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QC04072016

54 The QUEE NS Courier • APRIL 7, 2016 for breaking news visit www.qns.com sports One Final Round: From young boxing enthusiast to Hall of Famer Rappaport Family and Gerry Cooney BY MIGUEL VASQUEZ His dream became his passion. His passion became a reality. This man is none other than Dennis Rappaport, a dedicated businessman, and a lover of boxing. His love of the sport began when he was a small child. He would not trade that in for anything in the world. After being asked how he felt about being inducted into the New York Boxing Hall of Fame, Rappaport had only words of joy and utter elation: “My 63-year love affair with boxing began at the age of 6. Boxing is poetry in motion, it’s art a Shakespearean play, a Picasso or a Rembrandt…It’s a pleasure being gratified today alongside some truly great people.” Rappaport is widely known for being one of the most hardworking people in the business. In the words of boxing matchmaker, Don Majeski, “He is one of the greatest managers and he has revolutionized the sport.” He has promoted/managed bigtime names from George Foreman to Howard Davis Jr. and even his fellow 2016 HOF inductee, the late Hector Camacho. Throughout his career, Rappaport has been known for his creative publicity tactics that guaranteed his fighters the opportunities he knew they deserved. He used his grit and tenacity to go out of his way for his fighters, in order for them to be able to showcase their talents. After decades of living his dream and reaching the top of the mountain, Rappaport is grateful to boxing, for all that it has given him. “Thank you to the entire boxing fraternity for so many priceless moments and unforgettable experiences.” To his family however, he is a father first, and his son, Tony Rappaport, knows that better than anyone. “My father is extraordinary for the honor and integrity that he has taught me throughout my entire life. To me, he has been a true champion and the greatest coach of all time.” This afternoon of inductees venerating boxers, announcers and managers alikeincluding Aaron “Superman” Davis, Rocky Graziano and Howard Cosell, was a marvelous sight. Friends and family all joined together, in support of one of the most thrilling sports and the members of the industry that make it possible. To Dennis Rappaport, and his fellow boxing lovers, it is so much more than just a sport. Boxing is family; boxing is tradition and culture. It is the highest form of entertainment and excitement for all lucky enough to witness it. Photos by Miguel Vasquez Daughter and grandson of Rocky Graziano Aaron Davis signing gloves


QC04072016
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