(Heavyweight Champion welcomed with open arms)…The event was held Saturday.

A parade and rally was held in Imperial to honor the native son, Andy Ruiz Jr. A large turn-out was reported, though actual numbers were not available. During the rally at the Imperial High School Football Field Ruiz was presented the Medal of Merit from District 3 County Supervisor Mike Kelley. The Medal of Merit is the highest award offered by the County Board of Supervisors. It was approved at the Board meeting last week. Ruiz won the Heavyweight Championship June 1st at Madison Square Garden in New York. Not only did he when four heavyweight belts, but he became the first ever Heavyweight Champion of Mexican Descent. He will defend his championship sometime in December. Negotiations, according to Ruiz, are still underway.