The WBA mourns the passing of Venezuela’s first world champion.

Former WBA/WBC super lightweight champion Carlos “Morocho” Hernandez (60-12-4, 44 KOs), the Fighting Pride of Caracas, Venezuela, passed away today at the age of 77.

“Morocho,” so-called because of his dark complexion, turned pro in 1959 in his native Caracas with a TKO victory over Felix Gil. A year and a half later he won the Venezuelan lightweight title via 8th round knockout, late KOs had already become something of a Hernandez specialty.

On January 18, 1965, in his crowning moment in the ring, “Morocho” won a 15-round split decision over reigning and defending WBA/WBC super lightweight champion Eddie Perkins to claim the title.

His lost the title, after two successful defenses, to Sandro Lopopolo by unanimous decision, 15 months later.

Hernandez continued to fight against tough competition. He regrouped and went 7-2-1 after the loss of his title. Then “Morocho” reeled off nine straight wins, eight by early stoppage, against fighters with winning records, to earn another shot at the WBA crown.

This time the WBA champion was Nicolino Locche (117-4-14, 14 KOs), the defensive genius fighting out of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Locche was no knockout artist. He won by unanimous decision. But his artistry, his ability to hit and not get hit in return, enabled him to hold and successfully defend the title for another three years.

Carlos “Morocho” Hernandez retired in 1971 after a TKO loss to Ken Buchanan.

He was a great fighter, a great champion, a fighting champion, and the WBA feels a void in his absence.

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.