HALL OF FAME FLIES FLAGS AT HALF-STAFF FOR WELTERWEIGHT CHAMPION JOSE NAPOLES

CANASTOTA, NY - AUGUST 17, 2019 -  The International Boxing Hall of Fame announced its flags will fly at half-staff in memory of two-time welterweight champion Jose “Mantequilla” Napoles, who died yesterday in Mexico City, Mexico. He was 79.

1990 Hall of Fame Inductee Jose Napole

“Jose Napoles was one of the most talented welterweight champions in history and his stylish moves in the ring provided countless thrills for boxing fans the world over,” said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy.  “The Hall of Fame joins the boxing community in mourning the passing of a legend and offers our condolences to his family.”

Born in Cuba in 1940, Napoles settled in Mexico early in his career and became a Mexican citizen. Nicknamed “Mantequilla” for his smooth boxing style, he reigned as welterweight champion of the world twice (1969-70, 1971-75) and registered 13 successful title defenses. Napoles compiled an impressive 82-7 (55 KOs) professional record that includes wins over Ernie Lopez, Hedgemon Lewis, Clyde Gray, Armando Muniz, Adolph Pruitt and Hall of Famers Eddie Perkins, Curtis Cokes and Emile Griffith.

In 1990, Napoles was elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.