Jose Ramirez a champion inside the ring, and out

When Saturday July, 9th comes along, and champion Jose Ramirez (17-0, 12 KOs) defends his World Boxing Council Continental Americas title against the Dominican Republics Tomas Mendez (27-7, 14 KOs) a couple thousand spectators will witness a fighter transforming to greatness live at Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino Resort in Lemoore, CA.  Many more will watch on TV (UniMas), as this fight is part of Top Rank Boxing "Solo Boxeo" showcase.  This showcase promotes young promising fighters, such as Ramirez from Top Rank before they start their PPV careers. 
​So now back to the champion inside and out! Ramirez is and will forever be a champion, not only in his hometown of Avenal, CA.  But throughout the whole San Joaquin Valley.  Ramirez's promoter and manager Rick Mirigian mentioned that this unique set of circumstances where Ramirez fights in the Valley will soon come to an end, but that won't happen for at least a couple years or so.  So your chances of witnessing something rare, and special are coming to an end.  Everyone knows about the fighter, the pride of the Valley, the hometown kid, and so on.  But, not everyone knows the other side of Ramirez that makes him a champion with or without a belt.  For example Ramirez has a scholarship foundation at Fresno State University, helping out the many migrate students up and down the Valley.  "For me it's in honor to help the students.  For me, being the first in my family to attend a four year university.  I know how much an education means." Ramirez said.  "I just want to motivate all the kids to continue their education after high school.  I want to be able to provide that help they need to get that done.  Once you get that degree nobody can take that away from you."  Jose Ramirez.
​During Tomorrow nights title defense, Ramirez will also donate three dollars per ticket sold (sold out) to the city of Avenal.  This is quite remarkable, and something that doesn't get too much publicity.  Ramirez does not reside in Avenal anymore, as he lives in southern California to be closer to Trainer Freddie Roach, but his roots are still all over the small agriculture town.  "Growing up in a small town in Avenal, I grew up in Avenal, raised in Avenal, less than 10,000 people live there.  It was tough as a kid from a financial part mostly."  Jose Ramirez.  These are just a couple things that Ramirez is involved in.  Yes, Ramirez is the reigning WBC Continental Americas Champion,  but he will forever be a champion  in the eyes of the whole Central San Joaquin Valley with or without a belt.    ​

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