Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, former champion of the World Boxing Association, and next immortal figure of the Canastota Hall of Fame, celebrates a new birthday today.

Mancini was born in Ohio in 1961 under the name Raymond Michal Mancino.

He practiced boxing since early childhood as he was the son of a boxer.

He became WBA world champion on May 8, 1982 when he defeated Arturo Frias in New York.

Always marked by tragedy of his first defense, after the death of his challenger Duk Koo Kim, who died after the fight, Mancini kept fighting but was never the same in the ring.

Currently, Mancini is an entrepreneur and gives speeches about his experience as a boxer, and of life. He makes emphasis on the safety of the athlete, and his commitment during his preparation. his mission is to raise awareness in athletes who listen to him.

For all his achievements during his career, this year he will be inducted into the Canastota Boxing Hall of Fame 2015 induction ceremony.

Undoubtedly, Mancini is an example of victories, a model of champion and a very important part of the WBA Family.