FOURTH PRESENTATION OF “GLORIES OF THE PAST AND PRESENT” AWARDS

The “Past and Present Boxing Glory” awards were presented by COMBOX CDMX and the WBC, in a memorable ceremony at the elegant and traditional Hotel Geneve in bustling Mexico City.

The ceremony was done by World Boxing Council President Mauricio Sulaiman, who was proud to be able to recognize  great national champions who have given so much glories to our country, as well as those  who have worked and left a lasting, shining mark in favor of our sport. Each recipient received a beautiful jug with their photo on.

The President of COMBOX, Mr. Ciro Nucci, took the microphone to thank all those who make this event possible.

In this edition, the awarded icons were:

Rafael “Bazooka” Limon: for his incredible professionalism, inside boxing and in his military career.  In the Military, Rafa’s  bugle call reveille was at 5am, two hours before the rest, got out of their beds.  Standing to attention and training at the double, captured the attention. Bazooka twice won the WBC super featherweight crown.  Four titanic fights with Bobby Chacon.  Their last encounter was the final WBC championship bout of fifteen rounds. Bazooka dropped Bobby twice, was himself felled in the final round, got up, but lost the decision.  A  truly magnificent career of 52 wins, including 39 KO’s, 23 lost and two draws.  Accompanied by his Wife, whereas Rafael boxing power often cut brows that had to be stitched, he had the entire meeting “In stitches,” with memories of some of his army larks!

Ramon Marquez: One of our very best, perceptive and insightful boxing journalists. Slim, elegant, suave with a sparkling sense of humour Don Ramon won the national prize of journalism among other distinctions. A close friend of our dear Don Jose Sulaiman, Ramon has been a journalist for 54 years.  He’s worked for Excelsior, El Universal and Proceso to name a few.  Interview triumphs include: Muhammad Ali,  Joe Frazier, George Foreman and Ken Norton.  Don Ramon was accompanied by his Wife and son.

Ladislao Mijangos: One of the best Mexican heavyweights in all history; he defeated two former division world champions, namely Jimmy Ellis and Leon Spinks.  Ladislao even took on George Foreman!  He won the national title of this division.

Agustín Palacios: The veteran and wise manager was a very popular and deserving winner. So much so that he received three prolonged rounds of applause.  Agustin worked with another great manager Arturo “Cuyo” Hernandez. After receiving his award, he wiped a tear away, and smiling wished everyone: “A happy day!”

Gelasio Perez: who doesn’t  love the kind, fair, decent and smiling Gelasio?!   Without a shadow of doubt, our  most beloved Referee.  He was an amateur and professional boxer. As a pro he fought 30 fights winning 20.  In 1986 Gelasio became a Referee.  He’s expertly, astutely and humanely refereed more than 60 world title bouts all over the World and is also a superb Judge. Famous for his underarm, overarm gesture to start action in the ring,  Gelasio is liked, loved and respected by everyone who lis lucky enough to meet him.  His award jug citation read: “Hagan una pelea emotive pero limpio.”  Have an emotive but clean fight. One of his favourite sayings!  He was accompanied by his Wife Amalia.

Congratulations to all of you!