ROCKY MARCIANO is the only undefeated champion in any weight class in the history of gloved boxing. Considering how many champions there have been, somewhat over 300, that is quite a feat in itself. But he also brought to boxing the kind of dignity and courage that makes us admire the truly great athletes.

"What would be better than walking down any street in any city and knowing you're a champion?" he once asked.

"Rocky Marciano stood out like a rose in a garbage dump. "Jimmy Cannon said of The Rock's character in a sport that all too often is tainted by corruption and greed.

Jersey Joe Walcott, who lost his title to Marciano, said "He was a man of courage inside the ring. Outside, he was kind and gentle."

"When I was 14 years old and listening to the radio and I heard the announcer, '…and still champion of the whole world, Rocky Marciano….' I knew I wanted to be champion someday.
He was a big influence in the start of my career"- Muhammad Ali