Member-only story

The Black Matador: Sugar Odie Hawkins

Roald Dahl

·8.8k Followers· Follow

Published in The Black Matador Sugar Odie Hawkins

4 min read · 1 week before

36 View Claps

4 Respond

Save

Listen

Sugar Odie Hawkins was one of the most famous bullfighters in the world. This book tells his story, from his humble beginnings in Texas to his triumphs in the bullring.

The Black Matador, "Sugar"

by Odie Hawkins

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	671 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	280 pages

Early Life

Sugar Odie Hawkins was born in 1939 in Waco, Texas. He was the son of a sharecropper and a domestic worker. Hawkins grew up in poverty, but he was always a determined and ambitious young man.

Hawkins started boxing at a young age. He was a natural athlete, and he quickly became one of the best boxers in his weight class. In 1959, Hawkins won the Golden Gloves championship. This victory earned him a spot on the U.S. Olympic boxing team.

Hawkins competed in the 1960 Olympics in Rome. He won a bronze medal, and he was hailed as a hero upon his return to the United States.

Bullfighting Career

After the Olympics, Hawkins decided to pursue a career in bullfighting. He moved to Mexico City and began training under the legendary matador Luis Procuna.

Hawkins quickly became one of the most successful bullfighters in Mexico. He was known for his fearless style and his ability to kill bulls with a single sword thrust.

In 1965, Hawkins made his debut in Spain. He was the first black matador to fight in Spain, and his success there helped to break down racial barriers in the sport.

Hawkins continued to fight in Spain for several years. He became a national hero in Mexico, and he was one of the most famous bullfighters in the world.

Later Life

Hawkins retired from bullfighting in 1974. He returned to the United States and worked as a boxing promoter. He also became involved in politics, and he was elected to the Texas House of Representatives in 1982.

Hawkins died in 2005 at the age of 66. He was one of the most successful and influential bullfighters in history, and his story is an inspiration to people all over the world.

Legacy

Sugar Odie Hawkins was a true pioneer. He was the first black matador to fight in Spain, and his success helped to break down racial barriers in the sport.

Hawkins was also a great athlete and a gifted swordsman. He was one of the most successful bullfighters in history, and he is still remembered as one of the greatest matadors of all time.

The Black Matador is a fascinating and inspiring story about a remarkable man. It is a must-read for anyone interested in bullfighting, boxing, or African-American history.

The Black Matador, "Sugar"

by Odie Hawkins

5 out of 5