Being a native Arizonan isn't mandatory for inclusion in the Arizona Sports Hall of Fame, but it makes the honor even sweeter.
Such was the case Friday night for former five-time boxing champion Michael Carbajal, who was born in Phoenix in 1967 and has lived his entire life in Arizona.
“This is probably the best Hall of Fame out of all of them I’ve been in because I’m from here,” Carbajal said. “It’s a really great feeling and with all the athletes that are involved, past and present, I’m with some big names. I’m very excited and happy.