By David Martinez / Boxing Historian / www.dmboxing.com
As my parents and many family members (uncles, aunts, and cousins) are from New Mexico, I have had people ask me which boxers are my favorites, or the best fighters, from that state .
As I rate them, my top three are Bob Foster, Johnny Tapia, and Art Aragon.
Also, Danny Romero and Austin Trout are the honorable mention picks that round out my top five; and I have certainly been blessed to have met them all .
BOB FOSTER
Known as the Albuquerque, “Deputy Sheriff”, he was one of the greatest light heavyweight champions in boxing history . WBA / WBC world champion from 1968 to 1974.
Inducted into the Ring Boxing Hall of Fame in 1983, the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 1984 and the International Boxing Hall of Fame in the inaugural class of 1990 .
JOHNNY TAPIA
Known as “Mi Vida Loca” (“My Crazy Life”), he held multiple world titles in three weight classes: IBF / WBO super flyweight champion; WBA / WBO bantamweight champion; and IBF featherweight champion .
Inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame Posthumous Category in 2017.
ART ARAGON
Known as the original “Golden Boy”. As a lightweight, he fought the toughest competition in a career that spanned from 1944 to 1960. He was a main draw in Los Angeles at the Hollywood Legion Stadium, Olympic Auditorium, and Wrigley Field.
Inducted into the World Boxing Hall of Fame in 1990.