New Mexico Boxing Hall of Fame Night

By Andy Rivera

Last night in Roswell, NM the home of the New Mexico Boxing Hall of Fame, I had the honor and previledge to attend and introduce Dan Sisneros. It was a nice event put on by Ray Baca President of the Hall of Fame. M. C. and fellow boxing writer David Finger was as always a gentlemen and the perfect person for the job.

The 2023 inductees were all represented by family and friends, many came from as far as California and Colorado to honor their honoree.

Inductees

Dan Sisneros- Dan started the 8 Count Boxing Hour and is known as New Mexico’s Boxing guru. Dan is who everyone came out each week to see his show, he was boxing media before there was internet. Dan has been a contributor for boxrec and wrote Mat Tales. Besides his media role in boxing, Dan was a New Mexico boxing judge adding to his love for boxing. I was asked by Dan to introduce him and it was an honor I will cherish for a lifetime.

James Meyers- James was a three time open Golden Gloves champion in the 70’s. He has been a pillar in Roswell in helping his community and served his country in the military. James is minister and continues to be a model citizen to his family and Roswell community.

Joey Olguin- know as ”Joltin Joey” in his fighting days. Olguin was 32-4, his professional career. Olguin was ranked as height as # 3 by The Ring Magazine in the lightweight division. He was also Ring Magazine‘s “Prospect of the Month” in their May edition in 1964. Olguin was presented by his nephew Flory Olguin Jr. and daughter Lanette Vaughan.

Rudy Lovato- Rudy was a professional fighter who had over 70 professional fights and fought a who’s who in the welterweight division. He was traind by legendary Champion Bob Foster and won the WBC CAM Title.

Delia Gonzalez- Delia was a two time women’s world champion winning the WIBF Flyweight and Super Flyweight Championships in 1995-96. Gonzalez had 14-9-5 record as a professional.

Lifetime Achievement Willie Hall Sr. - Willie was a Golden gloves champions and later turned to training kids in his native of Roswell. He devoted his time to help kids stay off the streets. After Willie’s passing, his son Willie Hall Jr has kept his fathers dream alive and continues to run the gym training kids.

Again thank you to the NM Boxing Hall of Fame and their well put on event. Looking forward to attending more in the future.