Plaque for Mario D'Agata Approved by Culture and Sport Commission
The Culture and Sport Commission, led by Fabio Giorgetti, has given approval to a motion submitted by both President Giorgetti and Mirco Rufilli, who serves as president of the Place-Naming Commission and councilor for promoting Florentine heritage. The motion honors Mario D'Agata, the world boxing champion and only the second Italian to claim this title after Primo Carnera. D'Agata made Florence his home from 1956 until his death on April 4, 2009.
"Mario D'Agata became a true Florentine by choice and perfectly embodied the spirit of our city. Despite his hearing impairment, he challenged the prejudices and limitations society placed on people with disabilities during that era, pursuing his dream to become a professional boxer. His determination paid off," explains Mirco Rufilli, president of the Place-Naming Commission and councilor for celebrating Florentine identity. "He became Italy's second world champion after Primo Carnera. It's crucial to commemorate him and promote the values that sports always manages to convey. Several councilors, along with President Fabio Giorgetti, have suggested organizing a youth boxing tournament in his name. I thank President Giorgetti for supporting this motion, all councilors for their unanimous vote, and those who chose to co-sign the proposal."
"We must remember Mario D'Agata as an outstanding example of determination and sacrifice, achieved despite a significant hearing deficit. Highlighting positive examples from the world of sports is important," adds Fabio Giorgetti, president of the Culture and Sport Commission. "These examples teach younger generations the right mindset for facing life."
Born in Arezzo on May 29, 1926, Mario D'Agata lived with a hearing impairment. His passion for boxing led him to turn professional in 1950. Initially, the federation rejected his application after determining that D'Agata could not hear the bell signaling the start and end of rounds. However, through sheer determination, he obtained his license in 1952, becoming the first deaf boxer to compete at professional levels. Mario D'Agata became Italian bantamweight champion in 1953, subsequently claiming both European and world bantamweight championship titles.
The motion calls on the mayor and administration to place a commemorative plaque at D'Agata's former residence and to promote initiatives through sports federations that foster integration and create connections between deaf and hearing individuals.
Source: comune.fi.it
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