Jesse James Leija - 2X World Boxing Champion (WBC 1994 / IBA 1998) [Episode #500]
Jesse James Leija
Take a walk with me down Fascination Street as I get to know San Antonio's very own Jesse James Leija. Jesse is a 2-time world champion boxer; having won the WBC belt in 1994 and the IBA belt in 1998. In this episode, we chat about growing up in San Antonio, and the series of events that led him to become a fighter. We also dive into a couple of his fights; especially his 4-fight series against Azuma Nelson. The Champ explains the difference between being a 'tough' fighter, and a 'smart' fighter, and then we jump into why his father was his trainer for Jesse's entire career. Along the way, Jesse James shares stories of hanging out with Sylvester Stallone, and even how he managed to sneak his way into a meeting with Muhammad Ali himself! I ask him about some of his other fights with Sugar Shane Mosely, Louie Espinoza, Arturo Gatti, and Oscar De La Hoya; before we trade opinions on the new spectacle of "boxing" involving Jake Paul, and what that is doing to the sport of boxing. Jesse James Leija is an advocate for mental health, started The Miracle League of San Antonio, owns Leija Boxing and Fitness gym, has the longest running charity golf tournament in San Antonio, and even started his own charitable foundation called The Leija Family Foundation. We touch on ALL of these things and more! Jesse James Leija has been a fixture in the city and is a name I have known for as far back as I can remember. It was an honor to speak with such a fantastic steward of my hometown. THIS IS EPISODE #500! THANK YOU, STREETWALKERS!!
