Date of Birth: January 1, 1919
Zodiac Sign: Capricorn
Date of Death: May 22, 1990
Biography
Rocky Graziano, born Thomas Rocco Barbella, was an American professional boxer and middleweight champion. He was born on January 1, 1919, in New York City, New York. Graziano’s career spanned from 1942 to 1952, during which he became famous for his aggressive fighting style and powerful punches. He grew up in a tough neighborhood and had several run-ins with the law before turning to boxing as a route to a better life. Graziano’s most notable achievements in the ring included his epic trilogy of fights against Tony Zale, with whom he traded the middleweight title. Beyond the ring, Graziano dabbled in acting and television, notably appearing on game shows and in movies. He passed away on May 22, 1990, in New York City.
5 Interesting Facts about Rocky Graziano
1. Rocky Graziano legally changed his name from Thomas Rocco Barbella to Rocky Graziano.
2. He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1991.
3. Graziano served time in prison for deserting the U.S. Army during World War II.
4. He was portrayed by Paul Newman in the 1956 film “Somebody Up There Likes Me,” which was based on Graziano’s autobiography.
5. Graziano made several appearances on television shows, including “What’s My Line?” and “The Martha Raye Show.”
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Rocky Graziano
1. “I quit school in the sixth grade because of pneumonia. Not because I had it, but because I couldn’t spell it.”
2. “I was the best street fighter in my neighborhood, but I had to learn to box.”
3. “My life has been a series of screw-ups and comebacks.”
4. “I fought Sugar Ray so many times, it’s a wonder I don’t have diabetes.”
5. “Always get up, no matter how many times you get knocked down.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Rocky Graziano’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million, a substantial sum for his era.
Children
Rocky Graziano had two daughters with his wife, Norma Unger.
Relevant Links
2. [Rocky Graziano IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0336781/
3. [Biography.com – Rocky Graziano](https://www.biography.com/athlete/rocky-graziano
4. [BoxRec – Rocky Graziano](https://boxrec.com/en/proboxer/009035
5. [Rocky Graziano – Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Rocky-Graziano
