13 Facts About Mario D'Agata

Mario D'Agata was an Italian professional boxer, who was the first, and so far only, deaf world champion in boxing.

Mario D'Agata was a lineal, European, and Italian bantamweight champion.

Mario D'Agata had a tough childhood as a consequence of his disabilities, the victim of taunting from fellow school children.

Mario D'Agata's parents moved him from Tuscany to Rome at an early age, hoping to find doctors who would cure him.

On 14 October 1950, Mario D'Agata turned professional, defeating Giuseppe Saladari by a decision in six rounds.

Mario D'Agata then returned to Italy, where he was no longer recognized as champion.

On 29 June 1956, Mario D'Agata finally received his world title opportunity, when former conqueror Cohen gave him a chance to win the world bantamweight title in Rome.

Mario D'Agata made his dream come true by knocking Cohen out in six rounds in front of 38,000 fans, many of whom rushed to the ring the moment the fight was over, carrying Mario D'Agata out of the ring on their arms.

Mario D'Agata went to Paris to defend his title for the first time, on 1 April 1957, against local challenger Alphonse Halimi.

Lightning struck one of the special lights in round three, and Mario D'Agata was struck by sparkles, suffering a burned neck and back.

Mario D'Agata then fought on with mixed success, until 1 August 1962, when he announced his retirement.

Mario D'Agata was able to stay away from boxing for the rest of his life.

Mario D'Agata became an example to many in his native Italy, where some boxing fans still regard him as a hero.