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Wrestling legend Anthony Robles is this year's Fiesta Bowl Parade grand marshal

Anthony Robles competes in the NCAA Championship
Courtesy of Sun Devil Athletics
/
Anthony Robles competes in the NCAA Championship at Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on March 19, 2011.

Local and national wrestling legend Anthony Robles will soon claim another title – grand marshal for Saturday’s Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade in Phoenix.

The honor comes at an exciting time for the former Mesa High School and Arizona State University star. A movie, titled “Unstoppable,” about how Robles – born with one leg - became a championship wrestler recently premiered.

His 2-year old son will celebrate his birthday leading the parade with dad.

“We’re practicing our waves together and honestly, I think my son’s wave is better than mine, I think he’ll get more reactions than me with his cute little face,” Robles said. “But to be able to share that memory with my family, that is just an honor and a true blessing for me. I’ll never forget that moment.”

In a press release, Erik Moses, executive director and CEO for Fiesta Sports Foundation said, "Anthony Robles has lived his life in a way we all aspire to – with perseverance, humility, determination, honor and courage. His journey is an inspiration to us all and a testament to the indomitable human spirit.”

Robles joins a list of previous Fiesta Bowl Parade grand marshals that include Charles Barkley, Alice Cooper and Diana Taurasi, among others.

According to the Fiesta Sports Foundation, grand marshals align with “the Fiesta Bowl's commitment to enhancing the lives of Arizonans through the support of youth, sports and education.”

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As a senior field correspondent, Christina Estes focuses on stories that impact our economy, your wallet and public policy.