Macka Foley

Macka Foley, born Martin Macka A. Foley, Jr. on January 2, 1951, in Portland, Maine, was a multifaceted individual whose life journey was marked by resilience and passion. Growing up in the West End, he attended St. Dominics School before graduating from Portland High School in 1969, where he was celebrated as the wittiest student and captained the basketball team.

After high school, Macka enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, serving two tours during the Vietnam War and earning a Purple Heart for his bravery. Transitioning from military life, he pursued a career in boxing, competing as a heavyweight from 1969 to 1979, amassing an impressive 54 professional fights across the globe—save for Antarctica. His deep understanding of boxing history was remarkable, as he could recall every champion since the sport’s inception in America.

In 1986, Macka moved to Los Angeles, where he made a name for himself as a boxing trainer, mentoring renowned champions such as James Toney, Manny Pacquiao, and Brian Viloria. He also collaborated with various actors, including James Franco, who described him as a guiding force in both boxing and life. Macka's film credits included appearances in over 500 television shows and movies, with notable roles in "Ghost" (1990) and "Death House" (1988). A spiritual man, he valued meditation and was known for his humor and spontaneity. Macka Foley passed away unexpectedly on August 3, 2015, in Los Angeles, leaving behind a legacy in both sports and entertainment.