They call him "The pride of Avenal". The community packed into a theatre in town to watch Jose Ramirez.
They left disappointed with the result but still proud of their hometown son. There are banners up lining the road when you come into town. His name is on the marquee. It was packed inside the theatre.
Through three rounds residents say there was excitement, anxiety, and even some frustration. Everyone we talked with says Ramirez got shortchanged.
Residents believe the judges underscored him. They also think the Olympic judging is just flawed.
"I really believe he won this fight. He's not getting Olympic gold but he will have gold around him. I'm still proud of that guy," said one supporter.
"I think they should have gave him more points. He landed more clean hits than the other guy did," said another supporter.
"Win lose or draw. He's our favorite son," said the mayor.
The city is organizing an event to welcome Ramirez back into town.
TXT 24
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