An Autograph Worth Waiting For …

By David Martinez / Boxing Historian / dmboxing.com

I am truly blessed. In my sixty plus years in boxing, I have obtained autographs of some of the greatest boxers who ever lived. A few to mention are, Sugar Ray Robinson, Muhammad Ali, Roberto Duran, Jack Dempsey, Max Baer, Ernie Terrell, Jerry Quarry, George Foreman, Larry Holmes, and Julio Cesar Chavez.   

However, there are two autographs I have always wanted, but never acquired – Sonny Liston and Rocky Marciano. Well, one of those just came my way in a surprising fashion. 

While recently in Chicago, I had the pleasure of being introduced to Edward Bartt. He is a little older than I am and attended many fights before my time. He is very knowledgeable on boxing from the 1940’s and 1950s. During this time Ed lived in Chicago and saw many of the great fighters, from that era, fight in person at the old Chicago Stadium and other venues around that once great fight town.

Mauro DiFiore, Edward Bartt, David Martinez October 22, 2022

He and I talked at length about our boxing experiences, and he mentioned he once met Rocky Marciano. They sat next to each other on an airplane and talked boxing for the entire flight. I was amazed by Ed’s experiences in boxing and his anecdotes. Then, he offered to send me a copy of a print featuring Marciano’s knockouts to add in my collection and that print featured a signature of none other than Marciano. Now this copy isn’t actually signed by Marciano, but it is the next best thing to having an original Marciano signature. It is a beautiful and significant addition to my collection. 

I must admit that I was stunned and told him that in past years I have received lots of gifts in boxing … But his was one of the best.

Isn’t it funny how things in life have a delightful way of coming around – THANK YOU Ed Bartt – your kindness, giving and friendship are much appreciated!

One thought on “An Autograph Worth Waiting For …

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *