Ronnie Harris

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For the Olympic boxer who won the bronze medal at the 1968 Olympic Ganes, see Ronald Allen Harris.

Men's Boxing
Olympic medal record
Gold	1968 Mexico City	Lightweight

Ronnie W. "Mazel" Harris (born in Canton, Ohio) is a former American boxer, who won a gold medal in the lightweight division at the 1968 Summer Olympics.

1 Personal
2 Amateur Career
3 Pro Career
4 External links
5 Refences

[edit] Personal

Harris is a follower of the Jewish Faith. One day while doing roadwork, Harris was hit by a car. He claimed that he was asked to forget the whole thing by a member of the clergy. Harris said he became religiouly lost, until he stumbled into a Jewish Temple. Harris changed his faith and took the nickname "Mazel" which means good luck. He also wore a Star of David on his boxing trunks.

There are photos of Harris wearing a Hebrew skullcap in the ring. He even brought a law suit against promoters in New York who had pro fights on a Friday Night; the Sabbath, a night in which Harris could not work.

[edit] Amateur Career

Harris had an outstanding amateur career, winning the 1966, 1967, and 1968 National AAU Lightweight championship. He later was the 1968 Olympic Gold Medalist at 132 pounds.

[edit] Pro Career

Harris turned pro in 1971 was undefeated until 1978, but had a dull style. He was not a fan favorite, but was highly respected for his ring skills. In 1978 he took on WBC and WBA middleweight title holder Hugo Pastor Corro, but lost a decision. He retired in 1982.