Edgar Santana is a 25 year old junior welterweight boxer who was born in Puerto Rico and raised in El Barrio. Though he hasn't fought in a championship match yet, he is respected by fellow boxers and his community and is regarded as the next Puerto Rican boxing legend.

Interviewer:  How do you feel about being a hero of this working-class neighborhood?

Santana: It’s good to see people supporting you, seeing fights. 

I:  How are you a role model in El Barrio?

S: A lot of young kids look up to me so I try to do something positive.  I want to build a gym, give young kids in this community an opportunity to do what I do and keep them off the streets. 

I:  How do you see yourself in comparison to other Puerto Rican boxing legends?

S: I could compare myself to a couple of Puerto Rican champions.  I was born in Puerto Rico, but I was raised here in New York.  the love that I get in Puerto Rico is different than the love that I get here.  I represent Puerto Ricans in New York. 

I:  Was it difficult making it in professional sports as a Puerto Rican athelete?

S: It was hard at first.  I didn’t know English when I came here.  It hasn’t been a problem, though.  Its hard for any Hispanic or Black person.  You have to hope.  I definitely hope to go all the way, make some money, and do some positive things. 

I:  How have things changed for you since you’ve gotten more famous?

S: I get a lot more attention walking down the street, but I’m still the same person.  No matter what, I’m going to be working for the community. 

Boxer Edgar Santana, Photo by Anthony J. Causi, New York Post