By Ted Sares – I don’t even have the words to describe how sick I feel about this. “Pancho” was my friend, and he just passed away at approximately 9PM Central time tonight. Pancho was one of the nicest, classiest, well mannered guys that you could ever meet. Pancho left this earth and is now with God in heaven. He will be missed. Please keep the Moncivais family in your prayers. –Posted by Brad Cooney
This is a shock to us all…We’re not talking about a mismatched bout. He was a ranked amateur with a national title. –Mississippi Boxing Commissioner Jon Lewis..
I’ve been asking officials and employees did they let it go too long. The feedback is that [referee Fred Steinwinder] did a good job. This is one of those cases where the blow killed the guy. — Lewis
This young and gifted heavyweight (1-1) died due to injuries suffered in a weekend bout in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. He was taken to the Hancock Medical Center after engaging in an all-out war with Bobby O’Bannon (6-2) of Mobile, Alabama, but sadly left us shortly after.
O’Bannon and Pancho fought the best bout out of a two-night venue putting each other down in a back-and-forth slugfest. In fact, Moncivais had O’Bannon down three times, but became exhausted and got caught with a lethal two-punch combo in the fourth and final round that sent him into the ropes where he fell in an awkward manner. At the time, he was winning on the cards. After not moving for a couple of minutes, it was clear he was seriously hurt. His last words were, ‘’man he can hit.” Seconds later he was unconscious…and then he was gone.
The kid was a Golden Gloves champion from Laurel, had never been down before, and loved to fight. He had the heart of a lion.
Thoughts and prayers go out to Bobby O’Bannon as well, as he now must deal with this tragedy. Indeed, he may never get back in the ring.
Another terrible and tragic story in a month ( July-2009) that has been filled with far too many of them.
Rest in peace, Pancho.
Postscript: A memorial fund to benefit Moncivais’ family has been established. Donations can be mailed to:
Mississippi Athletic Commission
“Pancho Memorial Fund”
P.O. Box 720820
Byram, MS 39272