Career
Before losing, Lira had knocked Espana down to the canvas, but was unable to finish him. Lira boxed professionally from 1976 to 1984, compiling a record of 29 wins, 6 losses, and 1 draw, with 16 knockouts. Lira retired at age 34 after a ten round decision loss to Russell Mitchell in Illinois in 1984.
Lira later underwent liver transplant surgery to save his life.
Appearing in relatively good health for many years after "the fight of his life", Lira taught amateur boxing to children at the Union League Boys and Girls Club, and made public appearances at boxing cards in the Chicago area. Lira died of liver disease at age 61 in his native Chicago, Illinois, on Saturday, December 8, 2012.
