In front of a crowd of 60 community leaders, family, boxing fans and Big Fresno Fair leadership, the life-size statue of José Ramirez was revealed in the Fresno County Historical Museum at the Fresno Fairgrounds. The statue was commissioned by Fresno artist Debbie Stevenson. Adding to the celebration of the day, Avenal local, John Bowers was on hand to donate José’s champion belt on behalf of another Avenal native, Chris Gamber who purchased it and decided to donate it to the Fresno County Historical Museum to be displayed as part of the exhibit.
Sharing heartfelt remarks about the undisputed WBC and WBO Super Lightweight World Champion were Fresno County Board Supervisor Sal Quintero, Fresno Police Chief Jerry Dyer, The Big Fresno Fair CEO John C. Alkire, Agent and Promoter Rick Mirigian, and Manuel Cunha.
When the Champ addressed the crowd filled with his family and fans, he got a bit emotional sharing stories about his start in boxing and the meaning of this exhibit, which he can’t wait to share with his son.
“Today was an incredible event honoring an incredible person – José Ramirez,” said John C. Alkire, CEO The Big Fresno Fair. “We could not be more proud of the man you are, both in the ring and outside. You are an example for our youth, for us and someone our community is extremely proud of. We could not be more excited for this addition to our Museum for our community to enjoy and for future generations to learn about your impact and legacy – which still continues to be written.”
Through all the remarks today, one thing was constant, praise for José’s character and determination. In addition to his Valley fans and supporters, praise from his boxing community filled the day.
“Jose Ramirez’s love for the Central Valley is evident through his many charitable endeavors,” said Top Rank chairman Bob Arum. “We are proud of José Ramirez the champion, but even prouder of the man he is outside the ring.”
John Alkire acknowledged the efforts of Mirigian to make the boxing exhibit in the Fresno County Historical Museum a reality, stating “we couldn’t have gotten all of this memorabilia and created this space without your help.”
“It’s incredible what John and the Fair has done for José – thank you. I hope to see the Museum filled with more items from throughout his career and I am committed to helping how I can,” said Rick Mirigian, Agent and Promoter for José.
The statue along with the champion belt will be on display in the Fresno County Historical Museum in time for the 2019 Big Fresno Fair, which runs October 2-14. For more information on the Museum go to www.FresnoFair.com/FresnoCountyMuseum
