Today Gilberto Mendoza, President Emeritus of the World Boxing Association, would be have been 73 years. And while he is no longer with us physically, it is a day to remember the joyous legacy of a man who is gone but not forgotten.
Don Gilberto took advantage of every opportunity that presented itself in all aspects of life. He repeatedly put himself in the line of fire to capitalize on the possibilities of growth regarding the communities and environments to which he dedicated his time.
In the specific case of boxing he reached out to the fighters, especially those who did not enjoy media support, but technical cocerns were equal to or greater than that which monopolized the cameras. Gilberto felt that principles were an essential part of any boxing primer.
Gilberto Mendoza believed in the regional development of pugilism, that boxing is a global concern that transcends pay-per-view or box office sales. For him, boxing was always first and foremost a vehicle of social development which, besides nurturing promising athletes, also helps young people develop into responsible adults.
Because Gilberto could not conceive of boxing solely as a business, he created the KO Drugs campaign in which multiple world champions have participated over the years. These include Gennady Golovkin, Rosendo Alvarez, Marcos Maidana, Evander Holyfield, Felix “Tito” Trinidad, Oscar De La Hoya, and many others. The main goal has always been to keep youth away from drugs through lectures and sporting events, to be good people, and to provide opportunities for boxers to fight for regional titles.
So today we celebrate the life of a man who left his heart and soul in the ring. He never complained, even about his fiercest enemy, and was always willing to give a word of encouragement to those in need of support. The best way to honor his memory and celebrate his life is by trying to be better every day and to reach out to those less fortunate than ourselves. It is a good cause, as Gilberto Mendoza surely knew, and as he surely practiced.
This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.
