But in the late 20th century, the sport faded in Utah. A state tax imposed on professional boxing took its toll. Promoters decided to take their business elsewhere — most notably Las Vegas. Tom Steinke, who was on the State Athletic Commission in the 1970s and '80s, was charged with collecting fees as soon as the fights were done.

"The promoters got scared off with the tax," said Steinke. "We didn't draw after that."

In Steinke's estimation, the move also chilled amateur boxing. No pro fights on Saturday night meant less interest among the kids. People started finding other things to do. With the '90s came the rise of pro wrestling and the advent of mixed martial arts.

Suddenly, boxing everywhere was as dated as the telegraph.

The days of local stars like Cookie Valencia, Tony Pulu, Jeff Shelburg, Steamboat Young and Javier Flores were gone.

"Those guys faded out; there was no local flavor to speak of professionally," said Steinke.

On the upbeat side, three Utah amateurs — Alex Canez, Isaac Aguilar and Jose Haro — competed this week in the nationals. But whether the sport can return to its glory years is debatable. It has been weakened by decades of scandal and infighting among the numerous world boxing organizations, thinned by competition from other sports. Even with films like "Million Dollar Baby" and "Cinderella Man" becoming big hits, you wonder: Can boxing make a comeback?

"That's a tough question," said Steinke. "I think it depends on the youth — how many kids are in the ranks and can gain a following."

Considering Utah's pugilistic history, this seems as good a place as any to start.

E-mail: rock@desnews.com