MERCANTE, JR., ARTHUR SIGNED INDEX CARD (BECKETT)

HISTORY: Arthur Mercante Jr.’s dream wasn’t originally to be a referee. With aspirations of being a successful pugilist, Mercante took part in the New York Golden Gloves, losing a close decision to future featherweight champion Juan LaPorte.  “I felt I beat him in the Golden Gloves,” says Mercante, but when he expressed his aspirations of turning pro to his father, Mercante Sr. told him, “You will not as long as you live under my roof. How about becoming a referee?” Mercante Jr made one more run at the Golden Gloves in 1979, but shortly following he became an amateur referee between the years of 1979 and 1984. When his father suggested he was ready to turn professional, Mercante Jr. took his advice and transitioned to the pro realm in 1984. A 39 year career has followed with its share of highlights, but throughout Mercante Jr. states that his favorite thing about the job is being compassionate to the fighters. “We’re there to be protective and the safety of the fighter is the most impo