Rocky Graziano (1922–1990) was a fighter in every sense. Born Thomas Rocco Barbella in New York City, he grew up tough in the Lower East Side, where brawling came before boxing. That toughness would one day crown him Middleweight Champion of the World.

Known for his explosive right hand and refusal to quit, Graziano won the title in 1946 by defeating Tony Zale in their legendary second match. Although Zale reclaimed the title two years later, Graziano's grit and heart were undeniable.

“You can’t let defeat get to you,” Graziano once said. “You have to get up and keep punching.”

He faced Sugar Ray Robinson in 1952, his final shot at a title. Robinson won in three rounds, but Graziano kept swinging in life. He retired with 67 wins, 52 by knockout. His autobiography, Somebody Up There Likes Me, became a Hollywood hit starring Paul Newman.

After retiring from boxing, Graziano stayed in the spotlight with appearances on TV and in movies, often playing himself with humorous flair. A natural entertainer, he brought grit, charm, and raw honesty wherever he went. Fellow champ Vito Antuofermo once said, "He had all the guts in the world."

And he also had confidence and candor: “A lot of people say I wouldn’t have amounted to much. But I did. I amounted to me.”