Classic American West Coast Boxing

[Rick Farris]

What did Dan write that was incorrect about Toluco Lopez?
--------------------------------------------------------

I never stated that Dan wrote anything incorrect, I wrote that his opinions were based upon the obeservation of others.
By the way, you pulled the article from the Sept. 2000 CBZ Journal. I contributed to that edition, as well, covering the Tszyu-Chavez fight.
I have never had a problem with stories written by Dan C. But like 99.9% of those who are IBRO members, they "research" the stories of others. One very well known "historian" (Whom I will not name) is a great researcher who will write a paragraph (and provide the source of his information.) This is great, it takes the liability off of him, but often those he quotes have an axe to grind. Keep in mind that the great Nat Fleisher created The Ring Magazine as a promotional device for Madison Square Garden and the fighters they were promoting. He wrote stories that served his purpose, and that of MSG. How many "historians" who have spent their entire life in the mid-west have any actual knowledge or understanding of Mexican fighters, aside from what they read or watch in old films? I didn't grow up in Mexico, but I grew up around the greatest Mexican boxers of the era, as well as the great Mexican-American fighters. This is true of all of us who grew up in boxing in Los Angeles. We aren't in court, Tom. You needn't try to twist the issue to your advantage. If you want to argue, bring it on. I'm not a fan of IBRO, as they often perpetuate the distortion of true boxing history. The problem is, they read something and they run with it, and with almost everybody involved dead, who is there to dispute them? As far as "historians" are concerned, Hap Navarro is a historian, and so is Don Fraser, Frank Baltazar and a few others I've had the luck of meeting. The rest are "historical researchers".

My opinion of IBRO is that when it comes to boxing history, most of the group are lost balls in high grass. They are threatened by anybody with actual experience. It's just another "Men's Club" for boxing fans, as was the WBHOF before Mando and I cleaned house this past year. Now, I'm moving on. If you care to continue this subject, you can do it solo.

[raylawpc]

What did Dan write that was incorrect about Toluco Lopez?
--------------------------------------------------------

I never stated that Dan wrote anything incorrect, I wrote that his opinions were based upon the obeservation of others.
By the way, you pulled the article from the Sept. 2000 CBZ Journal. I contributed to that edition, as well, covering the Tszyu-Chavez fight.
I have never had a problem with stories written by Dan C. But like 99.9% of those who are IBRO members, they "research" the stories of others. One very well known "historian" (Whom I will not name) is a great researcher who will write a paragraph (and provide the source of his information.) This is great, it takes the liability off of him, but often those he quotes have an axe to grind. Keep in mind that the great Nat Fleisher created The Ring Magazine as a promotional device for Madison Square Garden and the fighters they were promoting. He wrote stories that served his purpose, and that of MSG. How many "historians" who have spent their entire life in the mid-west have any actual knowledge or understanding of Mexican fighters, aside from what they read or watch in old films? I didn't grow up in Mexico, but I grew up around the greatest Mexican boxers of the era, as well as the great Mexican-American fighters. This is true of all of us who grew up in boxing in Los Angeles. We aren't in court, Tom. You needn't try to twist the issue to your advantage. If you want to argue, bring it on. I'm not a fan of IBRO, as they often perpetuate the distortion of true boxing history. The problem is, they read something and they run with it, and with almost everybody involved dead, who is there to dispute them.

My opinion of IBRO is that when it comes to boxing history, most of the group are lost balls in high grass. They are threatened by anybody with actual experience. It's just another "Men's Club" for boxing fans, as was the WBHOF before Mando and I cleaned house this year. Guys such as Don C. Tracey Callis, etc. are knowledgeable boxing men and historians, but they do not know everything and their sources are questionable at best when it comes to Mexican boxers and history. Now, I'm moving on. If you care to continue this subject, you can do it solo.

Rick, you are certainly free to believe whatever you want about sports history, sports historians, and the sources that sports historians may be forced to use. That is your right, and I respect your opinion even if I respectfully disagree with you. But please do not accuse me of "twisting the issue to [my] advantage." What the hell is "my advantage??" I don't appreciate the insinuation. THE HAMMER asked for information on Toluco Lopez. I remembered the article on Lopez that Dan wrote, and I posted it. I posted it because I knew that it would be accurate because Dan wrote it.

Reasonable minds can disagree, but I hope in the future we will keep from getting personal with our disagreements.

[Rick Farris]

What did Dan write that was incorrect about Toluco Lopez?
--------------------------------------------------------

I never stated that Dan wrote anything incorrect, I wrote that his opinions were based upon the obeservation of others.
By the way, you pulled the article from the Sept. 2000 CBZ Journal. I contributed to that edition, as well, covering the Tszyu-Chavez fight.
I have never had a problem with stories written by Dan C. But like 99.9% of those who are IBRO members, they "research" the stories of others. One very well known "historian" (Whom I will not name) is a great researcher who will write a paragraph (and provide the source of his information.) This is great, it takes the liability off of him, but often those he quotes have an axe to grind. Keep in mind that the great Nat Fleisher created The Ring Magazine as a promotional device for Madison Square Garden and the fighters they were promoting. He wrote stories that served his purpose, and that of MSG. How many "historians" who have spent their entire life in the mid-west have any actual knowledge or understanding of Mexican fighters, aside from what they read or watch in old films? I didn't grow up in Mexico, but I grew up around the greatest Mexican boxers of the era, as well as the great Mexican-American fighters. This is true of all of us who grew up in boxing in Los Angeles. We aren't in court, Tom. You needn't try to twist the issue to your advantage. If you want to argue, bring it on. I'm not a fan of IBRO, as they often perpetuate the distortion of true boxing history. The problem is, they read something and they run with it, and with almost everybody involved dead, who is there to dispute them.

My opinion of IBRO is that when it comes to boxing history, most of the group are lost balls in high grass. They are threatened by anybody with actual experience. It's just another "Men's Club" for boxing fans, as was the WBHOF before Mando and I cleaned house this year. Now, I'm moving on. If you care to continue this subject, you can do it solo.

Rick, you are certainly free to believe whatever you want about sports history, sports historians, and the sources that sports historians may be forced to use. That is your right, and I respect your opinion even if I respectfully disagree with you. But please do not accuse me of "twisting the issue to [my] advantage." What the hell is "my advantage??" I don't appreciate the insinuation. THE HAMMER asked for information on Toluco Lopez. I remembered the article on Lopez that Dan wrote, and I posted it. I posted it because I knew that it would be accurate because Dan wrote it.

Reasonable minds can disagree, but I hope in the future we will keep from getting personal with our disagreements.

Tom, as a litigator, you work in a profession that hinges on words. You asked me what was "incorrect" about Dan C's story on Toluco Lopez. When did I use the word incorrect? What I stated (and know to be true) is that this writer/historian writes the opinions of others. When asked to defend a statement I never made, I see it as manipulation. I won't be manipulated. My words are right out in the open. They represent my educated opinion, and if you disagree, that's your right. But ask me about my assertation relating to these guys using the opinion of others, not something I did not say. I don't desire an argument with anybody on this forum, but I will not step back from what I know to be correct.
And just for the record, I write this with the greatest of respect foy you.

[raylawpc]

No. 1: I am not a litigator. I haven't tried a case in over 20 years.

No. 2: You made comments that weren't exactly flattering about the "IBRO boys," and I assumed (obviously incorrectly) that you painted Dan with that brush and felt there were elements in Dan's story on Lopez that were incorrect. My experience is that Dan is a careful and meticulous researcher.

I would like to know how I was trying to "twist things to [my] advantage." What the hell advantage is that? What advantage do I get out of "manipulating" you? I don't get paid to do this, and I sure as hell don't need to defend Dan Cuoco. Dan can defend himself, and his friends at the IBRO to boot. He doesn't need my help. Hell, I've considered you, Frank, Brian, Randy, et al. friends. I barely know Dan Cuoco.

You could have ended your earlier post with the sentence, "This is true of all of us who grew up in boxing in Los Angeles." and the response you would have gotten from me would have been, "Thanks for the clarification Rick."

But you choose to jump my sh*t when I didn't deserve it, and I don't appreciate it.

[Rick Farris]

No. 1: I am not a litigator. I haven't tried a case in over 20 years.

No. 2: You made comments that weren't exactly flattering about the "IBRO boys," and I assumed (obviously incorrectly) that you painted Dan with that brush and felt there were elements in Dan's story on Lopex that were incorrect. My experience is that Dan is a careful and meticulous researcher. If I was wrong about him, I wanted to know it.

I would like to know how I was trying to "twist things to [my] advantage." What the hell advantage is that? I don't get paid to do this, and I sure as hell don't need to defend Dan Cuoco. Dan can defend himself, and his friends at the IBRO to boot. He doesn't need my help. Hell, I've had more contact with you and Frank than I have Dan Cuoco.

You could have ended your earlier post with the sentence, "This is true of all of us who grew up in boxing in Los Angeles." and the response you would have gotten from me would have been, "That's for the clarification Rick."

But you choose to jump my sh*t when I didn't deserve it, and I don't appreciate it.

That's my feeling, that you jumped my sh_t. I didn't deserve it, and don't appreciate it.
I have always considered you, and your opinion, with respect. I believe that was reflected thru my inclusion of your suggestions with regard to the WBHOF. Admit this or not, you like to fight a bit. Sometimes you stir things up, and I'm guilty of the same. If you are offended, well, no more than me. I felt a sense of disrespect for my charactor and personal history with the WBHOF, when you posted that "once again Wajima was being overlooked". I told you when he failed to make the ballot last year, I'd see he'd make it this year. I wasn't blowing smoke up your ass, he'll be on the ballot. Becasue I didn't mention his name with the four nominees who'd replace last years winners (bigger names than Wajima), it was because Wajima, and a few others would be added to replace former nominees who failed to get votes on previous years ballots. This is how Wajima makes the cut this year, and a few others. I guess you think I'm a California guy, worse, one who works in the film business with all those up-the-ass phonies, full of BS. Yeah, that's the world I work in, but it's not what defines my charactor. Awhile back, I read a whiney post over Wajima being overlooked. Could you not have asked, "Hey Rick, didn't you say something about Wajima last year?" You'd have learned that Wajima would be put up again. Not because you nominated him, but because he deserves it, and . . . YOU brought his name before ME, and it made sense. So, I used my influence and appreciated the heads-up. Lots of people make suggestions, they petition for Terry Norris, and others. One day, maybe, but not for a long time. I was disappointed you'd assume I am full of crap. I have done everything I have promised or planned to do with regard to honoring the people of this thread. If I say I'm going to do something, I will do EVERYTHING possible to make it happen. I think my track record shows that I have always come thru, to the best of my ability. You can respect or believe in whatever you want. But in boxing, it's best to have an open mind. Your historians serve a purpose, they are the librarians of boxing. We need people to dig up those facts and figures, those stories reflect a great deal, but not always the truth. Legends are not all they are supposed to be.
I consider my source, and when it comes to "certain" facts & figures, I'll rely on the guys of IBRO to provide them. But when it comes to what went on inside the ropes, no way. If you choose to feel disrespected or offended, so be it. But you'll feel it no greater than I.


-Rick Farris

[Rick Farris]

Sad News from the U.K.
-----------------------
I just received this e-mail from Rodolfo "Gato" Gonzalez:



Rick
Yesterday I received an e-mail from Wildhawk and he told me the bad news.
His doctor found cancer in his left lung and a brain tumor. So in your spare time please write him an e-mail. and if you don't have his (e-mail address ) let me know and I'll send it to you


Have a great day

El Gato

[kikibalt]

GUYS!!

[kikibalt]

Sad News from the U.K.
-----------------------
I just received this e-mail from Rodolfo "Gato" Gonzalez:



Rick
Yesterday I received an e-mail from Wildhawk and he told me the bad news.
His doctor found cancer in his left lung and a brain tumor. So in your spare time please write him an e-mail. and if you don't have his (e-mail address ) let me know and I'll send it to you


Have a great day

El Gato

Thats Danny.....

[THEHAMMER321]

Before the internet did anyone who posts on here write in to the various boxing magazines in the readers forums,I was curious because they had some guys like this guy Luther Jackson who was a regular poster who was Larry Holmes number one fan who badmouthed every other heavyweight at the time and others who would make outlandish statements as far as predictions to upcoming bouts.

[raylawpc]

No. 1: I am not a litigator. I haven't tried a case in over 20 years.

No. 2: You made comments that weren't exactly flattering about the "IBRO boys," and I assumed (obviously incorrectly) that you painted Dan with that brush and felt there were elements in Dan's story on Lopex that were incorrect. My experience is that Dan is a careful and meticulous researcher. If I was wrong about him, I wanted to know it.

I would like to know how I was trying to "twist things to [my] advantage." What the hell advantage is that? I don't get paid to do this, and I sure as hell don't need to defend Dan Cuoco. Dan can defend himself, and his friends at the IBRO to boot. He doesn't need my help. Hell, I've had more contact with you and Frank than I have Dan Cuoco.

You could have ended your earlier post with the sentence, "This is true of all of us who grew up in boxing in Los Angeles." and the response you would have gotten from me would have been, "That's for the clarification Rick."

But you choose to jump my sh*t when I didn't deserve it, and I don't appreciate it.

That's my feeling, that you jumped my sh_t. I didn't deserve it, and don't appreciate it.
I have always considered you, and your opinion, with respect. I believe that was reflected thru my inclusion of your suggestions with regard to the WBHOF. Admit this or not, you like to fight a bit. Sometimes you stir things up, and I'm guilty of the same. If you are offended, well, no more than me. I felt a sense of disrespect for my charactor and personal history with the WBHOF, when you posted that "once again Wajima was being overlooked". I told you when he failed to make the ballot last year, I'd see he'd make it this year. I wasn't blowing smoke up your ass, he'll be on the ballot. Becasue I didn't mention his name with the four nominees who'd replace last years winners (bigger names than Wajima), it was because Wajima, and a few others would be added to replace former nominees who failed to get votes on previous years ballots. This is how Wajima makes the cut this year, and a few others. I guess you think I'm a California guy, worse, one who works in the film business with all those up-the-ass phonies, full of BS. Yeah, that's the world I work in, but it's not what defines my charactor. Awhile back, I read a whiney post over Wajima being overlooked. Could you not have asked, "Hey Rick, didn't you say something about Wajima last year?" You'd have learned that Wajima would be put up again. Not because you nominated him, but because he deserves it, and . . . YOU brought his name before ME, and it made sense. So, I used my influence and appreciated the heads-up. Lots of people make suggestions, they petition for Terry Norris, and others. One day, maybe, but not for a long time. I was disappointed you'd assume I am full of crap. I have done everything I have promised or planned to do with regard to honoring the people of this thread. If I say I'm going to do something, I will do EVERYTHING possible to make it happen. I think my track record shows that I have always come thru, to the best of my ability. You can respect or believe in whatever you want. But in boxing, it's best to have an open mind. Your historians serve a purpose, they are the librarians of boxing. We need people to dig up those facts and figures, those stories reflect a great deal, but not always the truth. Legends are not all they are supposed to be.
I consider my source, and when it comes to facts & figures, I'll rely on the guys of IBRO to provide them. But when it comes to what went on inside the ropes, no way. If you choose to feel disrespected or offended, so be it. But you'll feel it no greater than I.


-Rick Farris

Rick, I apologize about the Wajima thing since I clearly offended you. You are right; he deserves to be on the ballot because he deserves it, and my frustration about him not being on the ballot prompted my response. I did not think you were "full of crap." Honestly. I did not mean it as an attack on your character. But I can see how you would have taken it that way. I sincerely apologize and ask your forgiveness. Indeed, had you jumped my sh*t then, I would have deserved it, and I would have immediately apologized. I hope you will accept that belated apology now.

But I add that I do not think I did anything to justify you accusing me of twisting things to my advantage or trying to manipulate you. I consider you, Frank, Randy and Brian, among others on this thread, to be my friends - why would I try to twist or manipulate you or any of them for the advantage of Dan Cuoco, whom I barely know?

BTW, I appreciated the addition to your previous message. I respect you, too.

[dagosd2000]

THIS OLD HOUSE

I broke a tooth in Michoacan, so today I decided to go to my dentist in Tijuana to patch up the hole in my mouth. I've been seeing Ana,my dentist, for the last ten years. I have dental insurance through the school,but like a lot of dental plans through the government the coverage isn't that good. There's a deductible. You have to go to certain dentists. They make an appointment for you so you wait a month. Ana always takes me in. Her small office is located across from a school where she sends her two girls. I've brought her books in English to help her daughters learn the language. She even has a one of my paintings of Pancho Villa in her office. We're friends.She does great work. I had a new bridge put in and two teeth extracted for 200 bucks. It was done in three hours.

I went with my wife.She waited at our daughter's place in Canon Jhonson. My daughter has been living there for almost 40 years. With her husband they raised three girls. All of my grand daughters have made me a great grandparent. While I was waiting to get my new teeth,I went to my daughters apartment. I used to live in the apartment next door when my kids were little. I was working as the garden shop manager at Two Guys department Store. Those were hard times,but we were always happy. At least most of the time. I pushed myself to get out of Canon Jhonson. Wanted to start my kids in school on this side. When I began to work in the Weights And Measures Department for the County Of San Diego ,I moved out. But the daughter who lives in Canon Jhonson went back.She married a guy from the neighborhood. He liked drinking too much. They're still together,but he hasn't quenched his thirst yet.They'll never be able to get out of Canon Jhonson at this stage of their lives.

When I arrived at her place ,my daughter was very nice as always. My wife was there ,but my daughter wanted to make me something to eat. I ate some tamales she made for Christmas. Then she asked if I wanted to take nap as I waited for the new chompers. I decide to lie down on a bed in the living room. How many times have I seen poor homes where every room in the house is a bedroom.

I didn't close my eyes. I looked around the room and it reminded me of 40 years ago when we were all living in a similar way. We lived next door back then. Small apartment with a low ceiling.A light bulb hanging .No closets. A toilet outside. Paying rent on something that was so run down you didn't care if the landlord fixed anything because you felt it was your fault for living in a place like that in the first anyway.

It was like Canon Jhonson hadn't changed. The apartment hadn't changed. The people had gotten older and the young people were going to grow up like the older ones. One day you wake up in Canon Jhonson and wonder how things got away from you. I know I could never be happy living there.

After waiting an hour,I told my wife I was going back to the dentist to pick up my new teeth. Before leaving,I asked if there were any kids around. My daughter pointed towards the cramped kitchen. Sitting there was my grand daughter Erika,her husband,and my youngest great grandson,Erik. I walked towards him.His mother was holding him.
"Feliz ano nuevo Erik,"I said smiling.
I looked around. Everyone was smiling at Erik. I decided I didn't want to go back to the dentist just quite then.

[dagosd2000]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6mBjXS4_dE

The Sky Is Crying

Albert King

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

The Sky Is Crying

Elmore James

[Rick Farris]

No. 1: I am not a litigator. I haven't tried a case in over 20 years.

No. 2: You made comments that weren't exactly flattering about the "IBRO boys," and I assumed (obviously incorrectly) that you painted Dan with that brush and felt there were elements in Dan's story on Lopex that were incorrect. My experience is that Dan is a careful and meticulous researcher. If I was wrong about him, I wanted to know it.

I would like to know how I was trying to "twist things to [my] advantage." What the hell advantage is that? I don't get paid to do this, and I sure as hell don't need to defend Dan Cuoco. Dan can defend himself, and his friends at the IBRO to boot. He doesn't need my help. Hell, I've had more contact with you and Frank than I have Dan Cuoco.

You could have ended your earlier post with the sentence, "This is true of all of us who grew up in boxing in Los Angeles." and the response you would have gotten from me would have been, "That's for the clarification Rick."

But you choose to jump my sh*t when I didn't deserve it, and I don't appreciate it.

That's my feeling, that you jumped my sh_t. I didn't deserve it, and don't appreciate it.
I have always considered you, and your opinion, with respect. I believe that was reflected thru my inclusion of your suggestions with regard to the WBHOF. Admit this or not, you like to fight a bit. Sometimes you stir things up, and I'm guilty of the same. If you are offended, well, no more than me. I felt a sense of disrespect for my charactor and personal history with the WBHOF, when you posted that "once again Wajima was being overlooked". I told you when he failed to make the ballot last year, I'd see he'd make it this year. I wasn't blowing smoke up your ass, he'll be on the ballot. Becasue I didn't mention his name with the four nominees who'd replace last years winners (bigger names than Wajima), it was because Wajima, and a few others would be added to replace former nominees who failed to get votes on previous years ballots. This is how Wajima makes the cut this year, and a few others. I guess you think I'm a California guy, worse, one who works in the film business with all those up-the-ass phonies, full of BS. Yeah, that's the world I work in, but it's not what defines my charactor. Awhile back, I read a whiney post over Wajima being overlooked. Could you not have asked, "Hey Rick, didn't you say something about Wajima last year?" You'd have learned that Wajima would be put up again. Not because you nominated him, but because he deserves it, and . . . YOU brought his name before ME, and it made sense. So, I used my influence and appreciated the heads-up. Lots of people make suggestions, they petition for Terry Norris, and others. One day, maybe, but not for a long time. I was disappointed you'd assume I am full of crap. I have done everything I have promised or planned to do with regard to honoring the people of this thread. If I say I'm going to do something, I will do EVERYTHING possible to make it happen. I think my track record shows that I have always come thru, to the best of my ability. You can respect or believe in whatever you want. But in boxing, it's best to have an open mind. Your historians serve a purpose, they are the librarians of boxing. We need people to dig up those facts and figures, those stories reflect a great deal, but not always the truth. Legends are not all they are supposed to be.
I consider my source, and when it comes to facts & figures, I'll rely on the guys of IBRO to provide them. But when it comes to what went on inside the ropes, no way. If you choose to feel disrespected or offended, so be it. But you'll feel it no greater than I.


-Rick Farris

Rick, I apologize about the Wajima thing since I clearly offended you. You are right; he deserves to be on the ballot because he deserves it, and my frustration about him not being on the ballot prompted my response. I did not think you were "full of crap." Honestly. I did not mean it as an attack on your character. But I can see how you would have taken it that way. I sincerely apologize and ask your forgiveness. Indeed, had you jumped my sh*t then, I would have deserved it, and I would have immediately apologized. I hope you will accept that belated apology now.

But I add that I do not think I did anything to justify you accusing me of twisting things to my advantage or trying to manipulate you. I consider you, Frank, Randy and Brian, among others on this thread, to be my friends - why would I try to twist or manipulate you or any of them for the advantage of Dan Cuoco, whom I barely know?

BTW, I appreciated the addition to your previous message. I respect you, too.

I apologize for my part in this. Let's put it behind us.

[Rick Farris]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6mBjXS4_dE

The Sky Is Crying

Albert King

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

The Sky Is Crying

Elmore James

Roger, I saw Albert King in his final appearance. It was in 1992, at the Reseda Country Club where the Goossen's used to hold monthly boxing cards.
It was a Sunday night, and he was brilliant. Two days later, he was dead.

[Rick Farris]

"The Wrestler"

I finally watched this movie, starring Mickey Rourke.
I have to say he did a great job. He deserved the Academy consideration he received.
Very cold film, shot down & dirty, but it worked. My opinion.

[bennie]

"The Wrestler"

I finally watched this movie, starring Mickey Rourke.
I have to say he did a great job. He deserved the Academy consideration he received.
Very cold film, shot down & dirty, but it worked. My opinion.

I remember Duran, after he pulled out against Pat Lawlor, claiming he injured his shoulder sparring Rourke.
Give Roberto his due, he has a great sense of humour.

[bennie]

Snow, snow, snow...

[kikibalt]

Thanks guys!

[kikibalt]

Snow, snow, snow...

Thanks Bennie for the photos of your dogs walking in the snow, great photos...

[scartissue]

That's my feeling, that you jumped my sh_t. I didn't deserve it, and don't appreciate it.
I have always considered you, and your opinion, with respect. I believe that was reflected thru my inclusion of your suggestions with regard to the WBHOF. Admit this or not, you like to fight a bit. Sometimes you stir things up, and I'm guilty of the same. If you are offended, well, no more than me. I felt a sense of disrespect for my charactor and personal history with the WBHOF, when you posted that "once again Wajima was being overlooked". I told you when he failed to make the ballot last year, I'd see he'd make it this year. I wasn't blowing smoke up your ass, he'll be on the ballot. Becasue I didn't mention his name with the four nominees who'd replace last years winners (bigger names than Wajima), it was because Wajima, and a few others would be added to replace former nominees who failed to get votes on previous years ballots. This is how Wajima makes the cut this year, and a few others. I guess you think I'm a California guy, worse, one who works in the film business with all those up-the-ass phonies, full of BS. Yeah, that's the world I work in, but it's not what defines my charactor. Awhile back, I read a whiney post over Wajima being overlooked. Could you not have asked, "Hey Rick, didn't you say something about Wajima last year?" You'd have learned that Wajima would be put up again. Not because you nominated him, but because he deserves it, and . . . YOU brought his name before ME, and it made sense. So, I used my influence and appreciated the heads-up. Lots of people make suggestions, they petition for Terry Norris, and others. One day, maybe, but not for a long time. I was disappointed you'd assume I am full of crap. I have done everything I have promised or planned to do with regard to honoring the people of this thread. If I say I'm going to do something, I will do EVERYTHING possible to make it happen. I think my track record shows that I have always come thru, to the best of my ability. You can respect or believe in whatever you want. But in boxing, it's best to have an open mind. Your historians serve a purpose, they are the librarians of boxing. We need people to dig up those facts and figures, those stories reflect a great deal, but not always the truth. Legends are not all they are supposed to be.
I consider my source, and when it comes to facts & figures, I'll rely on the guys of IBRO to provide them. But when it comes to what went on inside the ropes, no way. If you choose to feel disrespected or offended, so be it. But you'll feel it no greater than I.


-Rick Farris

Rick, I apologize about the Wajima thing since I clearly offended you. You are right; he deserves to be on the ballot because he deserves it, and my frustration about him not being on the ballot prompted my response. I did not think you were "full of crap." Honestly. I did not mean it as an attack on your character. But I can see how you would have taken it that way. I sincerely apologize and ask your forgiveness. Indeed, had you jumped my sh*t then, I would have deserved it, and I would have immediately apologized. I hope you will accept that belated apology now.

But I add that I do not think I did anything to justify you accusing me of twisting things to my advantage or trying to manipulate you. I consider you, Frank, Randy and Brian, among others on this thread, to be my friends - why would I try to twist or manipulate you or any of them for the advantage of Dan Cuoco, whom I barely know?

BTW, I appreciated the addition to your previous message. I respect you, too.

I apologize for my part in this. Let's put it behind us.

Guys, my computer crashed a couple of days ago and as an info junkie I've been frothing at the mouth for my fix. Got to use a work PC today and just catching up and reading this ongoing post. And it makes me proud to be a part of this message board when intelligent discussion supercedes the flame-wars I see on other sites. The only thing better than this site is sitting across from you guys with a bottle of suds in hand talking boxing.

Scartissue

[scartissue]

"The Wrestler"

I finally watched this movie, starring Mickey Rourke.
I have to say he did a great job. He deserved the Academy consideration he received.
Very cold film, shot down & dirty, but it worked. My opinion.

Rick, just saw this flick myself the other day. Man, you're right, what a good flick. Amazing how I always remember Roarke as that skinny kid in diner. What a bulk-up job.

Scartissue

[kikibalt]

Dan...How is popz?

[scartissue]

Sad News from the U.K.
-----------------------
I just received this e-mail from Rodolfo "Gato" Gonzalez:



Rick
Yesterday I received an e-mail from Wildhawk and he told me the bad news.
His doctor found cancer in his left lung and a brain tumor. So in your spare time please write him an e-mail. and if you don't have his (e-mail address ) let me know and I'll send it to you


Have a great day

El Gato

Oh, man, that is bad news. Danny is a good guy. I will indeed drop him a line.

Scartissue

[kikibalt]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h6mBjXS4_dE

The Sky Is Crying

Albert King

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

The Sky Is Crying

Elmore James

Two all time greats and two of my favorites blues-mens

Thanks for the post Roger

[scartissue]

Dan...How is popz?

Doing great, thanks for asking, Frankie. I go see him 4 or 5 times a week. My week usually is run out to see him (he's about 25 minutes from me), make sure he's OK, check all his supplies, make sure he's drinking his water, get his prescriptions filled, make up his medicine for the week, take him for some appointment (could be blood-test, doctor, podiatrist, optometrist, etc.) take him out to dinner at least once a week and remind him to go to mass. Then I exhale. See what people have in store for us when we hit 85?

Scartissue