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Joe Czak (born April 9, 1956) is a retired Mexican professional boxer, who competed during the 1980s until the late 90’s. He competed in the Heavyweight Division and was nicknamed "The Mexican Whirlwind". He is a playable character in Rocky (video game) & Rocky Legends

Professional Career[]

Making his professional debut in 1978 with the first-round TKO victory over Jose Nunez in Mexico, Czak quickly gained prominence, compiling a 20-0 winning streak. His first serious victory came in July 1, 1979, as he knocked out the world’s No. 4-ranked contender, Salvador Hernandez in Las Vegas. This gave him enough momentum to challenge the world champion, Rocky Balboa soon after. But he wasn’t able to capture the title. He continued to compete in the Heavyweight Division for several years, getting yet another crack at the title, or so to say. Participating in the title contender tournament, he has his first fight on the bracket in 1987, challenging Balboa’s own student, Tommy Gunn. Yet again, he comes up short, getting knocked out in round 2.

He would continue to fight occasionally with mixed success, compiling a record of 5-4-1 in his last 10 fights. His last fight took place on January 4th, 1999, as he lost by 4-round split decision in his hometown against Juan Manuel Melendez. He will hang up his gloves for good soon after.

With his pro career never fully reaching any heights, Czak is perhaps best known for being one of Rocky Balboa’s title defences in the early 80’s, as well as one of the first victims of Tommy Gunn, who would later go on to become the World Heavyweight Champion. Around 1987 (Rocky V), Gunn fought and KO'd Czak in the 2nd round.[1] Unfortunately for Czak, he fell victim to Gunn's brutal left hook. Czak would be the first of many fighters to experience that hook. 

During his prime, Czak was described as a hard-hitting brawler with an unorthodox fight style. He used short punches to great effect and had a solid chin. Czak was well respected by fight fans due to his ability to go the distance with all the ranked contenders.[2] 

Trivia[]

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