Willie Pastrano

Willie Pastrano was born in Miami, Florida, but raised in the New Orlean's FrenchQuarter. A local shoe-shine boy, Pastrano took up boxing because he was "The fattest 15 year old in town". With no amateur experience, he turned pro in 1951. He racked up an impressive 58-11 record before winning the World Lightheavyweight Boxing Championship from Harold Johnson on Jun.1, 1963. Pastrano retired from boxing in 1965 following his title loss to Jose Torres. He became a spokesperson for a local South Florida milk company and than went into the movies at the urging of his friend singer Steve Alaimo.