| Olympic medal record | ||
|---|---|---|
| Men's boxing | ||
| Competitor for the United States | ||
| 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.
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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 religiously 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.
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.
Harris turned pro in 1971 and was undefeated until 1978. In 1978 he took on WBC and WBA middleweight title holder Hugo Pastor Corro, but lost a decision. He retired in 1982.
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