Al Certo, who boxed under the name of Al Certisimo, was born in Hoboken on September 28. 1928. At the age of 19 he took up amateur boxing and capped an unbeaten amateur career by winning the Golden Gloves title in the 135 lb. class. Certo turned pro and the winning streak continued. He reeled off 20 triumphs, including 11 kayos, before losing to Benny Hernandez in Brooklyn.
Certo’s career was cut short when he cut his hand with a saw while helping his brother remodel a car wash. Certo didn’t stop there. He has run many benefits and fund raisers, bringing in such greats as Rocky Graziano, Willie Pep, Jake LaMotta, Joey Giardello, Tippy Larkin, Carmen Basilio and Jack Dempsey just to name a few.
Certo later became an outstanding promoter and manager, handling some of the top ringmen.
some of the fighters he trained:
Mustafa Hamsho (Second Hagler Fight)
Edwin Viruet
Adolpho Viruet
Buddy McGirt Jr.
Andrew Golota
Little known that Certo was Frank Sinatra's personal tailor
Certo’s career was cut short when he cut his hand with a saw while helping his brother remodel a car wash. Certo didn’t stop there. He has run many benefits and fund raisers, bringing in such greats as Rocky Graziano, Willie Pep, Jake LaMotta, Joey Giardello, Tippy Larkin, Carmen Basilio and Jack Dempsey just to name a few.
Certo later became an outstanding promoter and manager, handling some of the top ringmen.
some of the fighters he trained:
Mustafa Hamsho (Second Hagler Fight)
Edwin Viruet
Adolpho Viruet
Buddy McGirt Jr.
Andrew Golota
Little known that Certo was Frank Sinatra's personal tailor
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