June 15, 2011 San Antonio honored its boxing past: San Antonio boxing hall of fame inducted its first class champions Robert Quiroga, John Michael Johnson, Jessie James Leija and Corner men Joe Sousa and Tony Ayala Sr. It was a day of unity remembering the past upcoming fight cards in July were also on the minds. There was also a hint of future SR JO national champ was present who considers Salina Barrios a role model.

Robert Quiroga inducted was mentioned in both the speeches of John Michael Johnson, Jessie James Leija as the pioneer the one who blazed the trail. Robert’s daughter accepted the honor. John Michael Johnson was being remembered and saluted for his role in boxing. Jessie James Leija knowing the factious nature of boxing vocalized a call for 1 local boxing community a reduction in the clannishness also pointing out families of fighters and champions are a breed a part.

Then it was time for the sweet humor who could not miss the irony now made sweet with time: Ayala Sr. and Joe both were unable to attend for the same reason both inducted on the same day enter a legendary ring announcer who did not need a microphone 80s flashback humor introducing in the red corner……and in the blue corner after this ring announcer announced the induction of the three champions from San Antonio. As an old boxing fan from New Braunfels it could not get any better the humor displayed had everybody laughing!

Ivan Najara fighting twice locally in July, (details later) Carlin having Cantu face real opposition Sanchez v Tiggs upcoming awesome! With Crystal Gonzales the future represented as well.