Every town has a hero...
In Avenal, it's Jose Ramirez.
He gives people hope in a town where it can be hard to find.
"He's a hero... He's been boxing since he was a little kid."
"He gave us a speech and he taught me not to lose hope in anything that I do."
He inspires everyone in town.
He was a top ranked amatuer boxer...
He made it to the Olympics...
Now he's making his pro debut and fighting in the same ring as Manny Pacquiao.
Carlos Contreras is a friend but couldn't make it to the fight.
"It's an inspiration for all these kids...Even for myself you know...It's something huge...Someone from such a small community is doing something huge like that it's just inspiration for everybody."
It's been the talk of the town, and although, Ramirez is on the under card, for most people, his fight is the main event.
"Pacquio and Marquez fight is huge but we're actually looking forward to Jose and his fight."
"For the town and the valley, this is it... Jose Ramirez."
For Ramirez, it's the beginning of the road.
And no matter what happens, his town will always be behind him.
Ramirez started boxing in a small gym in Avenal...
His original trainer, Armando Mancinas is still with him and was in his corner for his first pro fight.
TXT 24
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