he was a big left hook artist who racked up a series of victories which led to his title challenge against Gene Fullmer.
It was recalled that one Rocky Kalingo knocked out Fernandez in one round in Caracas and then let the Cuban have a return fight in Havana.
Fernandez came back the following year to knock out undefeated, future world light-heavyweight champion José Torres in five rounds on May 26, 1963.
He blamed his numerous knockout defeats on personal problems associated with the political situation in his native country of Cuba.
Fernandez shocked the boxing world by scoring upset knockouts over Florida Middleweight Champion Jimmy Williams and highly regarded Jerry Evans.