The late Genaro "Chicanito" Hernandez was beloved in the boxing community, and his passing on June 7 at the age of 45 was a day of mourning for the boxing world. He battled cancer bravely for years, continuing to work in boxing when he could, and in February spoke with the Los Angeles Times:
"I feel like an old man that somebody needs to take care of," says Hernandez, who will turn 45 in May. "For awhile, I lost 50 pounds. I limp. I've got tumors on both shoulders, one on each thigh, one on my neck and three on my back. I haven't been able to produce any saliva for the last two years.
"I'm hanging in there."
Hernandez retired in 1998 with a career record of 38-2-1 (17 KO), his only career losses coming against Hall of Fame-bound Oscar de la Hoya and Floyd Mayweather Jr, and he picked up two world titles in his memorable career, too.
Those who wish to make a donation to the memorial fund for "Chicanito" can do so by mailing a check or money order to this address:
Lilian Hernandez
2321 Wall St.
Los Angeles, Calif., 90011
The Hernandez family thanks you.