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10/05/2008 Archived Entry: "Tony 'The Rock' La Rosa Passes!"
Tony 'The Rock' La Rosa Passes!
By Rick Ramos
www.rickramosboxing.com
La Rosa (right) seen here taking it to Iran Barkley (Photo courtesy of Rick Ramos)
[Editor's note: Our condolensces to the family and friends of Tony La Rosa, a gutsy warrior who fought from September 1988 through August 2004 in amassing a record of 32-23 and 18 knockouts. You can find his record at the following link:
http://www.boxrec.com/list_bouts.php?human_id=6632&cat=boxer
Rick Ramos, who co-owns the Chicago Boxing Club with Sam Colonna, was mentored in boxing by La Rosa]
CHICAGO -- Tony "The Rock" La Rosa passed away tonight. La Rosa was a popular fighter out of the Bridgeport Neighborhood and fought out of the Windy City Boxing gym in Chicago, where he was trained by the legendary coach, Sam Colonna.
La Rosa has fought with the likes of Wladimir Klitschko, Trevor Berbick, Lamon Brewster and James "Buster" Douglas.
We will miss you Champ!!! -RR
"Tony "The Rock" La Rosa will be missed. La Rosa was the guy who first took me to the gym. I remember how he showed up to my first fight to wish me luck. Tony, being so popular back then, always made me feel like I was the CHAMP and he was a fan.
Tony and I recently had words (last week) and and I made it clear to him that without knowing him, I would have NEVER been a fighter or gym owner. I will keep him in my thoughts and my prayers.
God Bless your soul CHAMP.
* * *
Name: Tony LaRosa
Career Record: 32-23 and 18 knockouts
Alias: The Rock
Nationality: US American
Hometown: Chicago, Illinois, USA
Born: 1967-07-27
Stance: Orthodox
Height: 5 10
Reach: 183
LaRosa ended his professional boxing days in 2004 with a final record of 32-23. In a career that had several stumbling blocks, LaRosa can be proud of his 1994 victories over Lenny LaPaglia who previosly held the IBO Lightheavyweight title and his IBO Heavyweight title win over Frank Minton. Despite ending his ring record with several losses, LaRosa did manage to collect wins over some former world champions. Those victories included Trevor Berbick in 1999, and both Iran Barkley and Dwight Muhammad Qawi in 1998.
Replies: 50 Comments on this article
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Posted by yfqokake @ 10/12/2008 10:39 PM EST
I knew Tony in passing from the fight game and always liked him. But, wow, all this bashing is shameful. The bible in the book of John 8:16 "He who is without sin, cast the first stone." We are all sinners, that is why God sent his only Son, to save us. Tony made some mistakes in life, like we all have, and all will. He was a nice man who did have love in his heart and a belief in God. Please, everyone, let God and only God be the judge. I will leave you all with this...God loves ALL of us!!!!!!!!!! Rest in peace Tony.
Posted by Marzillo5@aol.com">Gerry Marzillo @ 10/11/2008 05:37 PM EST
I knew Tony in passing from the fight game and always liked him. But, wow, all this bashing is shameful. The bible in the book of John 8:16 "He who is without sin, cast the first stone." We are all sinners, that is why God sent his only Son, to save us. Tony made some mistakes in life, like we all have, and all will. He was a nice man who did have love in his heart and a belief in God. Please, everyone, let God and only God be the judge. I will leave you all with this...God loves ALL of us!!!!!!!!!! Rest in peace Tony.
Posted by Marzillo5@aol.com">Gerry Marzillo @ 10/11/2008 05:37 PM EST
what kind of accident was he in ?????? does anyone know.
Posted by michelle @ 10/11/2008 11:48 AM EST
I met and dated Tony in early 2000. On our first date, he took me to meet his family at his Mom's house. The Tony I knew at the time was a gentleman, outgoing, fun loving and proud of his family and career. Ultimately things didn't work out for us, but we remained friends and he kept in touch for a while. It's been years since I've spoken to him, but I always hoped that he would find his way. I was shocked and saddened to hear of his untimely death. My prayers and condolences are with his family and friends. May God Bless You All.
Posted by Michelle @ 10/11/2008 01:04 AM EST
If people want to continue to use this web site to fight with each other and disrespect the deceased you should shut it down.It's sad that something done with good intentions turns into this. Anyways my condolences to his family.He ws a nice guy.
[EDITOR'S NOTE: THE FIGHTING AND DISRESPECT MUST STOP. INAPPROPRIATE COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED. AND, IF THIS CONTINUES TOO MUCH LONGER, I WILL SHUT DOWN THE COMMENTS SECTION ON THIS PIECE.]
Posted by friend @ 10/10/2008 06:03 PM EST
Veronica, I'm with you. He was amazing man to love. Peaches is just pissed that she was never loved by tony the way others where. Im just sorry that we weren't all able to tell him all this before.
Posted by dee @ 10/09/2008 10:41 PM EST
for peaches. i've known tony for some time. knew him before the accident and then he stayed with me for awhile after. i took care of him. i love him. and for u to say such horrible things about a man i love, who was simply an amazing person. [bleep] u!!!!! there is no perfect person, we all have a past that we might not be proud of, and tony never made excusses for his mistakes. my respects and prayers for the LaRosa family.
Posted by veronica @ 10/09/2008 07:18 PM EST
Rick, Thanks for getting this started ..it's been wonderful reading all the great things about Tony. Besides the few negative people out there ..this has been so refreshing to read! .. Tony La Rosa what a guy!!!
Posted by Just a Bridgeporter & Friend @ 10/09/2008 02:32 PM EST
I was thinking alot the last couple of days...and like i sai before, TONY brought me in the "fight game" (as a boxer) and NOW I train/manage fighters. I was thinking that - every little kid/man/woman I train, they will ALL carry a lil piece of THE ROCK with them. WOW.. (TO ME) That is the REASON he was speical!!! Your dreams and goals will LIVE on for YEARS to come my friend.
God Bless you Tony....
Posted by Rick Ramos @ 10/09/2008 12:52 PM EST
Hey Peaches, do you think you will have as many people at your wake as Tony had at his?
Posted by Anonymous @ 10/09/2008 12:31 PM EST
May the La Rosa family feel comfort at this difficult time, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Tony was always the life of the party and knew how to put a smile on anyone's face. He will be missed by many! Tony may you rest in peace, you are in a much better place.
Posted by A fan of the ROCK @ 10/09/2008 09:31 AM EST
May God be with Tony & his entire family at this very trying time. God Bless Tony, Tim "Bull" Grzenia
Posted by Tim "Bull" Grzenia @ 10/08/2008 04:12 PM EST
I met Tony just 10 days ago at Schaller's. That's where he had become friends with my dad during the past year, and my dad took Tony & his mom last week for his surgery. My dad never had anything but great things to say about Tony. Seems to me like the world just lost a really decent person. Rest well, Tony.
Posted by Megan @ 10/08/2008 02:27 PM EST
Some of these entries are horrible, tasteless, classless and should not be able to be viewed on this blog. This is a horrific time for many especially his family. Have some respect. Let this end. Let Tony rest. Let peace be with his family. Life is to short, we all know and experienced one time or another or at this time. Lets share stories about the "fun days", and all the "good things", "cherished moments", "FRIENDSHIP". At this time find peace in your hearts and compassion for a good family. I am a mother, sister, aunt and friend myself and I feel you emptiness. To the LaRosa Family, many prayers to you all. Let's not forget Tony a son,a brother, a uncle and a friend.
Posted by friend @ 10/08/2008 01:19 PM EST
My cousin Tony and I knew each other since the day he was born and I am gonna miss him deeply. We had such great times together, from hanging out somewhere at a local tavern in Bridgeport, going to a SOX game to hanging out on the beach in Cancun. He really showed me a good time no matter what we did and introduced me to so many people. He was a true gentleman and everyone loved being around him, he always made sure that everyone was having fun. Tony, I love you and I will miss you! You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers, and you will always have a place in my heart. God Bless you Cuz! Bobby
Posted by Bobby @ 10/08/2008 12:57 PM EST
tomy was one of the most gentlest giants I had the great pleaseure to know. He forever will remain one of the most gracious men of this world. We will miss you now but will meet again....my condolences to his family and his many friends who loved him.
Sue Sabella
Posted by Sue Sabella @ 10/08/2008 12:45 PM EST
"The Rock" !!! Thanks for all the good times. You'll NEVER be forgotten. Your friend, Darrell
Posted by Darrell Humphries @ 10/08/2008 12:22 PM EST
Tony we had some great times. I'll see you on the other side. You'll be sorely missed! Your bro, Mad Dog.
Posted by Mad Dog Madison @ 10/08/2008 12:21 PM EST
I can't remember not knowing Tony. He was always a gentleman anytime I saw him. Years could pass without running into him but when I did he always said "hi" and gave me a kiss. My last memory of him was watching him and Frank Murphy jump out of a Rickshaw in front of Titos during the World Series in 05'. He had a big smile on his face. That is how I will remember Tony. My prayers are with the family during this tough time. I will miss you Tony, rest in peace.
Posted by tpalmsone55@sbcglobal.net">Teresa Palmsone @ 10/08/2008 10:38 AM EST
I grew up with Tony. Have known him all my life and I can say with pride we had been friends the entire time! Tony like everyone else had his flaws but through all his flaws his heart over shined them all! Tony would give the shirt off his back, the last two nickels he had if you needed them. I tell you I never seen so many fake people come out of the wood work than after Tony had won a fight and collected his purse, he knew they were around just to get free drinks and share the spotlight of the evening with him but he didn't care! That's the kind of guy he was! When he needed something or someone he knew those people would not be around but he still showed them a good time! That is how The Rock was! My friend I will truly miss you and am glad we talked regularly! Joey, Jimmy be proud of your brother he was a true Champ! My heart goes out to you all!
Posted by A Buddy @ 10/08/2008 09:00 AM EST
To The LaRosa family, no matter what people say you had a good one. There will be a little less smiles in the world now. Your son had a big heart and knew how to make peoples days a little better He will be truely missed. I love you Tony and wish you nothing but peace.
Posted by friend @ 10/08/2008 07:13 AM EST
Tony, Will Not Be Forgotten. I seen him run thru the streets of Bridgeport. Feezin cold,rain and heat. I new he was on his journey. May peace be sent to the LaRosa family during this difficult time.R.S.
Posted by R.S. @ 10/08/2008 02:31 AM EST
God bless the larosa family.no matter what these people are saying,you raised a real champ and he is the type of person that will never be forgotten....god bless you CHAMP
Posted by john flynn @ 10/07/2008 10:54 PM EST
To any of us writing on this blog using statements like "He was no angle" or "He had his illnesses" or "He made bad decisions", I say [bleep] YOU!!!! Whether your sitting there typing your messages with added niceities and nastalgic sstories to convey what a friend Tony was or how you knew or knew of him, their shows little class to even speak any negative of man who has past. A man who was a son ,a brother, an uncle, and a human. Im glad so many can write some glorious and fun times they shared w/ THE ROCK and still sneak in the negatives. I knew Tony for a short period only and we became pretty close at the time. Although I havn't seen him in quite some time, the few years that we were tight He made a huge impression on me as a guy who knew what it was to be a friend. To the Larosa family, my deepest condolances and my prayers. To Ricky Ramos, thanks for intiating a kind send off to a great human. And to all the "perfect stone throwers", Im glad your life is so flawless. Hopefully the BIG MAN upstairs will role out the red carpet for you when its your turn and the bloggers will write about what a jagg off you were.GOD BLESS YOU ROCK
Posted by james_spalla@yahoo.com">James Spalla @ 10/07/2008 09:23 PM EST
i was a fly on the wall at valentine b.c. back in the day and never forgot when tony pat me on the back, called me the most improved guy in the gym and complemented my jab. i never forgot the time he gave stable mate phil scott a used car . if tony was'nt at punchy's thenight frank scalise and his boys were getting ready to take me downtown for being an outsider i certainly would a taken a beating. when i saw tony at jimbo's after his recent consruction accident i almost cried goin to the game. he did'nt show a drop a self pity just seemed determined to get back in therapy and get better. i look back to the old days at valentine and wonder why so many talented young boxer out of that stable have meet such trajedy.
Posted by zenbr5@aol.com">marty tunney @ 10/07/2008 09:20 PM EST
Im sorry to hear about Tony .My sincere condolences to his friends and family.I fought on the same card with Tony at the Park West back in the late eighties.I remember thinking he was a real good fighter and a nice guy.He is in my prayers.
Brian
Posted by Brian Higgins @ 10/07/2008 09:03 PM EST
This is to peaches, Tony wasn't always the best person, he had his illness and didn't always make the right choices. BUT IT WAS A ILLNESS.To all those who knew tony knew that he loved his women and loved to be in love. I was lucky enough to be one of those women. Even though he wasn't boyfriend matter, he was great friend matterial. I was blessed to have him as my friend. Even after 6 years he would call out of the blue to just say hi or be there when you just wanted to talk to someone. So peaches, it just sounds like he picked a bad peach when he met you and your just sour. To the rest of us he'll always be loved and be missed forever. My prayers go out to the family, your son had a great heart.
Posted by dee @ 10/07/2008 07:20 PM EST
i just want to personly thank peaches for making a hard time even harder for my mother to deal with, if anyone knows who this cunt is i will personly pay you to beat the piss out of her, pray to god i dont find out who you are, you have to be some random whore that my brother had his way with and you have an axe to grind, but youbeing the cunt you are didnt take into concideration what this is like on his family, there's not a person out there who had a harder time forgiving him then me, but good or bad in the end he still was my brother and my mother's son!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! so this is for anyone else out there who wants to be alittle cunt like our fav whore ''peaches'' do me and my fam a big favor and keep the bullshitcomments to yourselfs, if not have the balls to tell them to my face so i can slap the shit out of you, thanks
Posted by larosa@sbcglobal.netthis">jimmy larosa @ 10/07/2008 06:54 PM EST
Tony started coming to The Valentine Boys Club just as I left the program where Tony Zale and Frank Coe were trying to make a boxer out of me. I went on to pursue a career of 20 years in preofessional wrestling. Tony was a humbled person who thrived on his dedication to boxing. Sam Colona molded a true heroe from Bridgeport. His class out weighed his love for the sport. No one can say Tony didn't do it. He did it and with much success and honor. I enjoyed my moments with Tony and I know we will meet again in the sports hall of fame in the sky. I love Tony La Rosa.
The Russian Brute...
Posted by George Petraski @ 10/07/2008 06:47 PM EST
Wow.. I would NEVER do that. Tony and I were friends. We are from the SAME hood. NO ONE else stepped up to do ANYTHING... so I DID. I NEVER ONCE BROUGHT UP MY GYM!!!!! The Editor did!!! If you have ANYTHING to say..call!!
[Editor's note: That was MY fault. It was not meant as a plug, but a way of substantiating who Rick is to the uninitiated. My appologies if that was offensive!]
Posted by Rick Ramos @ 10/07/2008 05:52 PM EST
Hey Tony.. I was sitting here with Johnny Lewus. He says "hey" and "I love you kid.. we go way back. We had good times!"
God Bless you..
Johnny Lewus
Posted by Rick @ 10/07/2008 05:48 PM EST
Rick,I HOPE you're not using this tragedy as a cheap opportunity to plug your gym. It kind of looks that way.Shame on you!!
Posted by Offended @ 10/07/2008 05:38 PM EST
Tony was a human being that made mistakes in life. You live and hopefully you learn. There is good and bad in ALL. If what YOU choose bad over the good that is YOUR choice. Good over-powers evil. Tony was still a son, brother, uncle, friend he was a person no matter what. It doesn't matter anymore he is no longer here. Let him rest and let his family rest. Let the man above judge. To the he La Rosa Family, I am sorry for your loss. Tony, you will always be remembered no matter what.
Posted by a friend @ 10/07/2008 05:15 PM EST
Peaches,
Who ever this is hiding behind "Peaches" should be ashamed of them selves.
No matter what a person has done in life in none of anyone elses business.
I grew up in Bridgeport and have known Tony since I stepped into Studio 31 at age 16. Tony was always the gentlmen. Always had a smile and a nice word and if he knew you and there was a problem-he had your back-the good ol days of being from the neighborhood !!
Everyone has their own problems in life and what a mother does for her child is none of anyones god damn business and for Peaches to air that after Tony passes is just classless and tasteless. If you had any balls you would step up and say your name or keep it away from the public eye.
Tony, you were a good guy to have around in the neigborhood and in Studio. We werent the best of friends-he knew me and we shared many Heinikins and Absoluts and tonics.If you were having a bad day-you stepped into Studio and seen Tony O and Tony and it made that day go away.
Tony, may you rest in peace and may your family be at peace knowing that you had many friends and placed a smile on many faces.
God Bless The Rock !!!!
Posted by Stephen @ 10/07/2008 04:10 PM EST
Timing is everything. We all know Tony was no angel....When somethings may be the truth...there is a time and a place to say them. I don't believe this was the right time or the right forum to air out Tony's wrong doing. He is being Judged by God now. It's our job to forgive and pray for his soul. Rest In Peace Tony.
Posted by Anonymous @ 10/07/2008 02:01 PM EST
To Peaches, with a name like Peaches it sounds like you belong on a pole. Tony was a good person with a lot of good qualities he will be missed by many, he was always a gentleman and treated people with respect. Tony was a friend for twenty years and I have only good memories, you should be ashamed of yourself posting that article at a time like this.
Posted by Anonymous @ 10/07/2008 01:41 PM EST
This message is to "Peaches!" Sometimes in life your toughest opponent is YOURSELF! Tony did not always make the best decisions ..but sometimes in life you take the WRONG path. I am sorry you feel the way you do but I (rick ramos) do the "REAL" Tony and I am glad I met him.
Posted by Rick Ramos @ 10/07/2008 10:38 AM EST
No matter how Tony lived his life..there is only one judge & that is not u, Peaches. Addiction is a disease. some people can never regain control. Being a Mother & having a child with an addiction is a horrible journey..to see your child suffer..no matter how old they r is heartbreaking. this is the path God chose for them. u must love unconditionally and pray for his soul. No one is without sin & God loves sinners the most. God Rest your soul Tony...be in peace with the Lord & many blessings to the La Rosa Family.
Posted by Anonymous @ 10/07/2008 10:36 AM EST
I Referee'd many of Tony's bouts both Amateur & Professional.He was a clean fighter & always gave it his best.The best bout I ever worked was him against Lenny LaPaglia as he came back from almost being Ko'd to srop Lenny.GOD BLESS & his family.Tony will be in my prayers.
Posted by oleary90@aol.com">Sean Curtin @ 10/07/2008 09:11 AM EST
I Referee'd many of Tony's bouts both Amateur & Professional.He was a clean fighter & always gave it his best.The best bout I ever worked was him against Lenny LaPaglia as he came back from almost being Ko'd to srop Lenny.GOD BLESS & his family.Tony will be in my prayers.
Posted by oleary90@aol.com">Sean Curtin @ 10/07/2008 09:10 AM EST
Thanks to everyone for your thoughts and prayers.The Wake is Wednesday, Oct. 8th, at Dalcamo Funeral Home from 4pm-9pm. Memorial Service on Thursday, Oct. 9th at 10:30am at Dalcamo Funeral Home. Please do not send flowers. Tony is now at peace in God's hands.
Posted by Kelly La Rosa (Sister-in-Law) @ 10/07/2008 06:19 AM EST
You must not know the REAL Tony - What he did to his family, especially his mother is unforgivable. Playing her emotions for money to bail him out of jail and pay for a never ending drug habit. Now she has nothing, no money to bury her son. His passing is a blessing. He will no longer be able to take advantage of her. The tangled web of lies are now silenced, forever. Tony's family can now rest peacefully.
Posted by Peaches @ 10/06/2008 09:45 PM EST
anthony,i can't believe your gone...i'm at a lost for words. i know no matter what,you will always be champ to me!! will miss ya paisan...nick carvotta
Posted by nick carvotta @ 10/06/2008 08:18 PM EST
Sometimes in life your toughest opponent is YOURSELF! God Bless Champ!
Posted by John @ 10/06/2008 01:30 PM EST
Tony was a GOD in Bridgeport in his prime. He loved being THE ROCK..watching him in his prime was a GREAT site. I will always remember the fight between him and Lenny LaPaglia. I believe there were 4 or 5 knock downs in 3 rnds.
Tony won... good times.
Posted by Rick Ramos @ 10/06/2008 01:28 PM EST
A favorite of my boyfriend's friends, Tony was the best kind of boxer...tough but with a loving nature. Meeting up with him at Jimbo's was always a highlight. He was always on his best behavior and in the best spirits, no matter what punches life was throwing at him. I will miss seeing you, Tony. You are in my heart forever. "Peanut"
Posted by Peanut @ 10/06/2008 11:58 AM EST
