Buffalo Bills Mafia superfan, Pancho Billa didn t live long enough to see his team make the AFC Championships.
But on Sunday, his son was there to carry on his legacy leading a crowd of Bills fans in a cheer.
Gino Castro, the 8-year-old son of the late Ezra Castro, brought his dad s same energy as the next-generation Panchito Billa.
Wearing the mask his father made famous, Gino seemed to possess the same ability to rally fans together.
Enter your number to get our free mobile app There is the ongoing phenomenon of the Pancho story, the way a little kid in the 1980s in El Paso – challenged by his dad to choose a favorite team – looked around the NFL and picked the Bills, because their colors most closely matched the Mexican flag.
Bills fans continue the legacy of Pancho Billa, donating more than $9,000 to The Teacher s Desk
Pancho Billa, also known as Ezra Castro, was an inspiration to not only people in WNY but also beyond. Bills fans donated to a cause Pancho cared deeply about. Author: Jeff Preval Updated: 7:11 PM EST January 25, 2021
BUFFALO, N.Y. Here is a story of how Buffalo Bills fans are continuing the legacy of Bills super fan Pancho Billa, who s real name was Ezra Castro. Pancho remains an inspiration to not just fans, but to a lot of people beyond Western New York.
His passion for the Bills, even as he battled cancer was remarkable.
Bills Mafia takes over drive-in theater for AFC Championship game (photos)
Updated Jan 25, 2021;
Facebook Share
Yes, together.
Since September, the Transit Drive-In has been offering free sports entertainment. Sunday’s game was shown on three screens with enough room for vehicles to spread out, Covid-style.
A video tribute to Pancho Billa played as fans got ready to watch the AFC Championship game between the Bills and Chiefs at the Transit Drive-In in Lockport, NY on Jan. 24, 2021. Karen Gioia | Special to NYup.com
The game was dedicated to superfan Ezra Castro, better known as Pancho Billa, who died from cancer in 2019 at the age of 39. Donations in the amount of $39 per vehicle were collected for The Teacher’s Desk, a Western NY charity that provides free school supplies. One of Castro’s last wishes was to provide backpacks and supplies to kids in need.
After hosting Bills fans Saturday night who apparently didn't learn about how to clean up after themselves the Transit Drive-In has announced they will allow fans back for this Sunday's game. But, this time, it'll cost ya.
Odds of Buffalo Bills Winning the Super Bowl Are Out
At the beginning of the 2020-2021 season and even throughout, the Kansas City Chiefs were looking like the favorites for the Super Bowl coming on February 7.
After the divisional round against the Cleveland Browns, no doubt the game was interesting, and, with Mahomes out, there was a glimpse of hope for the Browns. The odds have shifted in favor of Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers. If you are a betting guy or gal here are the odds for the next couple of weeks:
CURRENT AS JANUARY 19:
Tampa Bay +163