MERCANTE, JR., ARTHUR SIGNED INDEX CARD (BECKETT)

HISTORY: Arthur Mercante Jr.’s dream wasn’t originally to be a referee. With aspirations of being a successful pugilist, Mercante took part in the New York Golden Gloves, losing a close decision to future featherweight champion Juan LaPorte.  “I felt I beat him in the Golden Gloves,” says Mercante, but when he expressed his aspirations of turning pro to his father, Mercante Sr. told him, “You will not as long as you live under my roof. How about becoming a referee?” Mercante Jr made one more run at the Golden Gloves in 1979, but shortly following he became an amateur referee between the years of 1979 and 1984. When his father suggested he was ready to turn professional, Mercante Jr. took his advice and transitioned to the pro realm in 1984. A 39 year career has followed with its share of highlights, but throughout Mercante Jr. states that his favorite thing about the job is being compassionate to the fighters. “We’re there to be protective and the safety of the fighter is the most important thing,” says Mercante Jr, who has been criticized on both sides of the fence on this issue. After many thought he stepped in too late to stop the Pernell Whitaker vs Diosbelys Hurtado fight in 1997, as well as Scottland vs George Jones, Mercante came under fire for stopping Demetrius Andrade’s title defense against Artur Akavov too early, a decision hotly disputed by Akavov, promoter Lou Dibella, and countless social media outlets.

Offered here is an original signed index card by Arthur Mercante, Jr. Authenticated by Beckett.

FULL DESCRIPTION: This is a signed index card by Arthur Mercante, Jr. Boldly signed in black sharpie. Not creased or torn. Clean front and back. 3" x 5." Authenticated and encapsulated by Beckett with their cert # 0013184194.