November 4, 2024

Panchito Villa became the first Filipino boxer to conquer a world title

Panchito Villa became the first Filipino boxer to conquer a world title

Panchito Villa became the first Filipino boxer to conquer a world title

One day like today, Panchito Villa became the first Filipino boxer to conquer a world title.

1923 – Panchito Villa (Francisco Villarruel Guilledo) became the first Filipino boxer to conquer a world title, the flyweight crown. He defeated the brilliant but aging Jimmy Wilde, from Wales. Jimmy only lost three fights during his entire career.

Pancho and Jimmy are considered as two of the best flyweights in all boxing history.

The fight took place at the Polo Grounds baseball park in New York.

About Author