Craddle of Boxing by Brenda Bonilla, Rafael SotoSonoran Institute of Culture
Pantheon of Champions
In Jalisco, Mexico City, Baja California, and Sinaloa, champions flourished, sheltered by the four supreme sanctioning bodies. However, it is in the sacred land of Sonora where passion merges with a collection of warriors. In the art of boxing, Sonora is the epicenter of glory.
Craddle of Boxing by Brenda Bonilla, Rafael SotoSonoran Institute of Culture
The 12 champions
Among this outstanding collection of warriors are 12 champions whose victories and iconic moments remind us why boxing is a great sport. Sonora, the land of golden gloves, has forged legends that shine brightly in the history of boxing.
Julio César Chávez (107-6-2, 86 KO)
Julio César Chávez, the great Mexican champion from Ciudad Obregón, shines in boxing history. His legacy transcends borders, alongside Roberto Durán. Three-time world champion, with unmatched records: 37 title fights, 29 defenses, and a streak of 87 victories.
Indomitable spirit
This Mexican legend transcended the limits of the ring, encapsulating the very soul of the Mexican boxer. Without hesitation or fear, they marched on with bravery and passion. Julio César and the warriors of Mexico share a defining romanticism. An eternal legend of boxing.
José Luis 'El Temible' ('The Fearsome') Castillo (66-13-1, 57 KO)
Born in Empalme, he was two-time world champion (WBC) at 135 lb. His epic battle with Diego Corrales became the Fight of the Decade in the 2000s, while his surprise victory over Stevie Johnston earned him the Upset of the Year 2000.
Orlando Salido by Brenda Bonilla, Rafael SotoSonoran Institute of Culture
Orlando 'Siri' Salido (44-13-4, 31 KO)
From Ciudad Obregón, the famous 'ship sinker' emerged in the twilight of his career, surprising the world by knocking out Juan Manuel López and snatching the 126 lb belt. His friendly style captivated fans, and he was the one who inflicted the first defeat on Vasyl Lomachenko.
Luis Ramón 'Yory Boy' Campas (106-17-3, 81 KO)
From Navojoa to the world, 'Yory Boy' shone on the world stage. As IBF super welterweight (154 lb) champion, he took the undefeated title from the one and only 'El Torito' ('Little Bull') Ayala Jr. He was also the first to knock down International Hall of Fame member Félix Trinidad of Puerto Rico.
Craddle of Boxing by Brenda Bonilla, Rafael SotoSonoran Institute of Culture
José Luis 'Zurdo' ('Lefty') Ramírez (102-9, 82 KO)
From Huatabampo, the legendary 'Zurdo' was a two-time world champion at 135 lb for the WBC. He ended the undefeated runs of Pernell Whitaker and Edwin Rosario, the latter by knockout. He managed to knock down the legendary Alexis Argüello, although he was overcome in their encounter.
Oscar Valdez by Brenda Bonilla, Rafael SotoSonoran Institute of Culture
Óscar Valdez (30-1, 23 KO) (Active)
The pride of Nogales, a two-time right guard champion, rose quickly in the world of sport and fame. His Olympic participation catapulted him to the top, gaining him recognition in both sports and the media.
Estrada by Brenda Bonilla, Rafael SotoSonoran Institute of Culture
Juan Francisco 'El Gallo' ('The Rooster') Estrada (44-3, 28 KO) (Active)
From the coasts of Puerto Peñasco came the legendary Estrada Romero, champion of the 112 lb and 115 lb divisions, who achieved the great challenge of unifying both belts from two organizations.
Worthy champion
He is known for his famous trilogy against future Hall of Famer Román 'Chocolatito' Gonzalez, where it could be said that he finally avenged his defeats, thereby securing his place among the best Aztec fighters in history.
Craddle of Boxing by Brenda Bonilla, Rafael SotoSonoran Institute of Culture
The champions of Sonora
While these are some of the greatest champions, others have carried the name of Sonora to the highest levels. Palomino, Márquez, Sánchez, Borboa, and Leyva stand out among them, leaving an indelible legacy in world boxing. Sonora shines with their talent and passion.
Juan Estrada by Brenda Bonilla, Rafael SotoSonoran Institute of Culture
Sonora, Cradle of Mexican Boxing
The champions of Mexico
This story was created with information and support from Instituto Sonorense de Cultura.
