Mike Ayala


Mike Ayala is a retired American professional boxer in the Featherweight division. Ayala is the former NABF Super Bantamweight and NABF Featherweight Champion.

Early life

Mike is the brother of former boxers Sammy, Paulie, Tony Jr. and the son of trainer Tony Ayala, Sr.

Amateur career

In 1973 Ayala won the National Golden Gloves Flyweight Championship and then won the 1974 National AAU Bantamweight Championship.

Professional career

Championship bouts

On June 17, 1979 Ayala lost to WBC Featherweight Champion, Danny Lopez by KO in the 15th rd. This bout was Ring Magazine's Fight of the Year for 1979. On April 19, 1985 Ayala faced Juan Meza for the WBC super bantamweight title losing by TKO in round 6. In his final title attempt Ayala challenged WBA jr featherweight champion Louie Espinoza losing by KO in the 9th rd.

Personal

Shortly after his father Tony Ayala Sr.'s death, Ayala's teen son was diagnosed with cancer.
Ayala works as an air conditioner and heating repairman in San Antonio and he owns a local company, Mike Ayala Air Conditioning.