supportive of local boxing and boxers.

Frank, do you remember Dick Young as third man in the ring for Frankie Jr. or Tony's pro fights?
We had some good ones back in the 60's-80's. John Thomas, George Latka, Larry Rozadilla, Rudy Jordan, Lee Grossman, etc.


-Rick Farris

No, I don't think Dick Young ever worked any of my boys fights, Lou Filippo, Vince Delgado and Dr. James Jen Kin, et al, did though.
Old time ref that I remember seeing live working L.A. rings was Dynamite Jackson.

[kikibalt]

Mando Muniz with the late Ernie "Indian Red" Lopez

[dagosd2000]

Mexican Fighter

[dagosd2000]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AQQ-BHHii2U

Jennifer Jones died today. A montage of pictures by one of her fans. I am a fan too.

[kikibalt]

Mando Muniz

[kikibalt]

[Rick Farris]

Dick Young . . .

The photo of Napoles & Backus reveals one of the better referees to work in Los Angeles, Dick Young.
Young ref'd my first pro bout and gave me some good advice after the fight.
He also ref'd the only bout in which I was stopped, and a couple more, as well.

Dick was with the L.A. County Fire Dept. for years, as is his son, Bill Dempsy Young.
Bill Young is the current vice president of the Golden State Boxers Assoc. which put on a great lunch this week.
Bill is a lot like his father, which says a lot. He and his wife are very supportive of local boxing and boxers.

Frank, do you remember Dick Young as third man in the ring for Frankie Jr. or Tony's pro fights?
We had some good ones back in the 60's-80's. John Thomas, George Latka, Larry Rozadilla, Rudy Jordan, Lee Grossman, etc.


-Rick Farris

No, I don't think Dick Young ever worked any of my boys fights, Lou Filippo, Vince Delgado and Dr. James Jen Kin, et al, did though.
Old time ref that I remember seeing live working L.A. rings was Dynamite Jackson.

Dynamite Jackson . . .

Frank, it wasn't until you and Don Fraser inducted Dynamite Jackson into the CBHOF that I would learn more about him, and his place in California boxing history.
I know that Gwen Adair received his plaque for him, and with no relatives present, she has the memorabelia in her home hanging on the wall among her momentos.

[Rick Farris]

ore than a year

Mando Muniz with the late Ernie "Indian Red" Lopez

When I was seventeen, it was a very good year . . .


Ernie "Indian Red" Lopez challenged the great Jose Napoles for the World Welterweight title.
And Armando Muniz? He was in the Army, a recent Olympian, won his second Nat'l AAU title. He'd turn pro the following year.

A few years later, they'd meet in the ring, at the legendary Olympic Auditorium.
Indian Red's decade had come to an end in the late 60's. Muniz's started in the early 70's.
The fight took place in the early 70's. Youth prevailed.

These guys both fought Napoles twice. And they fought each other, Hedge Lewis, Adolf Pruitt, Emile Griffith, and others.
Two great prizefighters. Two L.A. legends who made it to the top.


-Rick Farris