[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 124 (Thursday, September 17, 1998)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1750]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                       TRIBUTE TO WILFREDO GOMEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JOSE E. SERRANO

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 17, 1998

  Mr. SERRANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Mr. Wilfredo 
Gomez, an outstanding Puerto Rican athlete who has been a successful 
boxer. He was honored on Friday, September 11, at the ``Centro Cultural 
Latino'' in my Bronx congressional district.
  Mr. Gomez was born on October 29, 1956 in Santurce, Puerto Rico. His 
record speaks volumes about his achievements: 42 wins, 3 losses, 1 
draw, 40 knockouts. He is in the Boxing Hall of Fame in Canastota, New 
York.
  On May 21, 1977, he defeated by knockout Dong Kyum Yum in the 12th 
round to conquer the World Boxing Council (WBC) Junior Featherweight 
title. He defended that title 17 times and won all the fights by 
knockout which set a world record.
  On March 31, 1984, he defeated Juan Laporte for the World Boxing 
Council Featherweight title in 12 rounds and on May 19, 1995 defeated 
Rocky Lockridge for the World Boxing Association (WBA) Jr. Lightweight 
title.
  Through his long dedication and success in boxing, Mr. Gomez has 
served as a role model for millions of youngsters in the United States 
and Puerto Rico who, like him, dream of succeeding in the world of 
sports.
  Mr. Speaker I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Mr. 
Wilfredo Gomez for his contributions and dedication to boxing, as well 
as for serving as a role model for the youth of Puerto Rico and 
America.

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