Antonio Cruz and Felix Vargas were both 17. They were so close in their friendship they felt like brothers. They both had a dream – becoming the light weight champion of the world.
They exercised sometimes at the Boys’ Club and sometimes at the gym. After a series of elimination bouts, they were told they were to meet each other in the division finals. The day was fixed for 7 August. They both wanted to win. They talk about it. Then Felix makes a suggestion that they will not see each other until the day of the fight. After the fight they will get together again as if nothing happened. They continue training hard.
The fight is to take place at Tompkins Square Park for the Division Finals.
Felix Vargas and Antonio Cruz are ready. The announcer makes the announcement. There will be no draw. The referee blows the whistle and the fight is on.
In the first and second round Antonio Cruz and Felix Vargas do their best to outwit the other. But both are equally strong. Punches y back and forth, but none is floored. Each punch is thunderously applauded by the crowd.
Now comes the third round. Each contestant wants to win. They punch each other very hard. Nobody falls to the canvas. The final bell rings. But the fight continues. The bdUngs again and again. But there is no stopping to the fighting. People start getting worried. It looks as if they are witnessing a do or die fight and not a contest. There is utter silence. Then the referee and the trainer separate the two contestants.
Now the contestants embrace. They have forgotten that they were fighting like bulls until a moment ago. The announcer makes an announcement. He is trying to name the winner and he looks around. But both Antonio and Felix had left the scene like good old friends, arm in arm, declaring their strong bond of friendship.
This is the spirit of love! Cooperation in Competition!
