Cruz Marcano ~ The Boxer that they called 'El Loco"

Cruz Marcano

The 'talented' Venezuelan boxer that they called 'Crazy'.

https://sp.yimg.com/ib/th?id=JN.FMHW...g&pid=15.1&P=0

A supposed 'undefeated' amateur career record of 79-0 with {43 KO's}, which
included numerous Tournament wins.

A can't miss prospect, who turned professional at {Age; 20 years, 5 months}
on August 19, 1966 under the guidance of Ramiro Machado.

In his 'Professional Debut', Crus flattened Modesto Santos by a KO 4.

Cruz would go on to defeat Modesto a total of '3-times' in his career.

By February 22, 1968 >

Cruz had compiled an 'unbeaten' record of > 12-0-2 with {9 KO's}, with 'spotty' Draws
with Julio Cesar Cordova and Edmundo Martinez.

Friday ~ February 23, 1968

Nuevo Circo ~ Caracas, Venezuela

* Cruz Marcano - 12-0-2 {9 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 124 lbs. ~ {Age; 21 years, 11 months}
vs.
* Rolando 'Jet' Parker - 21-3-3 {4 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 123 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 9 months}
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

This was Cruz Marcano's 'big showcase' bout.

The highly-touted Venezuelan from Cumana was being promoted as a 'future' Featherweight
and Super-Featherweight Champion.

'El Loco' was Promoted by Ramiro Machado, and Trained by Heli Montes.

His opponent, was an equally talented fighter in, Filipino - Rolando 'Jet' Parker, a
fast-handed boxer with great 'hand-speed', technique and charisma.

'Jet' was the #2 Filipino Bantamweight, but was moving up to Featherweight.

It was a match-up between, a 'heavy-handed' puncher versus a 'lightning-quick' boxer.

An agreed upon weight of {124 lbs.} was set for the 10-Round bout.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Cruz Marcano Chases 'Jet' Parker in 10-Round Track Meet ~

'Highly-touted' Venezuelan - Cruz Marcano {126 lbs.} literally chased fleet-footed 'Jet' Parker {123 lbs.}
around the Nuevo Circo Ring for 10-Rounds, en-route to Unanimous 10-Rond Decision.

Marcano using constant pressure and heavy-hands, man-handled the little Filipino from the 3rd-Round
and on, and at times 'literally' chased the quick visitor around the square Ring.

'Jet' Parker, was able to score with quick left-jabs and right-hand leads during the first 2-Rounds over the
big-punching Venezuelan. But in Round 3, Parker waked into a big right-hook, and was nearly floored
'twice' in the Round.

From that point on, The Filipino was on his bicycle and avoided any exchanges with Marcano.

The Venezuelan tried to trap Parker in the Corner or on the Ropes many times, but the Filipino used
his quick moves and elusiveness to escape and survive the full-distance.

Scorecards
* 97-93 >
* 98-94 >
* 98-94 >

Thursday ~ November 14, 1968

Nuevo Circo ~ Caracas, Venezuela

{#18 WBA} - Cruz Marcano ~ 16-0-2 {11 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 127 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 8 months}
vs.
{#10 WBC} - Silverio 'Chamaco' Ortiz- 53-15-7 {29 KO's} ~ 5' 7" ~ 127 lbs. ~ {Age; 28 years, 1 month}
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

This will be Cruz Marcano's most difficult and experienced opponent of his young career.

Silverio Ortiz is a dangerous-punching veteran from Merida, Mexico.

Silverio is now one the 'hottest' Featherweights in Mexico, as 'Chamaco' has gone 20-1-3
in his last 24-bouts dating back to January 1966.

Silverio is 'no stranger' to Caracas, Venezuela. As only 2-Months earlier he scored an impressive
win {TKO 5} over another 'touted' Venezuelan Featherweight in Freddie 'Cochoco' Rengifo.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ 'El Loco' Marcano Scores Win In 'Wild-Slugfest' Over Mexican Ortiz ~

Venezuelan Star - Cruz Marcano scored a solid 10-Round Decision win over the always tough Mexican
Silverio Ortiz.

Both fighters came in at the 127 lbs. and equal height {5' 7}, but that I where the similarities ended.

The Venezuelan had the heavier-hands, and jarred the 'steel-jawed' Mexican numerous times throughout
the 10-Round bout.

The fans at 'Nuevo Circo' got their moneys worth, as it was 'rock-em sock-em' bout, with both fighters
showing no regard for defense in many of the Rounds, as each exchanged at Center-Ring.

The middle-Rounds {5, 6 and 7} were especially 'wild', as both landed right-hand haymakers.

But it was 'El Loco' who kept coming over the last 3-Rounds, as the visiting veteran Mexican could not
match the power nor the speed of his younger opponent.

Scorecards
* 98-94 > {Cruz Marcano}
* 99-94 > {Cruz Marcano}
* 98-93 > {Cruz Marcano}

December 1968

~ The Featherweights from Venezuela
__________________________________________________ ____________________

Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano

Born ............ March 14, 1946
Home Base .. Cumana, Venezuela
Age ............. 22 years, 9 months
Height ......... 5' 6 1/2"
Style ........... Aggressive Puncher
Record ........ 17-0-2 {11 KO's}
Ranking ...... #10 WBA

Considered by many, as the 'next' fighter to become World Champion
__________________________________________________ ____________________

Nestor 'Razzy' Rojas

Born ............ November 1, 1946
Age ............. 22 years, 1 month
Home Base .. Caracas, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 7"
Style ........... Boxer Technician
Record ........ 18-5-1 {5 KO's}
Rank .......... {Not Rated}

Nestor Rojas has been a Professional since {1965}. Nestor holds a win {W Dec 8} over Antonio Cervantes
on > July 14, 1967 in Caracas, Venezuela.

Nestor lost {L Dec 10} to Antonio Cervantes on November 28, 1968.
__________________________________________________ _______________________________________

Jose Luis 'Pavito' Hernandez

Born ............ May 22, 1944
Age ............. 24 years, 6 months
Home Base .. Caracas, Venezuela {Federal District}
Height ......... 5' 6"
Style ........... Aggressive Puncher
Record ........ 20-1-1 {16 KO's}
Rank ........... #20 WBC

'Pavito' Hernandez was a great Amateur boxer who had compiled a record of 117-4 with {55 KO's}, before
turning Professional in June 1964.

But 'persistent' hand problems {bone fractures} stalled his Pro Career, as he only had '2-Bouts' over the
past 2-Years.

Jose Luis was Trained by Melquiades 'Tabuito' Sanz.
__________________________________________________ ________________________________________

Orlando 'Rando' Ruiz

Born ........... September 11, 1945
Age ............ 23 years, 2 months
Home Base .. Maracaibo, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 8"
Style ........... Southpaw Boxer/Stylist
Record ........ 19-5-3 {4 KO's}
Rank ........... {Not Rated}

Orlando has been a Professional since 1964. The southpaw has been campaigning as a 130 lb. Super-Featherweight,
and has been fighting out of Miami Beach, Florida.

On a 'bad note', Orlando was clobbered {L KO 1} in the 1st-Round by Antonio Cervantes on November 25, 1968.
__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________

Orlando 'Red Viper' Rivas

Born ........... May 22, 1948
Age ............ 20 years, 6 Months
Home Base .. Caracas, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 8"
Style ........... Fast Boxer ~ Defensive Specialist
Record ........ 11-1-1 {3 KO's}
Rank ........... {Not Rated}

Orlando has only been a Professional for less than 2-Years.
__________________________________________________ ______________________________

Francisco Bolivar

Born ........... May 24, 1940
Age ............ 28 years, 6 months
Home Base .. Caracas, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 6 1/2"
Style ........... Aggressive Puncher/Boxer
Record ........ 46-7-1 {25 KO's}
Rank .......... #26 WBC

A 'smart-and-cagey' 9-Year Professional, who can either punch or box, depending on the opponent.
__________________________________________________ _______________________________________

Diego 'Chita' Tovar

Born ............ October 1, 1949
Age ............. 19 years, 3 months
Home Base .. Caracas, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 7 1/2"
Style ............ Boxer / Counter-Puncher
Record ......... 11-0-0 {4 KO's}
Rank ........... {Not Rated}

A very fast-handed boxer. A 'highly-touted' Featherweight prospect from 'The Federal District' of Caracas.

Diego has not fought an 8-Rounder yet, and is being groomed at the Santa Teresa Boxing Club.
__________________________________________________ ____________________________________

Gustavo 'El Cerebro' Briceno

Born ............ November 3, 1947
Age ............. 21 years, 1 month
Home Base .. Caracas, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 9"
Style ........... Pure Boxer
Record ........ 13-0-0 {1 KO}
Rank .......... {Not Rated}

A 'tall-and-lanky' pure boxer who is all box-and-jab, and no punch. Only a Pro for 1-Year.

This talented boxer scored an 'upset' {W Dec 8} over Antonio Gomez on November 4, 1968.
__________________________________________________ ___________________________________________

Freddie 'Cochocho' Rengifo

Born ............ January 10, 1945
Age ............. 23 years, 11 months
Home Base .. Caracas, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 7"
Style ........... Boxer/Puncher
Record ........ 26-5-0 {12 KO's}
Rank .......... {Not Rated}

A generally good all-around boxer.

Things were going well for Freddie thru April 1967, as he had posted a record of 23-1-0, and was ranked
as the #4 Featherweight by 'Ring Magazine'.

Included were wins in 1966 over the following 'Top 10' World-Rated boxers;
* May 30 ......... Hiroshi Kobayashi
* July 3 ............ Carmelo Coscia
* October 17 .... Antonio Amaya
* December 16 .. Johnny Jamito

But, Freddie has only gone 3-5-0 in his last '8-Bouts', and has been stopped in all '5' losses.

On July 1, 1968 > Freddie took the #2 World-Rated Featherweight - Johnny Famechon '10' tough
Rounds before getting stopped by {L TKO 10}.
__________________________________________________ _______________________________

Pedro Gomez

Born ............ December 3, 1941
Age ............. 26 years, 11 months
Home Base .. Cumana, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 6"
Style ........... Boxer/Puncher
Record ........ 23-1-2 {12 KO's}
Rank .......... #2 WBA

Pedro Gomez is the older brother of Antonio Gomez.

Pedro is a 'great' boxer, and a good puncher. He is a 'Top 2' World-Rated Featherweight, and is also the
Venezuelan Featherweight Champion.

Back on July 27, 1968 ..... "Pedro Gomez Signs Fight Pact"

Boxing Matchmaker - Mickey Davies of the 'Olympic Auditorium' in Los Angeles has signed Pedro Gomez
up to fight the winner of the upcoming WBA Championship Bout between Champion - Raul Rojas and
Japanese Challenger - Shozo Saijo scheduled for August 1968.

Mickey Davies said that he had plans to match the winner of the Rojas-Saijo Championship Bout with
Pedro Gomez for early-Fall 1968 at the 'Olympic Auditorium', or the 'Sports Arena'.

Rafito Cedene {Advisor for Pedro Gomez} stated that his fighter was anxious for the Title challenge.
__________________________________________________ ___________________________________

Antonio Gomez ~ 'El Leon de Cumana'

Born ............ September 7, 1945
Age ............. 23 years, 2 months
Home Base .. Cumana, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 6"
Style ........... Boxer - Defensive Specialist
Record ........ 18-2-0 {7 KO's}
Rank .......... {Not Rated}

Antonio Gomez, the younger brother for Pedro Gomez.

At the time, Antonio was primarily a 'one-arm' boxer, using his right-hand as his primary weapon.
But, Antonio was a 'defensive-specialist', as he was both elusive and quick.
__________________________________________________ ____________________________________

Alfredo Marcano

Born ............ January 17, 1947
Age ............. 21 years, 10 Months
Home Base .. Cumana, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 5 1/2"
Style ........... Aggressive Boxer/Puncher
Record ........ 23-2-3 {17 KO's}
Rank ........... #12 WBA {Super-Featherweight}

Alfredo is a muscular and solid punching fighter. Alfredo has bounced between Featherweight {126 lbs.}
and Super-Featherweight {130 lbs.}.

Alfredo is coming off '3-Straight' wins over a few of the 'Top' Colombian Featherweights.
* July 14, 1968 ......... TKO 6 ......... Bernardo Caraballo
* October 6, 1968 ...... KO 6 .......... Enrique Higgins
* October 28, 1968 .... W Dec 10 ... Antonio Herrera
__________________________________________________ _________________________________________

Carlos 'Morocho' Hernandez

Born ............ April 22, 1939
Age ............. 29 years, 7 months
Home Base .. Caracas, Venezuela
Height ......... 5' 10"
Style ........... Aggressive Boxer/Puncher
Record ........ 50-9-4 {36 KO's}
Rank ........... #2 WBA {Lightweight}

Carlos Hernandez is the former World Super-Lightweight Champion {January 18, 1965 - thru - April 29, 1966}.

Carlos has stated that he was campaigning as a Lightweight, and would even drop down to 130 lbs., if he
could 'lock down' a World Title bout.
__________________________________________________ _________________________________________

Antonio 'Kid Pambele' Cervantes

Born ............... December 23, 1945
Age ................ 22 years, 11 months
Home Base ..... Maracay, Venezuela {By way of Cartagena, Colombia}
Height ............ 5' 9"
Style .............. Boxer - Stylist
Record ........... 42-5-3 {12 KO's}
Rank .............. #10 WBA Super-Featherweight

Antonio Cervantes left Cartagena, Colombia for Maracay, Venezuela on November 6, 1968.

At the time, Antonio was the Colombian Featherweight Champion, but was having difficulty
making 126 lbs.

Antonio turned Professional in January 1964 {Age; 18 years, 1 month}.

But there has been some question about Antonio's true age, as some have stated that he is 3-Years
older, and has had an additional '25-Bouts' on his record, where he went 22-2-1 with {9 KO's}.

That would put Antonio at {Age; 26 years old}, and put his record at 64-7-4 with {21 KO's}.

At the urging of Venezuelan Businessman and Fight Promoter/Manager - Ramiro Machado, Antonio
moved to Venezuela and immediately was hooked up with Trainer - Melquiades 'Tabaquita' Sanz.

After only 3-Weeks, Antonio has had '2' quick bouts in Caracas, and only 3-Days apart >
* November 25, 1968 ....... KO 1 ......... Orlando Ruiz
* November 28, 1968 ...... W Dec 10 ... Nestor Rojas

Friday ~ December 20, 1968

Nuevo Circo ~ Caracas, Venezuela

Attendance ..... { 9300 } 'Sell Out'

~ The Night That Cruz Marcano Destroyed Antonio Cervantes ~

"Main Event"

Carlos Hernandez vs. Ray Adigun ~ 'Lightweight Battle'
-----------------------------------------------------------

'Main Undercard'

Cruz Marcano - 17-0-2 {11 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ Reach; 68" ~ 127 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 9 months}
vs.
Antonio Cervantes - 42-5-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 9" ~ Reach; 72" ~ 129 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 0 months}

~ The Skinny ~

Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano was Trained by Ely Montes. Cruz was being proclaimed as the 'best' of the
big group of competing Venezuelan Featherweights in boxing.

Antonio 'Kid Pambele' Cervantes {Colombia} was now based out of Maracay, Venezuela. 'Kid Pambele'
was ranked as the #10 WBA Super-Featherweight, and was Trained by Venezuelan - Melquiades
'Tabaquito' Sanz.

The bout was a simple match-up between 'A pure puncher versus a stylist boxer'.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Bout ~

Round 1 >

Both fighters met at Center-Ring, and surprisingly Cervantes was willing to trade with Cruz. It was a
'mistake', as after 25-Seconds Antonio was sent flying backwards after eating a 'left-right' to the head.

Cruz then moved in, and bombarded a 'surprised' Antonio with a savage volley of punches, dropping him
on his right-side at the {0:40 Mark}.

Antonio was up at the '4-Count', and was ready to continue,. Surprisingly, Cruz did not attack and instead
laid back and 'asked' Antonio to hit him by yelling > "Hit me blackie."

Cruz even backed up into a Corner, and let Antonio hit him by lowering his arms by his side. Antonio obliged,
and moved in, and using his 4" reach advantage fired in 'triple' left-jabs followed by straight right-hands to the
head.

This scenario played out for the rest of Round 1. And over the last {1:30} span, Antonio out-punched Cruz by
a punch count of '52 to 'none'.

Round 1 ......... {10-9} > Cruz Marcano
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the Corner between Rounds > Trainer - Ely Montes was all over Cruz Marcano for letting Cervanes off the hook,
after 'dropping' him, and then allowing Cervantes to get back into the fight by letting the Colombian hit him at will.

Round 2 >

Again Cruz came out to Center-Ring and threw a few 'bombs', and then backed away at the {0:25 Mark}. Again,
'El Loco' dropped his hands and let Cervantes hit him.

Antion again obliged, and fired away with fast '2-and-3' punch combinations. Each time the Cervantes connected,
Cruz would yell > "Hit me harder Black."

It was the same scenario for the rest of the Round, as Cruz again backed into a Corner and let 'Kid Pambele' hit
him at will.

Round 2 ....... {10-9} > Antonio Cervantes
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Round 3

Just when you think things couldn't get any crazier, they did.

Cruz came out to Center-Ring with his hands down b his side, and he let Cervantes have a free reign. Each time
that Antonio connected with a combination, Cruz would start yelling >
"Hit me Black. Kill me, because if you do not Kill me, I will kill you."

Again, Cervantes hit Marcano with nearly every punch he threw. And again, Cruz took all the punches without
offering up nary a return.

Round 3 ....... {10-9} > Antonio Cervantes
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Called the 'Historic 4th'

Round 4

Both fighters met at Center-Ring, and immediately Cruz dropped his hands and backed up into a Neutral-Corner.

Antonio moved forward, and started to unload with everything he had. Antonio then rained 'left-right' combinations
all over Cruz, as the Venezuelan was backed up in the Corner for a 'full-minute'.

Then Cruz Marcano yelled at Cervantes >
"Kill me Black. If you don't, I will kill you. I Love You."

Antonio had let go with everything he had, but the punches did not effect Cruz Marcano in the least bit.

Then suddenly, Antonio started to slow down significantly, as he had 'punched-himself-out'.

Then in a flash 'El Loco' came out of the Neutral-Corner with an explosion, and nailed
Cervantes with a solid 'right-left' to the head, and a hard left-hook to the body at the {1:10 Mark}.

Antonio then turned away {side-ways} to his right in obvious pain, and lowered his arms by his sides, as he
was both 'gassed-out' and-stunned.

Cruz then jumped all over Antonio, and pummeled him with a 'two-fisted' barrage, driving him to the canvas
with a 'volley-of-punches' to the head.

The Referee counted out Antonio Cervantes at {1:34} of Round 4.

January 1969

Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano

The hard-punching and 'crazy' Venezuelan was riding an 'unbeaten' record of
18-0-2 with {12 KO's} following the destruction {KO 4} of Antonio Cervantes on
December 23, 1968 in Caracas, Venezuela.

It was a most talked about win in Venezuela.


~ Ring Magazine Ratings ~

*** 'vacant'
#1 . Jose Legra
#2 . Johnny Famechon
#3 . Shozo Saijo
#4 . Fighting Harada
#5 . Dwight Hawkins
#6 . Jose Jiminez
#7 . Bobby Valdez
#8 . Howard Winstone
#9 . Cruz Marcano
#10. Raul Rojas

1969

Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano

Following the 'impressive' deciphering { KO 4} of Antonio Cervantes on December 20, 1968
> 'El Loco' became an instant legend in Venezuela, and both Central and South America.

Even in Los Angeles and New York, there was interest in bringing this 'Crazy Venezuelan'
to America.

Now with a record of 18-0-2 {12 KO's}, Cruz Marcano was > 'the most talked about Venezuelan boxer'.

The 'Word' was > He destroyed the Great Colombian - 'Kid Pambele'.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

But, Manager/Trainer - Ely Montes wanted his fighter to get a few more bouts under his
belt against some veteran fighters, before going for a bout in America under the 'bright lights'.

So, Ely Montes set Cruz Marcano up '2' bouts at the Nuevo Circo in Caracas, Venezuala.

* February 10, 1969 ....... vs. Antonio Herrera

Antonio Herrera was a 30 year-old {10-Year Pro} veteran from Cartagena, Colombia. The former
#1 WBA Featherweight {December 1967} brought in a fine record of 47-11-5 with {7 KO's}.

The 'all-box' Colombian was now a fading boxer, as Antonio had lost '5-Straight', including his chance
at the World Featherweight Championship {December 14, 1967} when he lost to Raul Rojas.

The Result ........ Cruz Marcano {W Dec 10} over Antonio Herrera

News Reports stated >

That Cruz dominated the bout, and had the light-punching 'cagey boxer' backing away and fighting
defensively all night.

Antonio Herrera did display some effective offense in Rounds 1, 5 and 6, but in the majority of the
Rounds, the Colombian was forced to use his tight-defense to stay away from the hard-punching
Venezuelan.

Cruz won '7' of the Rounds, Antonio Herrera earned '1' Round, and with '2' Even, as Cruz Marcano
won an easy and convincing 10-Round Decision.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* March 14, 1969 ......... vs. Francisco Bolivar

Francisco Bolivar, a 10-Year Venezuelan veteran. Francisco {Age 28 years, 10 months} brings in a
record of 47-7-1 with {25 KO's}.

Francisco is a 'tough veteran boxer', and is by no way an easy mark.

The Result .......... Cruz Marcano {W Dec 10} over Francisco Bolivar

News Reports stated >

Cruz Marcano was given a tough opponent in veteran Franciso Bolivar. The 'veteran' was not
intimidated by the young Marcano's vaunted punching-power, and Francisco smartly stayed
in close, and did not allow Cruz the room to wail away.

But, it was Cruz Marcano who did display the harder punching, as Franciso could not match
the younger fighters strength especially during the middle-Rounds.

Cruz turned a 'close bout' in his favor during Rounds 6, 7 and 8 > as he was doing all of
the effective punching.

The Scorecards >
* 97-95 {5-3-2 in Rounds} > Cruz Marcano
* 97-94 {6-3-1 in Rounds} > Cruz Marcano
* 97-95 {5-3-2 in Rounds} > Cruz Marcano

April 1969

~ Sport Grafico ~

Articles about >
* Pedro Gomez {Venezuelan Featherweight}
* Mickey Mantle {New York Yankees Baseball Player}
* Cruz Marcano {Venezuelan Featherweight}

The article on Cruz Marcano >

Discusses the vaunted punching-power of 'El Loco', and his Trainer - Ely Montes.

Also, mentioned Cruz Marcano's upcoming bout with #2 Mexican Featherweight
Aurelio Muniz, set for April 19th in Mexico City, Mexico.

http://i.ebayimg.com/00/s/MTYwMFgxMj...FUnwIC/$_1.JPG

Saturday ~ April 19, 1969

Arena Coliseo ~ Mexico City, Mexico

{#7 WBA} - Cruz Marcano ~ 20-0-2 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 127 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 1 month}
vs.
{#6 WBC} - Aurelio Muniz ~ 34-2-1 {17 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 127 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 7 months}
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cruz Marcano, is having his '1st-Bout' outside of Venezuela. The 23 year-old 'bomber' has now
moved up to the #7 WBA Featherweight, as well as #7 Ring Magazine

Aurelio Muniz is an excellent boxer/puncher from Tamaulipas, Mexico. Aurelio also was the
Mexican Featherweight Champion from > August 4, 1967 thru October 20, 1967.

Aurelio is Managed by George Hughes, who thinks that his fighter has the 'right style' to
handle Cruz Marcano.

Besides '1' early career loss, the only other fighter to defeat Aurelio was World-Rated
Vicente Garcia for the Mexican Featherweight Championship.

Aurelio is ranked as the #6 WBC Featherweight, and is ranked at #6 Ring Magazine.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Cruz Marcano Smooth In Mexico, Decisions Aurelio Muniz ~

Cruz Marcano fighting in front of a partisan Mexico City crowd, scored an impressive 10-Round
Decision over 'tough' Aurelio Muniz in a 10-Round Featherweight bout.

The 'highly-touted' Venezuelan got off to a fast start, as he used a variety of 'lefts-and-rights' to
keep the hard-charging Mexican off of him during the first-half of the bout.

Marcano also exhibited a 'tight-defense' and solid chin, as he was not affected by Muniz' hard hooks
to the head during Rounds 6 and 7.

Marcano put the 'icing-on-the-cake' in Round 8, when he caught Muniz with a volley of head-blows,
dropping the Mexican for a '3-Count'.

The 'tough-and durable' Mexican fought back hard after the Knockdown, and presented himself well
over the last 2-Rounds as well.

Scorecards
* 97-94 > {5-3-2 in Rounds} = Cruz Marcano
* 97-93 > {6-3-1 in Rounds} = Cruz Marcano
* 96-93 > {6-4-0 in Rounds} = Cruz Marcano






'

May 8, 1969

~ Ring Magazine Ratings ~

*** Johnny Famechon ... {WBC Champion}
#1 . Shozo Saijo ........... {WBA Champion}
#2 . Jose Legra
#3 . Dwight Hawkins
#4 . Cruz Marcano
#5 . Fighting Harada
#6 . Jose Jiminez
#7 . Felipe Torres
#8 . Fernando Sotelo
#9 . Howard Winstone
#10. Raul Rojas
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

May 22, 1969

Manager/Promoter - Ramiro Machado discussing his fighter- Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano >

We were nervous taking Cruz to Mexico City on April 19th. We were fighting in front of a partisan crowd
of 10,000 Mexicans.

That kid {Aurelio Muniz} was a tough Featherweight, and he was ranked {1} notch above us at #6 Ring Magazine.
We had to take the fight, if we wanted to move up in the World Ratings

I just told the 'Promoters' in Mexico that I wanted a 'fair scoring' of the bout, and nothing less. Otherwise I
would never bring back another Venezuelan fighter there, ever.

Well, Cruz fought a great fight, and we got a 'fair' officials scoring of the bout. I told Cruz to fight 'El Loco'
over the first 5-Rounds to build up a points lead, and to take the Mexican crowd out of the fight. And, he
did just that, as Cruz won the first 5-Rounds.

From that point on, he fought 'cagey smart', and even dropped him {Aurelio Muniz} in Round 8. He then
fought defensively over the last 2-Rounds, but Cruz still won by a comfortable-margin.

June 6, 1969

Nuevo Circo ~ Caracas, Venezuela

{#4} - Cruz Marcano ~ 21-0-2 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 129 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 3 months}
vs.
{#14} - Bobby Valdez ~ 22-7-4 {8 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 129 lbs. ~ {Age; 26 years, 6 months}
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Cruz Marcano has now moved up to the #4 World Ranked Featherweight. A win here,
and Cruz has a date set for him in Los Angeles for August.

Bobby Valdez, a stylish-boxer from San Diego, California. Only 5-Months ago, Bobby
was slotted as the #5 World-Ranked Featherweight.

But, back-to-back losses to {L TKO 6} Felipe Torres on January 13, 1969 - and a
{L Dec 10} to Godfrey Stevens on April 19, 1969 ~ has dropped the California Featherweight
down to the #14 Featherweight.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Cruz Marcano Chases, Scores Decision Over 'Speedy' Bobby Valdez ~

Venezuelan - Cruz Marcano fighting in front off 8000 home-country supporters at the Nuevo Circo
chased all noght in trying to catch California Featherweight 'Speedy' Bobby Valdez.

After losing the 1st-Round, Marcano took control in Round 2 when he staggered Valdez with a
left-hook to the jaw, and had him wobbly. Marcano then literally chased the Californian around
the Ring, in attempt to unload his heavy-fists.

By the 5th Round, Marcano became frustrated, and threw his arms 'up-in-the-air', and yelled at his
American opponent > "C'mon, lets fight".

The fast, but light-hitting Valdez stayed on his wheels, and circled about on the outside, and away
from the Venezuelan.

Marcano spent most of the bout moving in, and trying to dish out combinations. But the Venezuelan
had to take what was available, and was only able to score with left-jabs, or an occasional wide-sweeping
hook.

Scorecards >
* 98-94 = {6-2-2 in Rounds} = Cruz Marcano
* 99-94 = {6-1-3 in Rounds} = Cruz Marcano
* 98-93 = {7-2-1 in Rounds} = Cruz Marcano

Friday ~ June 6, 1969

Nuevo Circo 'New Circus' ~ Caracas, Venezuela

#3 ~ Cruz Marcano - 22-0-2 {13 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 129 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 3 months}
vs.
{NR} ~ Pedro Rodriguez - 19-6-1 {9 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 130 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 1 month}
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
~ The Skinny ~

Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano will take on another tough Mexican Featherweight. Cruz has won
'4-Straight' by 10-Round Decision, and there are 'rumblings' about his power {or lake there of}.

Pedro Rodriguez is a Los-Angeles based Featherweight. Pedro is a gritty 'club-fighter' who is
known for his durability and toughness. As, he has only been stopped {by cuts} once
in '26-Bouts' over a 5-Year career.

Pedro went 10-Rounds with WBA Featherweight Champion - Shozo Saijo only 2-Months earlier,
on April 14th.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Cruz Marcano Remains Undefeated, Defeats Pedro Rodriguez ~

Cruz Marcano won an 'easy' and one-sided 10-Round Decision over a game but out-classed
Pedro Rodriguez of Los Angeles, California.

The 'talented' and World-Rated Venezuelan won the first 6-Rounds of the bout by scoring with
left-hooks and jolting right-hands into his tough but limited opponent.

With the bout well under control, 'El Loco' played to the crowd of { 8700 } in the Nuevo Circo
Arena, by dancing with his hands-up-in-the-air, and blowing kisses to the crowd over the last
4-Rounds, as his opponent was perplexed by the display.

Scorecards
* 99-94 > {6-1-3 in Rounds}
* 100-94 >{6-0-4 in Rounds}
* 99-93 > {7-1-2 in Rounds}

Cruz Marcano >
"I knew that I had the bout won after the 6th Round, so I decided to have a little fun by going
'El Loco' in he Ring."

"I was not trying to embarrass Pedro. I only wanted to entertain the spectators."

Friday ~ August 15, 1969

Nuevo Circo 'New Circus' ~ Caracas, Venezuela

* Cruz Marcano - 23-0-2 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 128 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 5 months}
vs.
* Alfredo Marcano - 28-3-3 {19 KO's} ~ 5' 5" ~ 129 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 7 months}
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

A battle between 'two' of the Top Venezuelan Featherweights, as well as '2' World Rated Boxers.

Both fighters are named 'Marcano', and both fighters are from Cumana, Venezuela.

This highly-anticipated 10-Round Bout is billed as ~ The Match of the Marcano's ~

Cruz, is rated by Ring Magazine as the #4 Featherweight. Cruz is a '5' 7" boxer-puncher,
who has 'heavy-hands'. He also has a very good defense with a 'rock-hard' chin.

Alfredo, is rated by Ring Magazine as the #8 Super-Featherweight. Alfredo is a muscular
and powerfully built fighter in a short frame {5' 4 1/2"}. Alfredo, can 'whack' with his
style, which resembles a 'Mason' smacking bricks.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ 'Fight Of The Year' ~

~ Cruz Marcano and Alfredo Marcano Battle To Draw ~

In one of the 'wildest shoot-outs' ever seen, two of Venezuela's top boxers > Cruz Marcano and Alfredo Marcano
battled to a 10-Round Draw.

In the early going, it looked like Alfredo would blow 'El Loco' out of the Ring, as the Alfredo {better technician} gave
Cruz an old-fashioned boxing-lesson.

Alfredo scored with accurate left-jabs and short right-hands to the chin, to rattle the 'Crazy Marcano' time and
again, while sending Cruz back in his heels. Alfredo swept Rounds 1, 2 and 3 > as he out-hit his opponent
4-to-1.

In Round 4, it was an 'all-out slugfest', as both boxers stood at Center-Ring and went toe-to-toe, slamming
each other with both 'body blows' and hooks to the head. Neither fighter gave ground, in a near 3-Minute
'non-stop' war of wills.

In Round 5, it was Alfredo who got back in control, as he stayed 'inside-and-close' at Center-Ring and worked
on Cruz's mid-section with repeated body-smashes. Cruz could not the distance to utilize his longer reach,
where he could whip-in-punches, and was forced to block and stay on the defensive.

By the end of Round 5, Alfredo had built up a 'wide' 4-Point lead on the Scorecards.

Round 6 went off the same way for Alfredo, as he again he got inside Cruz, and battered away at his taller
opponent's mid-section.

But just past the {2:00 Mark}., Cruz opened up and caught Alfredo with a 'right-left' to the head that sent
him stumbling backwards. Then, Cruz went on an 'all-out assault' and pummeled away on Alfredo as he was
sent into the left-side Ropes and took a pounding until the Bell.

In Round 7 > Cruz had it going all his way, and scored with repeated 'one-two' punches to Alfredo's head.
And then when Alfredo brought up his hands to cover his face and head, Cruz dug low with left-hooks into
the rib-cage. Basically, Alfredo 'ran'.

In Round 8 > Cruz continued to put the offensive-pressure on Alfredo, and worked away with 'one-two'
combinations over the first {1:00}.

But Alfredo was not about to give away the large Points lead that he had built up earlier. And, by the {1:10 Mark},
Alfredo's head had cleared, and by the {1:30 Mark} he was fighting back by sending in some heavy-blows to the body.

At the {1:45 Mark} it turned into an 'All-Out War', as both fighters were slamming each other at Center-Ring with
their best punches. Each fighter was 'rocked', but neither gave in as they went 'non-stop' over the last minute
of Round 8.

The Nuevo Circo Arena of { 9500 } roared with cheers and the 'sell-out' full-house gave a rousing standing
ovation for both fighters at the end of the Round.

Coming out for Round 9 {Cruz Marcano} was behind 1-or-2 Points.

Immediately, Cruz started jabbing away at Alfredo's head. On the other side, Alfredo was literally 'running'
and staying on the outside, as he was trying to protect his points lead and 'run-out-the-bout'.

While this was happening > Cruz was yelling at Alfedo > "Kill me. Hit me, don't run. Come on 'Fredo', hit me."
Alfredo continued to chase Alfredo for nearly the entire Round 9.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In the 'Final Round' > Cruz Marcano again went after Alfredo. And over the first {1:20}, Alfredo stayed
away from exchanging and boxed from 'way' outside.

Then it turned into a War !!

Cruz was finally able to 'trap' Alfredo on the back-Ropes, and he let go with a 'blistering' 11-punch barrage that
'stunned' Alfredo at the {1:35 Mark}.

Just as it seemed that Cruz would put a 'hurting' on Alfredo, he made the 'mistake' of leaving himself 'wide open'.
Then Alfredo countered with a hard 'left-hook/right-hook' to the body, that took the wind out of Cruz.

Alfredo then added in a right to the head, and Cruz 'stumbled' forward and fell face first into the Ropes, where he
was momentarily 'out-on-his-feet'.

Alfredo then 'spun' 180*, and unloaded with a '12-Punch' bombardment on Cruz who was 'hanging' Ropes at
the {1:50 Mark}.

Cruz was able to 'right himself', but was now backed in the back-left Corner. As Alfredo kept throwing punches,
'amazingly' Cruz started screaming at Alfredo > "Kill me Fredo. Hit me. I Love you."

At the {2:10 Mark} > Cruz then even 'dropped' his hands, and said to Alfredo > "Hit me. Hit me here on the chin."

A 'perplexed' Alfredo was unsure of what to do, and he inexplicably backed off. Then, Cruz Marcano made his move,
and went after Alfredo like a 'Crazed Bull'. Cruz charged into Alfredo at Center-Ring at the {2:20 Mark}, and slammed
him with several wide-hooks.

To avoid the sudden attack, Alfredo backed up all the way across the Ring, and into the front-right Corner. There, Cruz
'bored-in' at the {2:35 Mark}, and continued to wing 'haymakers' from every angle

Cruz ripped away and slammed 'jarring' punches into Alfredo's head 'non-stop' for 25-Seconds. But Alfredo was
able to 'weather-the-storm', and was even able to land a good '3-Punch' combination just before the Bell sounded,
endinga 'wild' 10th and Final Round.

August 15, 1969

~ Ring Magazine Ratings ~

*** Johnny Famechon > {WBC Champion}
#1 . Shozo Saijo > {WBA Champion}
#2 . Vicente Saldivar
#3. Dwight Hawkins
#4 . Cruz Marcano
#5 . Jose Legra
#6 . Fighting Harada
#7 . Felipe Torres
#8 . Jimmy Revie
#9 . Noboyo Chiba
#10. Fernando Sotelo

Fight Promoter ~ Ramiro Machado >

I want to send Cruz up to Los Angeles, California for 2-Months, to get him some good gym-sparring, and
then pick up a '2-Bouts in Los Angeles at the 'Olympic Auditorium' before the end of the year {1969}.

I want to 'smooth out' his rough edges before we send him into a World Championship bout in 1970.

I'd like him to have a bout in October, and then one in late-November. I have no opponents picked out
as of yet. I'm working with Mickey Davies {Olympic Matchmaker} to set up '2' opponents.

~ Dangerous Venezuelan's ~

Cruz Marcano ...............Isaac Martin
............. Alfredo Marcano ......... Luis Vallejo

https://encrypted-tbn3.gstatic.com/i...ec4kufMtO8X2Cj

August 15, 1969

~ Cruz Marcano vs. Alfredo Marcano ~

Venezuela's 1969 ~ 'Fight of the Year'

But a bizarre ending to this bout.

Approximatley 5-Minutes after the bout ended, the Ring Announcer > Ray Garcia announced that
Alfredo Marcano had won by a 'Majority Decision'.

* Referee - Luis Salbaran ...... 96-95 > {5-4-1 in Rounds} > Alfredo Marcano
* Judge - Carlos Cataya ........ 96-96 > {4-4-2 in Rounds} > 'Even'
* Judge - Santos Arizmendi ... 96-95 > {5-4-1 in Rounds} > Alfredo Marcano

After the announcement, all 'Hell' broke loose in the Cruz Marcano group, as they screamed that
they were 'robbed'.

And the Cruz Marcano supporters inside the Nuevo Circo Arena started 'booing' loudly, and many
were throwing objects at the Ring.

Immediately, the Venezuelan Boxing Commission got involved, and made an announcement that
they were going to 're-tabulate' the Scorecards.

What they found {or so stated}, that Judge - Santos Arizmendi had 'incorrectly' scored Round 8
{10-9} for Alfredo Marcano, instead of scoring the Round {10-10} 'Even', which is what he
intended to do.

That {1-Point} swing in difference made the bout a '10-Round Draw'.

~ Corrected Scorecard Reading ~

Referee - Luis Salbaran
> Alfredo Marcano > Rounds ... 1, 2, 3, 4, 5
> Cruz Marcano > Rounds ....... 6, 7, 9, 10
> 'Even' .................................. 8

Judge - Carlos Cataya
> Alfredo Marcano > Rounds ... 1, 2, 3, 5
> Cruz Marcano > Rounds ....... 6, 7, 9, 10
> 'Even' .................................. 4, 8

Judge - Santos Arizmendi
> Alfredo Marcano > Rounds .. 1, 2, 3, 5
> Cruz Marcano > Rounds ...... 6, 7, 9, 10
> 'Even' ................................ 4, 8

~ Rare Photo ~

Friday ~ August 15, 1969

~ Venezuela's 1969 ~ 'Fight of the Year'

Cruz Marcano {left} versus Alfredo Marcano {right}

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com...74961136d1.jpg

Wednesday ~ August 20, 1969

Fight Promoter - Ramiro Machado

That bout on Friday Night {August 15th} at the Nuevo Circo 'New Circus' was a brutal battle.
Both fighters are bruised and sore.

Those type of fights can 'ruin' a fighter's career. Thankfully, both Cruz Marcano and Alfredo Marcano
are young, and strong. They will both bounce back, as long as they have a 'required' rest period.

What we saw on Friday Night, was 'two' future World Champion's. That I can guarantee. My plan
is to have both of them World Champion's in 1970.

But,

Cruz Marcano injured his right-hand in the bout with Alfredo Marcano on Friday Night.

He will be 'out-of-action' for 3-Months. I was going to take him to California in mid-September,
but those plans will now be 'scuibbed'.

The Doctor has told him, 'No Boxing' for 3-Months, and no sparring until he has been
re-examined in November 1969.

Alfredo Marcano is a little sore and bruised up. He's under orders from his Physician, to
rest for 1-Month, and not resume training during that time.

~ Famous Photo ~

* Antonio 'Kid Pambele' Cervantes {wearing White Suit}....... WBA Light-Welterweight Champion

* Ramiro Machado {with Hat and reading Newspaper} ........ Venezuelan Fight Promoter and Boxing Manager

* Melquiades 'Tabaquito' Saenz {Super Afro hairdo} ............ Venezuelan Boxing Trainer

http://www.liderendeportes.com/extra...0303201307.jpg

Saturday ~ December 20, 1969

Nuevo Circo 'New Circus' ~ Caracas, Venezuela

~ Venezuela Featherweight Championship ~

* Pedro Gomez - 25-4-2 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 6" ~ 126 lbs. ~ {Age; 28 years, 0 months}
vs.
* Cruz Marcano - 23-0-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 125 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 6 months}
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano > Is fighting for the '1st-time' in over 4-months, after his 'war' on
August 15th in 'The Fight of the Year' with Alfredo Marcano.

Cruz has been recovering from a fractured-bone in his right-hand.

While the 'unbeaten' South American has been labeled a can't miss Champion by the 'boxing experts',
there has been a concern over his 'power-loss' in 1969.

In '6-Bouts', Cruz has had to go the 'full-route' in each bout, and has not scored a Knockout,
and only has registered '2' Knockdowns in '60-Rounds'.

Cruz Marcano is rated as the #3 WBA Featherweight.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pedro Gomez > Is the older brother of Antonio Gomez. Pedro had been 'The Star' of Cumana
and Venezuela's 'Top' Featherweight in early-1969.

Also, Pedro had been the Venezuelan Featherweight Champion since February 1968.

The 4-Year Professional was the #1 WBA Featherweight in February 1969, and earned the challenge
for the WBA Featherweight Championship on February 9th against Japan's - Shozo Saijo in Tokyo, Japan.

In that bout, Pedro fell behind 'badly' after 10-Rounds, but put on a remarkable come-back over the
last 4-Rounds. But, Pedro came up just short and lost a 'tough' 15-Round Decision to the WBA Champion.

Since that loss on February 9th >

Pedro had lost 'back-to-back' bouts {L TKO 6} to Mexican - Vicente Garcia on 'May 1st', and a {L Dec 10}
to American - Richard Sue on 'August 1st'.

But on August 29th, Pedro 'reversed' the tables on Richard Sue, and won a {W Dec 10}.

Pedro is rated as the #11 WBA Featherweight.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Cruz Marcano 'Captures' The Venezuelan Featherweight Championship, Defeats Pedro Gomez ~

'Unbeaten' Cruz Marcano made it '27-Straight' bouts without a loss, as he easily defeated Pedro Gomez to capture
the Venezuelan Featherweight Championship.

The 23 year-old Marcano used a 'steady' left-jab and 'crisp' right-hands in every Round, to bruise up the face of
the 28 year-old Champion.

Cruz Marcano, who is from Cumana, just like the Champion, was in control from the Opening Round, and out-sped
Pedro Gomez in every exchange, throughout the 12-Round bout.

El Nacionale' scored the bout {118-112} or {8-2-2} in Rounds for the 'new' Champion - Cruz Marcano.

January 1, 1970

Ring Magazine Ratings

*** Johnny Famechon > {WBC Champion}
#1 . Shozo Saijo > {WBA Champion}
#2 . Vicente Saldivar
#3 . Fighting Harada
#4 . Cruz Marcano
#5 . Antonio Gomez
#6 . Kuniaki Shibata
#7 . Jimmy Revie
#8 . Jose Legra
#9 . Fernando Sotello
#10. Dwight Hawkins
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Friday ~ February 20, 1970

Nuevo Circo 'New Circus' ~ Caracas, Venezuela

* Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano - 24-0-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 127 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 23 years, 11 months}
vs.
* Guillermo 'Memo' Morales - 20-4-0 {18 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 127 lbs. ~ {Age; 22 years, 2 months}
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

Cruz Marcano > is on a roll, and has moved up to the #2 WBA-ranked Featherweight.
The Venezuelan is also ranked at #4 Ring Magazine.

Cruz has been labeled 'a complete fighter', and is unbeaten in '27' bouts. The one issue, is that
'El Loco' has been missing the 'KO Punch' in 1969, as he has gone 7-Straight bouts without
scoring a Knockout.

His last 'Knockout' {KO 4} was against Antonio Cervantes back in December 1968.

In fairness, Cruz has had some issues with his right-hand {bruised and hairline fracture}
since the Cervantes bout.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Guillermo 'Memo' Morales > is a tough-and-young fighter from Mexicali. 'Memo' always
comes to fight, and never gives up, as he brings in an aggressive style

The Mexican 'now' usually fights in his opponents backyard. 'Memo' is an average boxer, but he
has a good left-hook that has 'helped' produce '18' Knockouts in '20' wins.

'Memo' got off to a 'blazing start' in his career, as he won his first '15' Bouts with {14 KO's}
thru May 1968.

But 'back-to-back' tough 10-Round Decision losses stalled his fast rise.
* June 19, 1968 ..... Richie Gonzalez
* August 9, 1968 ... Beto Maldonado

Then on August 23, 1968 > 'Memo' lost a tough bout {L TKO 7} to Baby Cassius, when he had
his 'left-eye' sliced up. It was his '3rd' straight loss, dropping him to 15-3-0.

After '3' straight losses, 'Memo' Morales moved to Honolulu, Hawaii in November 1968, as there
was a 'call' to get some West-Coast Featherweights out there.

In his '1st-Bout' in Honolulu {October 31, 1968} > 'Memo' was matched with 'unbeaten' and
highly-touted Filipino - Dominado 'Domi' Manalang.

Manalang had a record of 17-0-1 with {12 KO's}, and was the #7 WBA-ranked Bantamweight.

'The Filipino was moving up in weight, and in the bout > Manalang {123 lbs.} was too fast
for 'Memo' {126 lbs.}, and went on to score a {TKO 8} over Morales.

It was Morales' '4th' straight loss, dropping the young 21 year-old Mexican to 15-4-0.

3-Months later {January 29, 1969} 'Memo' was back in the Ring again in Honolulu. Again
'Memo' was facing another 'talented' Filipino in Roberto Andrade.

Roberto was the #7 WBA-ranked Featherweight, and was a 'big' fan favorite on the Island.

In a 'Major Upset' > 'Memo' Morales scored a Knockout {KO 3} over the World-Ranked
Filipino.

The 'upset win' moved 'Memo' Morales to the #10 WBA Featherweight in the February 1969
ratings. The win ended the '4-Bout' losing streak for 'Memo', as he upped his record of 16-4-0 {15 KO's}.

For the rest of 1969, 'Memo' went on to score '4' more wins, and with {3 KO's}.

At the end of 1969 > 'Memo' Morales had improved to 20-4-0 with {18 KO's}.

February 20, 1970

~ Major Upset In Caracas, As Visiting Mexican Defeats 'Top-Ranked' Cruz Marcano ~

~ Cruz Marcano Loses, Upset By Majority Decision To 'Memo' Morales ~

The highly-touted and #2 WBA-ranked Venezuelan - Cruz Marcano was 'upset' in
his home country by little-known Mexican - Guillermo 'Memo' Morales.

Cruz Marcano was just '1-Bout' away from a Featherweight World Championship
bout, but now he will fall a few notches in the World Rankings.

In the bout, Marcano {127 1/2 lbs.} fought 'brilliantly' for the first 2-Rounds, as he
displayed his 'great' boxing-skills of jabbing and countering with 'lightning' fast-speed
on the visiting Mexican.

'El Loco' also used his crazy tactics of 'screaming' at his opponent by yelling >
"Hit me Mexico. Hit me if you can."

But starting mid-way thru Round 3, Morales had 'upset-on-his-mind', as he moved in
close on the Venezuelan favorite, and scored with 'several' hard left-hooks to the head.

For the next 3-Rounds, it was 'Memo' Morales as the effective-aggressor, and the
Venezuelan who was on the defensive.

Morales {126 lbs.} continued to bore in on Marcano, who for some reason backed to
the Ropes and let the Mexican hit him without offering a return. Morales landed with
repeated left-hooks and short right-hands, as he had Marcano covering up while having
him pinned to the Ropes.

Realizing that he was losing control of the bout, Cruz Marcano moved to Center-Ring
in Round 7, and smoothly-boxed by dishing out repeated left-hands and counter
right-hands on the pressing Mexican.

During the Round, 'El Loco' went back to his yelling antics, by screaming >
"I am here Mexico. Hit me. Hit me Mexico."

But, Marcano used up a lot of energy, as he was going at a super-fast pace, and
looked a bit 'leg-weary' at the end of the Round.

In Round 8, the 'tough' Mexican came out charging, and again went back to bulling
Marcano into the Ropes, where he went to work with a steady punching-attack,
preventing to give the Venezuelan punching room.

> With '2' Rounds to go, the bout was up for grabs.

In Round 9, Cruz Marcano got off to a 'good start' as he smoothly boxed by jabbing and
circling around Morales who was positioned at Center-Ring.

But by the {1:30 Mark}, Cruz started to fade, as his legs weakened. Then Morales moved in
and backed the suddenly 'fatigued' Venezuelan to the Ropes. There, 'Memo' continued with
his steady and deliberate punching attack, as a 'spent' Marcano could only defend or grab.

In Round 10, Cruz Marcano came out to Center-Ring and unloaded what he had 'left-in-his-tank',
but after a brief period {25-Seconds} he was 'gassed'.

Then 'Memo' stepped up, and delivered heavy hooks into Cruz' body sending him backwards and
into the back-left Corner at the {0:40 Mark}.

While there, 'Memo' just kept pumping a steady flow of 'medium-power' punches into Marcano's
head-and-body until the Final Bell.

Scorecards
* Referee - Luis Salbaran ...... 96-95 > {5-4-1 in Rounds} > Guillermo 'Memo' Morales
* Judge - Carlos Cartaya ....... 96-96 > {4-4-2 in Rounds} > 'Even'
* Judge - Santos Arizmendi ... 97-96 > {4-3-3 in Rounds} > Guillermo 'Memo' Morales

February 26, 1970

Fight Promoter - Ramiro Machado

Discussing his fighter {Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano} and his recent loss to Guillermo 'Memo' Morales.

"It was just one of those nights. Cruz was fighting well for {2 1/2 Rounds}, and then he just
lost his strength for no reason.

He really labored in Rounds 4, 5 and 6. I believe he may have had 'the bug' while getting
prepared for this bout.

He was 'listless' for the whole 2nd-half of the bout, except for Round 7.

We have no other choice, but for Cruz to rest up for 6-Weeks, then we'll try to bring 'Memo' Morales
back in for a rematch.

I've already talked to his Manager - Edwin Inca Valero. Of course we will up the Mexican's
fight purse to { $3500 } this time, because a rematch will draw more interest.

March 5, 1970

Cruz 'El Loco' Marcano

The loss to Guillermo 'Memo' Morales dropped Cruz Marcano from the #2 WBA Featherweight
down to #5 WBA.

Now with a record of 24-1-3 > 'El Loco' had fallen from the 'unbeaten' Ranks.

The 'loss' also pushed the 'talented' Venezuelan out of a potential WBA Featherweight
Championship bout with Japan's Shozo Saijo {which was being discussed}.

The 23 1/2 year-old Venezuelan was told by his Trainer - Hely Montes to 're-group',
and to rest his 'problematic' right-hand for 2-Months.


~ WBA Featherweight Rankings ~

*** Shozo Saijo
#1 . Johnny Famechon > {WBC Champion}
#2 . Vicente Saldivar
#3 . Jose Legra
#4 . Antonio Gomez
#5 . Cruz Marcano
#6 . Godfrey Stevens
#7 . Frankie Crawford
#8 . Eder Jofre
#9 . Jimmy Revie
#10. Guillermo 'Memo' Morales

Friday ~ May 8, 1970

Nuevo Circo 'New Circus' ~ Caracas, Venezuela

* Cruz Marcano - 24-1-3 {12 KO's} ~ 5' 6 1/2" ~ 127 1/2 lbs. ~ {Age; 24 years, 2 months}
vs.
* Luis Ramirez - 37-12-3 {21 KO's} ~ 5' 5 1/2" ~ 129 lbs. ~ {Age; 27 years, 6 months}
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ The Skinny ~

Cruz Marcano is taking his '1st-Bout' since getting upset by 'Memo' Morales on February 20th.

Cruz is also planning for a 'rematch' with 'Memo' Morales for late-June 1970, after he defeats
the veteran Luis Ramirez.

Luis 'El Estudiante' Ramirez is an 11-Year veteran from Torreon, Mexico. Luis is hard-punching
fighter, but he has seen better days, as he has gone {2-5-0} in his last '7' bouts since October 1968.

Luis plans to retire this year, no matter what his results are.

As a side-note > Luis holds a win {W Dec 10} over 'Memo' Morales 1-year earlier, back
on March 31, 1969
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

~ Cruz Marcano Hammers Mexico's Ramirez, Wins One-Sided Decision ~

Venezuelan - Cruz Marcano, the #5 World-rated Featherweight hammered veteran Mexican -
Luis Ramirez for 10-Rounds in Caracas, Venezuela.

Marcano, also known as 'El Loco', used a steady assortment of left-jabs, and fast 'one-two'
combinations to the head of the slower-moving Ramirez.

Marcano was in control from the out-set, and floored the 27 1/2 year-old veteran with a
left-hook, and 'double' right-hand to the head in Round 7.

The Venezuelan displayed fine technique and quick-hands throughout the 10-Round bout.

Luis Ramirez showed heart-and-courage in taking a one-sided pounding, as well as fighting
back after suffering a Knockdown in Round 7.

Scorecards
* 100-92
* 99-91
* 100-90

June 24, 1970

~ Ring Magazine Featherweight Ratings ~

*** Vicente Saldivar > {WBC Champion}
#1 . Shozo Saijo > {WBA Champion}
#2 . Antonio Gomez
#3 . Raul Cruz
#4 . Kuniaki Shibata
#5 . Cruz Marcano
#6 . Jose Luis Pimentel
#7 . Jose Legra
#8 . Eder Jofre
#9 . Fernando Sotello
#10. Tomasso Galli

Venezuelan Fight Promoter - Ramiro Machado was 'negotiating' to set up a
WBA Championship bout between Shozo Saijo and either one of his Venezuelan
Featherweights in > Antonio Gomez or Cruz Marcano.

He was also working on the possibility, of getting Cruz Marcano a challenge at
WBA Super-Featherweight Champion - Hiroshi Kobayashi.

Cruz {Age; 24 years, 3 months} was more than willing to move up to 130 lbs.,
if he could get a Championship bout.

Ramiro Machado >

I have '3' of my fighters angling for a World Championship. > Antonio Gomez,
Cruz Marcano and Alfredo Marcano. Unfortunately for them, they all are competing
at the same weight . One of them will have to move up to {130 lbs.}, as there just
isn't enough World Title's to go around.

July 2, 1970

~ WBA Featherweight Rankings ~

*** Shozo Saijo
#1 . Vicente Saldivar > {WBC Champion}
#2 . Frankie Crawford
#3 . Antonio Gomez
#4 . Kuniaki Shibata
#5 . Cruz Marcano

~ Featherweight Happenings ~

{#1} Vicente Saldivar captured the WBC Featherweight Championship on May 9th.

{#2} Frankie Crawford was challenging WBA Champion - Shozo Saijo on July 5th, and in Japan.

{#3} Antonio Gomez had signed a contract to challenge the winner of the Shozo Saijo vs. Frankie Crawford
WBA Championship Bout. With a tentative date set for November 1970, and at the 'Olympic Auditorium' in California.

{#4} Kuniaki Shibata was aiming to challenge Vicente Saldivar for the WBC Championship, with the bout tentatively
set for later this year {November}.

{#5} Cruz Marcano was the 'odd-man out'.

August 1, 1970

Caracas, Venezuela

Venezuelan Fight Promoter - Ramiro Machado

Announced today that his fighter Cruz Marcano, the #5 WBA-ranked Featherweight will
be fighting later this month.

The promoter stated that Cruz will be fighting a 10-Round bout at the Nuevo Circo in
Caracas, against Mexico's - Guillermo 'Memo' Morales.

The Mexican Featherweight is the 'only' fighter to defeat the World-Rated - Cruz Marcano,
as he socred an 'upset' 10-Round Decision over Marcano on Febrary 20th, and in Caracas.

Ramiro Machado >

"This will be a bout of great interest. Mainly because, 'Memo' Morales has the style to give
'El Loco' Marcano a very difficult time in the Ring."

"Cruz wants this bout in the worst way. He needs to get revenge, before he challenges for
a World Championship."

{AP} Sunday ~ August 23, 1970

~ Venezuelan Boxer Dies In Car Crash ~

Cruz Marcano, the #5 World-Rated Featherweight boxer was killed in a car crash late
Satruday Night {August 22nd}.

The accident occurred around 11:00 PM - Saturday Night on a Mountain Road {Route 9}
along the northern shore in the Region of Pocotos, which is approximately 200 Miles east
of Caracas.

Cruz Marcano was returning to his home in Cumana, Venezuela after spending a Week
training at the Saint Theresa Gym in Caracas.

Reports stated that a car coming in the opposite direction crossed the center-line, and
collided head-on with the car that Cruz Marcano was driving. A passenger was also in the
vehicle with Mr. Marcano, but there have been no reports on that person's condition.

Ramiro Machado {Boxing Promoter and Boxing Manager} >

It is a tragedy. Cruz was a great person, and a fantastic boxer. He had a joy for life,
and loved his family.

He wanted to become a World Champion, to make some good money and to take care
of his family, especially his mother. He wanted to buy her a new home over-looking the
Caribbean Sea in Cumana.

Cruz had been training in Caracas for the week {Monday thru Saturday}. He left here
about 6:00 PM for the 6-Hour drive back home to Cumana. He planned to stay in Cumana
for 4-Days, and was planning to return back to Caracas next Thursday to resume training.

Additional Report >

Cruz Marcano {Age; 24 years, 5 months} had only lost 'once' in 29-Bouts over a 4-Year
career, in compiling a record of 25-1-3.

His nickname was 'El Loco' {The Crazy One}, for his sometime crazy antics in the Ring,
as in yelling at his opponent asking to be hit, or dropping his hands to his side and offering
up his chin as a target.

Cruz was scheduled for a bout at the Nuevo Circo in Caracas for September 5th, against
the only fighter to ever defeat him - Guillermo 'Memo' Morales.

The Venezuelan Press had projected Cruz Marcano as a future World Champion for 1971.