Mesa High grad and ASU icon Anthony Robles now focus of feature film
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One of the most inspirational sports journeys in Arizona history will be celebrated at the 2024 Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe, when Anthony Robles — an Arizonan and 2011 NCAA Wrestling Champion — serves as the parade grand marshal.
The 2-mile procession through central Phoenix begins 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 28.
The Mesa High School and Arizona State graduate joins a distinguished list of previous Fiesta Bowl Parade grand marshals, which honors individuals or groups whose inspiring accomplishments are worthy of celebration and align with the Fiesta Bowl’s commitment to enhancing the lives of Arizonans through the support of youth, sports and education.
“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. He is a great person to lead our Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe,” said Fiesta Sports Foundation Executive Director & CEO Erik Moses.
“By moving the Fiesta Bowl Parade into the heart of Bowl Season with a stronger tie-in to our postseason college football games, we expect even higher engagement from college football fans and all segments of our community.”
Born without his right leg, Mr. Robles began his career at Arizona State as a walk-on but overcame extreme obstacles to become a three-time All-American. He capped his Sun Devils career by winning the 2011 national championship in the 125-pound class, defeating the defending champion in the final match.
Mr. Robles is an inductee in the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, Arizona Hall of Fame and ASU Sports Hall of Fame.
“To be the Grand Marshal in my own state is an honor. It’s where I grew up, I went to Mesa High School; Arizona is home for me. To represent Arizona and all the good things that are here, it’s very special,” Mr. Robles said. “I’m really proud to be a part of this and part of the Fiesta Bowl because of all that they stand for and what they do in the community.”
Mesa High grad and ASU icon Anthony Robles now focus of feature film
Mr. Robles’ incredible story is featured in the new film “Unstoppable” by Amazon MGM Studios.
The film stars Jennifer Lopez as Mr. Robles’ mother, Jharrel Jerome as Anthony and Don Cheadle as ASU Head Coach Shawn Charles and was produced by Matt Damon and Ben Affleck. Mr. Robles was highly involved in the film as a producer and served as his own stunt double in the movie’s wrestling scenes.
The limited theatrical release is slated for Dec. 6, and will be released on Prime Video Jan. 16, 2025.
Mr. Robles joins a list of previous Fiesta Bowl Parade grand marshals including Charles Barkley, Jerry Colangelo, Alice Cooper, Richard Jefferson, Randy Johnson, Al McCoy, Jake Plummer, Kerri Strug and Diana Taurasi.
The Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe is broadcast live on Arizona’s Family 3TV and available to stream on its digital platform on Saturday, Dec. 28.
“Having experienced Anthony’s magnetic personality and touching story in person, I can’t wait for fans lining the streets to witness one of Arizona’s greatest success stories at the Vrbo Fiesta Bowl Parade presented by Lerner & Rowe,” said Fiesta Sports Foundation Board Chair Judy Bernas. “The Fiesta Bowl Parade is such a celebration, where a variety of entry units come together and showcase all the best that Arizona has to offer for our live audience and those who watch on television.”
