Former heavyweight champion
John Ruiz, president
of the American Fighting
Organization (AFO), is
pictured with Deb Cronin,
marketing coordinator for
the organization.
John Ruiz has returned to the boxing world with significant new responsibilities.
The Chelsea native who made history as the first Latino heavyweight champion of the world is now serving as president of the American Fighting Organization (AFO) and an official promoter of Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) fights. The AFO will organize boxing events throughout New England.
Operating the Quiet Man Sports Gym in Medford, Ruiz is also pursuing a professional boxing promoter’s license in Massachusetts with plans to launch boxing promotions in early 2014.
“We are going to put on the best shows in New England,” said Ruiz. “I’m investing a lot of money to promote events and fighters in addition to putting on great MMA and boxing shows for fans.”
The new enterprise involves several family members. Eddie Ruiz, who served as John’s cornerman during his boxing career, holds the position of second-in-command at the AFO. Robert Ruiz manages the organization’s finances, while sister Jackie Ruiz serves as secretary.
Ruiz has brought on Deb Cronin as marketing coordinator for the AFO. A 1985 Chelsea High graduate and former Red Devils cheerleader, Cronin is helping to organize a Ring Card Girl contest scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 5 from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at Quiet Man Sports Gym, 4000 Mystic Valley Parkway (inside Gold’s Gym).
The Ring Card Girl finals competition will take place on Jan. 4 at The Greatest Bar in Boston. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
“We’re working on the Ring Card Girl promotion and move ahead to our first MMA show,” said Ruiz. “We’re also looking at different venues where we will hold the shows. This sport has a big following in Massachusetts and it’s growing each day.”
Ruiz’s athletic accomplishments extend back through his entire life in Chelsea. As a youth, he competed in long-distance running and participated in local youth baseball, basketball, and Pop Warner football.
During his time at Chelsea High, Ruiz played football and basketball. He started as tight end for the CHS football team in its final Thanksgiving game against Everett in 1989.
As an amateur, Ruiz rose to prominence among the nation’s top fighters and advanced to the 1992 Olympic trials in Worcester. A controversial decision ended his Olympic aspirations when the punch-tabulating machines malfunctioned during his bout against Jeremy Williams. The judges’ decision favored Williams, though many spectators believed Ruiz had landed more punches.
After turning professional, Ruiz captured the WBA heavyweight championship by knocking down Evander Holyfield in a title bout in Las Vegas. His victory sparked celebrations in both Chelsea and Puerto Rico, where a parade honored his achievement as the first Latino heavyweight champion of the world.
According to Ruiz, the AFO is actively seeking sponsorships from local businesses for upcoming events and boxing shows. Those interested in sponsorship opportunities should contact Deb Cronin at TheDeb67@gmail/com or visit the AFO Web site: HYPERLINK “http://www.AFOMMA.com” www.AFOMMA.com. (Information from the AFO Web site was used for this story).