WAGNER, DICK SIGNED PHOTO

JoSportsInc

Regular price $85.00

Dick Wagner was born Oct. 20, 1926, in Toppenish, Wash. Wagner developed a strong affinity for the Yakama tribal members he hung out with. He later established strong ties to the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. A childhood interest in boxing led to some early bouts on the Yakama reservation. After moving to Oregon City in 1943, he continued to look for matches. A friend told him he would have to go to New York if he wanted to pursue a career in the sport. His boxing career took off quickly as he won his first several matches. As he worked his way up the rankings, he began to draw tougher and tougher opponents. One of them was Jake LaMotta, immortalized by Robert DeNiro in the movie "Raging Bull." The fight was stopped in the ninth round, and the win awarded to LaMotta -- a decision that always troubled Wagner and his fans. He fought Floyd Patterson twice, losing by a decision in the first match in 1953. In a rematch eight months later, Wagner suffered a cut in the fifth round and lost by a technical knockout. He retired after that match. Dick Wagner passed away on September 11, 2006 in Tigard, Oregon at the age of 79. Offered here is a scarce signed photo of Dick Wagner which is inscribed to fellow fighter Johnny Papke.
This is an original, 8" x 10" promotional photogrpah of Wagner in full fight pose. Sepia tone. Boldly signed in ink, "To my pal Johnny Papke Dick Wagner 12/6/49." Signed at the height of his career. Has several compressions and a crease in upper right corner. Bold, clear image. Clean. 8" x 10."

Size: 8 x 10

Condition: very good