![](https://wbcboxing.com/wp-content/uploads/Paulie_ayala.jpg)
A so special night in Fort Worth, especially for a group who have Parkinson’s Disease, as it was the return of the Punching Out Parkinson’s Fight Night after a two-year layoff due to Covid-19.
This event benefits the non-profit POP program at the University of Hard Knocks Gym in Fort Worth Texas, owned and run by Paulie Ayala, former NABF champion and WBA world champion. Paulie first won the NABF Bantamweight title in 1995, then defended and kept that title for several years. In 1998, he moved up to a World Title fight, losing a close decision in Japan for the WBC Bantam title. A WBA title came in 1999 with a unanimous decision over Johnny Tapia.
His POP program began 12 years ago when a woman came to the gym at the suggestion of her neurologist. He told her there were studies that showed a boxing workout was good for coordination, strength and balance. Paulie learned about a program in Indiana, then attended a seminar. He wanted to help this lady. But then she asked if a few more of her friends could come to the gym, and Paulie immediatly agreed. Before Covid-19, there were about 80 people working out with this program at University of Hard Knocks Gym; now the number is back to about 60. Even during the pandemic, they conducted virtual classes! Paulie and his wife, Leti, make it fun with changing the music, varying up the routines, and a total hands-on approach.
At the Fight Night, Paulie was awarded with the WBC Heroes of Humanity Award. His dedication to this program has led him from not only being a champion in the ring, but now a hero in his community! A packed house gave him a standing ovation!
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