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Nationals Park Is Top Notch; the Team Eventually Needs to Follow Suit

Mark Lerner, right, one of the Nationals' primary owners, shares in the excitement of Nationals Park opening, pointing out some of the highlights to Manager Manny Acta. (By Preston Keres -- The Washington Post)
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This week I read about the death of Art Aragon, 80, a lightweight and middleweight boxer who went by the nickname "Golden Boy" in the 1950s for wearing gold trunks and a gold robe. Aragon, who went 89-20-6 in his career before retiring in 1960, drew huge crowds when he boxed in Los Angeles arenas.

He only had one title fight, losing to Jimmy Carter (different guy) in 1951, but fans still remember Aragon's classic battles against Chuck Davey, Carmen Basilio, Billy Graham (different guy) and Chico Vejar.

The Los Angeles Times recounted Aragon's friendship with actress Mamie Van Doren and the late Marilyn Monroe.

In retirement, Aragon acted in films and, according to the New York Times, was a bail-bondsman with a business card that read: "I'll get you out if it takes 10 years."

"Boxing requires a lot more skill; it's a totally different discipline," said Bob Arum, veteran boxing promoter and boss at Top Rank Inc. "But Ultimate Fighting has done a good job of promoting their event to young white males who look like the fighters."

Have a comment or question? Reach me at talkback@washpost.com.

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