I ran into Gator here and there. He had the rock star mindset which made him worth avoiding. To watch him skate was fine, it's just when he got off the board he showed his true colors. Gator's contribution to the sport/industry should never be ignored or belittled.. There were several pros that saw themselves as godly and they crashed and faded rapidly (where are they now file). Gator became a victim of his fame and attitude. He was a superior skater. He also murdered someone. You can use his crimes to justify denying him as a skater but skating today was influenced positively by him. Respect what he did not who he is.

It will be interesting on how many turn their back. on his release. Although not on the same level, M.Jackson is still glorified for all his contributions even though the guy was obviously guilty of his crimes. I will be interesting to see how many don't turn their back- even if over curiosity. I have to admit if I heard he was at my park right now I'd probably watch him for hours. At the end of the session, however, I'd probably spit in his face and kick him in the balls.