Former light heavyweight world champion Mike Rossman has suffered a stroke and is currently receiving treatment in a rehabilitation center. Rossman, now 70 years old, won the world title at just 23, surprisingly taking it from the formidable Argentine boxer Victor Galindez. The Veteran Boxers’ Association (VBA), an organization that helps and supports former boxers in need, has launched a fundraiser to aid Rossman’s recovery.
When he stepped into the ring at the Louisiana Superdome in New Orleans to face Rossman, Galindez was coming off ten consecutive title defenses of the belt he had won nearly four years earlier and was widely considered the clear favorite. The young challenger therefore accomplished a true sporting miracle, managing to win before the limit by scoring a technical knockout in the thirteenth round.
Rossman’s reign as world champion was short-lived: after defeating Italy’s Aldo Traversaro by stoppage due to a cut, the American was beaten in a rematch by Galindez in a fight where he broke his right hand. The “Jewish Bomber” never managed to return to the top and retired from professional boxing at just 28 years old.
Not everyone knows that Rossman’s original name was Michael Albert DePiano, a reflection of his father’s Italian heritage. However, Mike chose to use his mother’s surname, Rossman.
The goal of the fundraiser launched by the VBA is to raise $25,000 to help cover the expenses Rossman will face during his rehabilitation process. Anyone wishing to donate can do so directly on the Veteran Boxers’ Association website. [CLICK HERE TO DONATE]