WBC Amateur Verde y Oro World Championship: A Historic Milestone in Tijuana

 From October 16 to 19, 2025, Tijuana became the center of the amateur boxing world, hosting the first edition of the “Verde y Oro World Championship”, sanctioned by the WBC Amateur Committee. Coordinated by promoter Monroy González and supported by the WBC and the National System of Amateur Boxing Schools (SNEBA), the event set a historic precedent in the region. The opening ceremony featured legendary Julio César Chávez, while the closing awards ceremony was led by historic world champion Jackie Nava.

The tournament brought together 350 boxers from 15 countries across the Americas, Europe, and Africa. Participating delegations included Mexico (host), Argentina, Bolivia, Cuba, USA, Nigeria, Uganda, Venezuela, Paraguay, Switzerland, Chile, Costa Rica, and Panama. Competition was held across three age and weight categories: Children (13-14), Junior (15-17), and Elite (18-32).

 The event received strong institutional support: Mayor Ismael Burgueño provided facilities, lodging, and meals for the athletes, in collaboration with IMDET and CONADE, ensuring smooth logistics for a world-class competition.

 The fights at the Tijuana Municipal Auditorium kept the audience on the edge of their seats. In the women’s division, Valeria “La Flakita” Pérez (Mexico) shone, claiming her seventh Verde y Oro amateur world title by knockout. Tijuanense Nicole Ángeles also impressed, defeating Argentina’s Daisy Gómez by split decision.

 In the men’s division, local boxers dominated: Tijuanenses Víctor Fernando “El Cachorro” Valderrama, Ángel “Gallito” Hilario, Abi García, and Oscar Castro became world champions, alongside other Mexican titleholders Mariana Monsalvo, Martín Iglesias, Nadine Castelán, Sarahí Pérez, Ángel Gabriel, Guadalupe Torres, and Jesús Regalado.

During the awards ceremony, champions received WBC belts, while runners-up were honored with commemorative medals. Jackie Nava played a prominent role, personally awarding several winners.

 Organizers and officials highlighted the tournament’s significance. Mauricio Sulaimán, WBC president, stated that “the amateur base is the future of the sport,” emphasizing the importance of promoting Olympic-level boxing and developing young talent.

 The championship was made possible through collaboration between WBC and SNEBA, led by Monroy González, showcasing national talent and strengthening amateur boxing schools. Eduardo Medécigo, mayor of Mineral de la Reforma, commented: “These achievements bring pride to Hidalgo and Mexico,” emphasizing the international relevance of the young champions.”

The WBC Amateur Verde y Oro World Championship not only marked a historic milestone in Tijuana but also reaffirmed the WBC’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of champions, establishing Mexico as a reference in amateur boxing worldwide.