Maurice Watkins, nicknamed "Termite", was born on August 29, 1956, in Texas. He was raised in a family that was involved in the insect fumigation business, which is where he got his unique nickname. Growing up, Maurice was always surrounded by the world of boxing, as his family had a passion for the sport. It was no surprise when Maurice decided to follow in their footsteps and pursue a career as a professional boxer.
Maurice had his first professional fight on May 21, 1974, where he knocked out his opponent, Cesar Cortez, in the first round. This victory marked the beginning of Maurice's successful boxing career. He went on to compete in the Lightweight and Welterweight divisions, facing off against some of the toughest opponents in the ring.
One of the most memorable moments of Maurice's career was when he fought Saoul Mamby on February 10, 1980. Despite putting up a valiant effort, Maurice lost to Mamby via unanimous decision. This defeat was a tough pill to swallow, but Maurice remained determined to continue chasing his dreams in the boxing world.
After retiring from professional boxing, Maurice transitioned into coaching and became the coach of the Iraqi national boxing team. His years of experience in the ring made him a valuable asset to the team, as he was able to impart his knowledge and skills onto the aspiring boxers under his guidance. Maurice's dedication to his role as a coach earned him the respect and admiration of his team members.
One of Maurice's lasting contributions to the sport of boxing was the phrase he coined, "Iraq! Iraq! Iraq is back!". This rallying cry became a symbol of hope and unity for the people of Iraq, who embraced it wholeheartedly. The phrase became so popular that thousands of T-shirts were made with it printed on them, solidifying Maurice's place in the hearts of the Iraqi people.
Throughout his career, Maurice Watkins proved himself to be a formidable force in the boxing world. His talent, determination, and passion for the sport set him apart as a true champion. Maurice's legacy continues to inspire aspiring boxers and fans alike, reminding them that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.