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by David P. Greisman - He was loved because of his name — Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., the son of the Mexican legend, the namesake of a man who was a world titleholder in three divisions and the true lineal champion in two, a Hall of Famer, an all-time great, a national icon and an inspiration to a generation of fighters. They would follow Junior because of who he was, or rather because of who his father was to them.
He was derided because of his name as well, a son who never could follow in his father’s formidable footsteps but who would be compensated well anyway, receiving opportunities and paydays that never would have been available to another boxer with the same skill level and a different bloodline. He would be afforded attention but not respect, seen as a child of privilege who would take full advantage of status that didn’t match his stature.
The reality, as it often does, lies somewhere in-between.
Chavez Jr. became more than a novelty. His stint as a world titleholder was dubious, but he was a legitimate contender, even if a limited one. He achieved more than had ever been expected of him. In more than a decade as a pro, he had demonstrated more grit and talent than many other sons who take to the ring after their famous fathers, kin who often lace up the gloves to cash in rather than doing so out of passion.
He also manipulated the system when possible and reaped the benefits of a sport that loved Senior and lusted for the money that could be made with Junior. [Click Here To Read More]
He was derided because of his name as well, a son who never could follow in his father’s formidable footsteps but who would be compensated well anyway, receiving opportunities and paydays that never would have been available to another boxer with the same skill level and a different bloodline. He would be afforded attention but not respect, seen as a child of privilege who would take full advantage of status that didn’t match his stature.
The reality, as it often does, lies somewhere in-between.
Chavez Jr. became more than a novelty. His stint as a world titleholder was dubious, but he was a legitimate contender, even if a limited one. He achieved more than had ever been expected of him. In more than a decade as a pro, he had demonstrated more grit and talent than many other sons who take to the ring after their famous fathers, kin who often lace up the gloves to cash in rather than doing so out of passion.
He also manipulated the system when possible and reaped the benefits of a sport that loved Senior and lusted for the money that could be made with Junior. [Click Here To Read More]
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