Boxing in Las Vegas: A Great Man.htm

My son Joaquin always talked about Chico. This was his favorite boxer, His Idol. One day I received a call from my very good friend Amy Green. She said that Chico was going to personally call Joaquin. I was ecstatic for my son. I had to hold my tongue, so that, my son would be surprised.

His idol was about to call him to give him some encouraging words. We were going through a tough time after finding out our only daughter was to have a heart transplant. Chico called and spoke to Joaquin as if they were old friends. Chico told my son not to give up hope and to have faith. Joaquin was so shocked that his idol was on the other end of that phone. I will never forget the look on his face and the excitement of his voice. That was only the beginning.

That year, Joaquin's dog had two puppies. He named them Chico and Diego. Chico didn't make it, but, Diego is still with us. As a graduation present, my husband and I flew Joaquin to Las Vegas. He was to see the fight with us in the third row. This was the best seat we could find when ticket sales came out. Little did Joaquin know that he was about to met his Idol Diego "Chico" Corrales! With the help of my wonderful friend Amy, she set up press passes along with Butch. I conversed with him several times before actually meeting him.

We finally arrived in Vegas and Joaquin was none the wiser. We met Butch outside the press room. We were welcomed with open arms, big smiles and warm hearts. Butch gave us our passes and guided us into the room. Joaquin could not stop smiling and at the same time NERVOUS. He was about to meet his Idol face-to-face. Chico was amazing with his kindness. We meet his family and I was even allowed to hold his new precious daughter in my arms. His wife greeted us with "Family Love!" She was so sweet and I will never forget her. One of the best memories was when Chico gave us a great big smile from the stage. We were recognized with a thumbs up also.

People come in our lives and we know who are the special ones. Believe me, The Corrales', Butch and Mary Ann left us with the feeling of being part of a family. We will never forget the LOVE shown by these exceptional people. We now have another extended family. It is truly a great lose within our hearts. Our prayers go to Michelle that she may find the strength to go on. Butch and Mary Ann for the lose of their son! Amy Green for the great friend she had in Chico. Joaquin for the lose of his Idol. And for all those who worked with Chico throughout his career. God Bless!
En Paz Descanze Mi Querido Hermano!

Love within my heart,
Celenia Figueroa

Gone but not forgotten ,
Sixto Figueroa

My Hero,
Joaquin

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