ROSSMAN, MIKE SIGNED PROMOTIONAL PHOTO

HISTORY: Mike Rossman (born Michael Albert DePiano on July 1, 1955) is an American former professional boxer who was the WBA light heavyweight champion of the world. He is of Jewish–Italian origin, which led to his monikers "The Kosher Butcher" and "The Jewish Bomber". Rossman was born in Turnersville, New Jersey. His birth name was Michael Albert DePiano; Rossman is his mother's maiden name, which he uses rather than that of his father as part of an appeasement agreement. Rossman's father was Italian, and his mother Jewish. He began boxing at 14 and turned pro on August 10, 1973. Rossman fought Víctor Galíndez for the light heavyweight championship of the world on the undercard of an Ali–Spinks rematch in September 1978. Many thought Galindez would defeat him, but Rossman opened up cuts over Galindez's eyes and continued fighting until near the end of the 13th round, when the referee stopped the fight, and Rossman became world champion. Rossman made one successful defense before his hometown Philadelphia fans in December of the same year, stopping Italian challenger Aldo Traversaro in the fifth round after opening a wound on Aldo's forehead with a left hook. Later, after losing the title back to Galindez in 1979, his career declined as he lost several matches; he never again fought a title match. He fought into the early 1980s, and perhaps the biggest name he faced in post-championship status was the upstart Dwight Braxton (today known as Dwight Muhammad Qawi), who defeated him in seven rounds in May 1981. 

Offered here is a signed promotional photograph of Mike Rossman.

FULL DESCRIPTION: This is a promotional photograph of Mike Rossman as he looked at the height of his career. Boldly signed in blue sharpie, "To Jerry Keep Punching Mike Rossman World Light Heavyweight Champion." Not creased or torn. Clean front and back. Bold, clear image. 8 1/2" x 11."