The WBC mourns the passing of “Indio” Ortega

We have received sad news in the boxing family as former Mexican boxer Gaspar Ortega just passed away.

“Indio” as he was known, was a great glory and a true legend for Mexican boxing, especially from Tijuana.

Gaspar was the third Mexican with the most victories achieved in his career. He started his career in 1953 (he debuted at 17 years of age) and retired in 1965.

In that 12-year career, Gaspar had 131 victories. Only Luis Villanueva “Kid Azteca” with 192 and Luis “Baby” Vázquez with 138, are ahead of him.

Of his 131 wins, 69 were by knockout. He was not a great knockout artist, as he was a boxer with more technique and intelligence in the ring. He lost 39 fights, the impressive thing is that only 2 were via knockout; and he drew 6 times.

His fights were spectacular, full of action, passion and great technique and talent. He always had terrific numbers at the box office and on television charts.

He fought 20 times at Madison Square Garden, and in luxurious venues in the United States such as Boston Garden and the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles. He also fought in Italy, the UK, and France.

His biggest fights were the 13 he had against rivals who were world champions. He 3 times faced Tony De Marco, Kid Gavilán two times, Don Jordan two times, Benny Kid Paret once, Sandro Mazzinghi and Carmen Basilio, and Emile Grifith twice.

Despite not having been a world champion, his career was brilliant. In August 2013, the WBC awarded Gaspar “Indio” Ortega a world champion belt, in recognition of his legacy and his memorable fights.

The World Boxing Council and its president Mauricio Sulaimán, pray to God to offer the family of our beloved champion solace.

May he Rest in eternal peace!