we stayed in touch, then gradually, over time, it became harder. You get busy with life and such, and you don't always make the time to keep in touch with people. The phone calls become shorter and farther apart......


The last time I saw Alex was 2 years ago. I was fighting here in L.A. on one of the "Warriors Cup" shows. I lost a decision to Duane Ludwig, and of course theres no shame in losing, especially to a guy as talented and nice as Duane. Nonetheless, I was feeling a bit down. Who do I see? Alex Gong. He comes over gives me a hug, and tells me it was good to see me, told me how he was cheering for me, asked about work-all the things you ask a friend about.

We chatted for a bit, then Alex said he had to run. His flight was boarding in just a few minutes-but he had wanted to stay and see me fight, and talk to me afterwards. As he was leaving he asked me something-basically it was an old inside joke we and a few others had shared years before in Arizona. We laughed a bit, and that was the last time I saw him face to face.

We talked a few more times since then, and every now and then, I'd have someone show up at my school and tell me that Alex had recommended them to me, which I always felt especially good about, not only that he thought enough of me, skill wise, to send people my way, but that I was still being thought of.