This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/27/2009
Offered is a pair of mint, still sealed NOS signature endorsed black boxing gloves. What make them special is that they feature a 3x4 picture of Rocky on both sides of the header card and bear his facsimile signature and remain in factory fresh condition with only minor storage wear to the card. Graziano was world boxing champion, and he fought Tony Zale in one of boxing's most storied rivalries ever. He also fought Sugar Ray Robinson, losing by early knockout in three rounds. In his early days, he fought Mickey Caderelli. In 1948 the National Boxing Association indefinitely suspended Graziano in all parts of the world under NBA supervision, announced President Abe Green, following similar action by the California State Athletic Commission. This was due to Graziano's "running out" on a scheduled Dec. 1 bout with Fred Apostoli. The suspension covered all of the American states, Great Britain, the European Boxing Federation, Cuba, Mexico, and Canada. Almost two years earlier, Graziano had been suspended by the NYSAC for failure to report an alleged bribe attempt. Boxing promoter Ralph Tribuani got Graziano a license in Delaware, where the allegations were perceived as ridiculous. This led to the reinstatement of Graziano by both the NBA and NYSAC and Rocky’s return to prosperity.
After his retirement from boxing, he became a well-known television comedian, participating in the Martha Raye Show for a number of years, and co-hosting a short-lived series titled The Henny and Rocky Show with famous comedian Henny Youngman. Paul Newman portrayed him in the 1956 film Somebody Up There Likes Me as having an abusive childhood and criminal background, using boxing as an outlet for his violent behavior. A great display piece. Estimate $250. Collection of MEARS Staff