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| Wednesday, July 12 Kudos to Graham for Arguello column ESPN.com |
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In the weeks since ESPN.com's Tim Graham sat down with former champion and Nicaraguan hero Alexis Arguello to discuss the fighter's storied past, present and future, we received plenty of user mail about the column. Here are some of the best e-mails.
I am saddened to hear of Alexis Arguello's recent problems. I am also happy to hear that he is dealing with them. I met him once, long after his career was over. He asked me if I was Danny "Little Red" Lopez, probably because I have red hair. I told him I was not. He shook my hand anyway and treated me with respect, unlike a lot of today's fighters. I just want Alexis to know that he is still a champion even without a title. I used to fight as a bantamweight (amateur) in the late-'70s. I was certainly not at his level, but could appreciate his skills, conditioning and heart. I hope this message finds Alexis in good health and helps to motivate him in his pursuit of happiness. Gilbert Montoya Las Vegas, Nev.
I truly enjoyed the article about boxing legend Alexis Arguello. As it has been said, the greatness of a man is measured by his ability to get up while down, and Alexis is becoming a living example for anyone who's been addicted to drugs. An example that one can change if the one puts in the effort. Arguello's grace in the ring truly contrasts with many of today's top fighters such as Mike Tyson and others. Alexis was a true gentleman in and out of the ring, and he will always be among boxing's greats. A few days ago I watched one of boxing's greatest fights: Arguello-Pryor I, and wondered what would have been the outcome if today's rules had been applied (12-round bout)? Perhaps Arguello would have prevailed. By the way, a few weeks ago I had the chance to meet Arguello in person at a local tennis tournament, and I was very glad to notice a healthier and happier man.
I look forward to future articles such as this one.
Great article, glad to hear Alexis is doing well, hope it continues. Always enjoyed watching him fight and always was in his corner. He was a great champion. Fights with Boom Boom Mancini were great. Disappointed about losses to the Hawk, but he was moving up in weight. The article was great, thanks. Charles Steadman Washington, Pa.
Thank you for this most informative article on Alexis Arguello. I always wonder what happens to those great athletes after retirement. They disappear from the limelight never to return to our sight or mind unless a good sports reporter brings them back to life in print -- although sometimes on TV they feature great fights and games of the past with athlete profiles. It is a good thing to remember and be remembered. Joseph Oviedo Texas
After reading your column on Alexis Arguello, I had to force myself to stop crying. Alexis has been and will always be to me the greatest at 126, 130 and 135 pounds. I have looked at every fight that he fought that was recorded and still love the one against Boom Boom Mancini as his greatest. I hope that he truly gets his life back on track and hope that he has a prosperous life, both financially and emotionally. Michael Agostini Silver Spring, Md.
The article on Alexis Arguello was both insightful and sad. But it was very well written and hopefully Arguello can continue with his sobriety. It is also a meaningful article that reveals how much celebrity that we place on athletes in today's society. The higher you hold someone up the longer the fall will be when you're not there to hold them. Today's younger athletes need to take heed and not get too caught up in their own celebrity. Duncan W. Harrison Princeton, N.J.
The column by Graham on Arguello was excellent. His narrative was very engaging, and you can see Graham has great insight into the significance of the story. Not only because Arguello was one the greatest men to grace the sport, but because his story reflects one of the most tragic elements of the sport. Boxing legends have a tendency to fade out just as easily as they achieve glory. Arguello's story speaks of hope. It allowed us to see the fighter as a man, a human being. Thanks. Hal Fuentes Chicago, Ill.
I am a true boxing fan. I love the sport's history and the almost mythical aura surrounding great fights and fighters. I was sad to read of the plight of Alexis Arguello. He was always one of my favorites. In his career he exuded championship charisma and class. This is true of many of boxing's greats. There is no million dollar job as a TV commentator or analyst waiting at the end of a thrilling career in the spotlight. Frequently there is no money in the bank either. It is no wonder that this is a typical theme in the boxing world. I would love to read more in-depth stories of the "where are they now" variety. Rocky Balderston Elkridge, Md.
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