Remembering and cherishing Don José: Legacy and Commitment To The Noble Art

On October 1, 2025, an emotional tribute was held in honor of José Sulaimán Chagnón, the renowned President of the World Boxing Council  for over three decades, at the Club Libanés in Mexico City.

The extraordinary life and legacy celebration brought together family, friends, business leaders, and sports figures, who shared stories and remembered his unwavering commitment to boxer safety, the global promotion of the sport, and his dedication to fostering generations of champions.

The tribute was supported by George El Jallad, representative of the Lebanese Embassy in Mexico, as well as prominent business figures including Carlos Slim and Carlos Slim Domit.

Other attendees included Fernando Espino, leader of the Mexico City Metro Union, and Horacio de la Vega, president of the Mexican Baseball League (LMB).

Mauricio Sulaimán, the President of the WBC and son of Don José, said during the ceremony:

“Gratitude is the memory of the heart, and I am certain that the family will leave with their hearts full and warm.”

The atmosphere of the event combined joy  and gratitude. Athletes close to the family joined in the recognition, including Olympic medalists Daniel Aceves, Jesús Mena, and Carlos Mercenario, who highlighted Don Jose’s  vision and wisdom for linking sports with social causes.

Additionally, former world champions Humberto “Chiquita” González, Daniel Zaragoza, and Rey Vargas shared heartfelt testimonies about the support and guidance they received from the legendary leader, whom they considered a true protector and guardian of boxers and the great talents he fostered.

The evening not only honored A Truly Great Man  who elevated the WBC to the pinnacle of world boxing, but also celebrated the family man and proud descendant of the Lebanese community in Mexico.