Honoring an Icon: “Sulaimán a Doce Rounds” Presented in Guadalajara

The Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL) in Jalisco, Mexico, served as the literary stage for the launch of “Sulaimán a doce rounds” (Sulaimán at Twelve Rounds). This book, an emotional compilation by the current World Boxing Council (WBC) President, Mauricio Sulaimán Saldívar, honors the journey and achievements of his father, the legendary Don José Sulaimán Chagnón.

The volume, published by Heraldo Ediciones, is the inaugural piece in the “Personajes” (Personalities) series by Heraldo Media Group. The presentation event featured key boxing figures, including multi-time world champion Jackie Nava, the family’s eldest son, Pepe Sulaimán, and renowned trainer Chepo Reynoso.

The acclaimed trainer Chepo Reynoso emphasized Don José’s monumental influence on the sport: “Boxing is a before and an after José Sulaimán… When José Sulaimán became president of the WBC, doors were opened for all fighters.” His arrival marked a turning point that democratized opportunities for pugilists.

Pepe Sulaimán shared vivid memories of his father, describing him as a man who dedicated his existence to boxing. His modest origins afforded him a deep understanding of the harsh reality faced by the athletes.

Pepe recounted the intense situation of 1975: Don José, recently elected WBC president at the Tunis convention, was on the verge of resigning due to the overwhelming workload. Nevertheless, he agreed to stay under one fundamental and non-negotiable condition: “I accept the position of president only if you allow me to make an important change in boxing toward the safety of the boxer.”

“He dedicated himself body and soul to caring for, protecting, and giving them a better life before, during, and after being boxers,” affirmed Pepe, summarizing his father’s mission.

Francisco Moreno, Director of Heraldo Ediciones, read a quote from Franco Carreño (Director of Heraldo Media Group) that praised Don José’s persona: “A family man, businessman, friend, and father, José Sulaimán successfully piloted ideas that overturned the rules, norms, and conditions under which men and women practiced boxing; thanks to this, they achieved and experienced better settings.”

To conclude the event, champion Jackie Nava highlighted Don José’s paternal and advocacy role: “For many, Don José Sulaimán was an emblematic figure. For those of us fortunate enough to know him, he was a guide, a defender. A defender of male and female boxers. And it must also be said, a master of speeches… But every word was worth something.”.