Cutman -Dedicated to Legendary Cornerman Al Gavin: May 2009

"Al Gavin was what was good about boxing. He worked to learn his trade the right way. You never heard from Al, 'I can do this or I can do that.' He let the results speak for him.

If I had a kid I couldn't be with,but wanted him taken care of, I could put him with Al, and he'd be taken care of. He would look out for the kid. He would be treated like a son by Al.

Al Gavin gave and demanded respect,every where he went.
There is no doubt in my mind he should and will be in the Hall of fame. God Bless him."
-Angelo Dundee, Hall-of-Fame trainer who handled Muhammad Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard and is now in Jimmy Lange's corner.

About Al Gavin

During his 50-plus year career in boxing, Al worked the corner in 110 world title fights. As part-owner of the Gramercy Gym in NYC and later as a staple at Gleason's, his clientele ranged from club fighters and golden glovers to celebrities and world champions, such as Lennox Lewis and Oscar de la Hoya. In 1999, Al and his long-time gym partner Bob Jackson received the James J. Walker Award for "Long and Meritorious Service to Boxing." Al passed away on July 8th, 2004. He has yet to be inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Al Gavin Facts and Trivia

Al boxed as an amateur until age 18.
He trained young fighters for the PAL in the 50's and 60's.
Al commenced a boxing program for the National Maritime Union.
In 1968, he re-opened the Gramercy Gym on 14th St in NYC with another boxing legend and friend, Bob Jackson.
Al learned his craft from some of the best: Chickie Ferrera, John Sulo and Tony Canzi.
It is estimated that Al worked the corner for over 3,000 professional fights.
Al was inducted into the NJ Boxing Hall of Fame in 2006
In 2003, Al appeared in the role of a referee in the boxing film "Undefeated" starring John Leguizamo.
Al has been featured in many major newspapers and magazines such as The New York Times, The NY Daily News, Ring Magazine and Newsday.
Was named one of the 100 Greatest Irish-Americans in 2003 by IrishAmerica Magazine.
"The Cutman" has been interviewed by many TV and Radio outlets including ESPN, MSG and Hard Copy and made a video for the NYS Boxing Commission on the proper technique of wrapping fighters' hands and the essential and professional use of the tools of the trade.

Saturday, May 2, 2009

Montage - A Half Century In Boxing

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