The history, heritage and heart – la historia, herencia y corazón – of Hispanic fighters is celebrated and showcased in the Premier Boxing Champions series. During Hispanic Heritage month (September 15-October 15), the PBC is proud to salute the many Hispanic boxers, trainers, coaches and staff working in its series.
From Mexican fighters like Leo Santa Cruz, Abner Mares, Sammy Vasquez, Omar Figueroa, Robert Guerrero, Josesito Lopez, Chris Arreola, cand Jose Lara, to Cuban fighters Erislandy Lara, Peter Quillin and Rances Barthelemy, Dominican fighters Javier Fortuna, Juan Carlos Payano and Edwin Rodriguez, Puerto Rico’s Carlos Velasquez, Puerto Rican/American Danny Garcia and more, PBC fighters have met fans, discussed their heritage and helped to share their many inspirational stories on their boxing journey during Hispanic Heritage month.
“As a Mexican-American, it is important for me to share my culture, my heritage and my dedication to this sport with my fans. Boxing is in my blood and it’s an important part of my culture. It’s exciting to be joining other Latino fighters in bringing the sport to more of our fans on free tv,”said Leo Santa Cruz, three division champion.
“As a fighter, we fight for all different reasons but something that connects us is our pride for where we come from and who we fight for. I’m proud to be of Puerto Rican descent and everything it means to be part of the Puerto Rican culture. It’s a blessing to be able to follow in the footsteps of great Puerto Rican fighters and share with the world how proud I am of my roots,” said Danny Garcia, undefeated champion.
“I fight for my fans and they know that I was born in Mexico, live in the United States but call both home. This month is important to me to show everyone the pride, heritage and story of our lives that make us who we are. From the music I listen to when I train, to the culture and traditions I celebrate, I’m proud to be Latino, proud to be Mexican and proud to be in the PBC,” said Abner Mares, three division champion.
“My journey to the U.S. represents hope, freedom and being a champion. Coming from Cuba, I have a great respect and love for this country, however my Cuban heritage and culture will always be with me. Latinos have contributed so much to the sport of boxing, and through the PBC, I’m proud and glad to be able to have it showcased on TV across the U.S. and Latin America for everyone to see and hopefully be inspired by,” said Erislandy Lara, current Super Welterweight champion.
“Hispanic Heritage month is a time when to show the great achievements that Latinos have accomplished worldwide,” said Robert Guerrero. “Our heritage shapes us and it is passed down from generation to generation; in boxing, our heritage, the pride and alma of the sport, represents just that – the commitment and science that has been taught and passed down. I’m proud to be Latino, I’m proud to be part of the history and new traditions of boxing. And most importantly I’m proud to be a Mexican Warrior,” said champion Robert Guerrero.
“It’s important for everyone to know their heritage, who they are, where they come from. As a Mexican American and a proud armed services veteran, I am my heritage and also the future. Culture brings us together and boxing is a way for me to continue the great story of Hispanic athletes,” said Sammy Vasquez, undefeated fighter.
“I was born in the U.S. to parents from Mexico. I am a proud Mexican American who wears both cultures and countries on his sleeve. My heritage – my parents, my grandparents and my loyal fans- are vital to me. It’s who supported me in my career in boxing, and helped teach and show me the dedication, hard work and knowledge that makes me the man I am today. I am proud to be able to fight on the PBC where people of all races, language and interests can watch me push the sport further,” said Heavyweight boxer Chris Arreola.
