- Ronnie Harris
Ronnie W. "Mazel" Harris (born in
Canton, Ohio ) is a former American boxer, who won a gold medal in thelightweight division at the1968 Summer Olympics .Personal
Harris is a follower of the Jewish Faith. One day while doing roadwork, Harris was hit by a car. He claimed that he was asked to forget the whole thing by a member of the clergy. Harris said he became religiouly lost, until he stumbled into a Jewish Temple. Harris changed his faith and took the nickname "Mazel" which means good luck. He also wore a
Star of David on his boxing trunks.There are photos of Harris wearing a Hebrew skullcap in the ring. He even brought a law suit against promoters in New York who had pro fights on a Friday Night; the Sabbath, a night in which Harris could not work.
Amateur career
Harris had an outstanding amateur career, winning the 1966, 1967, and 1968 National AAU Lightweight championship. He later was the 1968 Olympic Gold Medalist at 132 pounds.
Pro career
Harris turned pro in 1971 was undefeated until 1978, but had a dull style. He was not a fan favorite, but was highly respected for his ring skills. In 1978 he took on WBC and WBA middleweight title holder
Hugo Pastor Corro , but lost a decision. He retired in 1982.External links
* [http://www.databaseolympics.com/players/playerpage.htm?ilkid=HARRIRON01 databaseOlympics]
References
Wikimedia Foundation. 2010.
