Former California Bantamweight Boxing Champion Norman “Bumpy” Parra joined some elite company October 20 when he was inducted into the California Boxing Hall of Fame. The long time South Bay resident was inducted at a Studio City ceremony along with 16 other boxers, promoters, trainers and managers that have made their mark on the sport.
Parra, originally from San Ysidro, was active in the ring from 1962 until 1968, but has continued in boxing in various capacities over the years. Since his retirement from the ring, Parra has helped to establish boxing clubs in San Ysidro, Chula Vista, Logan Heights, Escondido and National City.

Focusing primarily on disadvantaged Hispanic kids, Parra helped to provide them with a better alternative than gang life. With the help of the Chicano Federation, Parra organized boxing tournaments that allowed his fighters to benefit from tough competition. He trained dozens of boxers over the years and continues in that capacity today. He is involved currently as trainer to Mercito “No Mercy” Gesta, an undefeated light welterweight (26-0-1) that hails from the Philippines, but trains in San Diego.