Antonio Cermeno Venezuelan boxer, two-time world title winner Date of Birth: 06.03.1969 Country: Venezuela

Biography of Antonio Sermeño

Antonio José Verdú Cermak, known as Antonio Sermeño, was a Venezuelan boxer and a two-time world champion. Born in Caracas, Venezuela, Sermeño began his professional boxing career on September 1, 1990, with a fight against American boxer Jose Angel Medina. Despite his opponent's slightly more experienced background, Sermeño knocked out Medina in the second round.

In 1995, Sermeño won his first championship title, the WBA super bantamweight title, by defeating the previous champion Wilfredo Vazquez. The fight took place in Bayamón, Puerto Rico, and Sermeño was declared the winner by the judges' decision. He successfully defended his title on November 26, 1995, against Jesus Salud, showcasing his superior skills and retaining his championship belt.

On March 23, 1996, Sermeño defended his title for the second time against Yober Ortega in Miami, USA, winning by a unanimous decision. He continued his winning streak by defeating his third title contender in Las Vegas on December 21, 1996. Interestingly, the referee for this fight was Mitch Halpern, a well-known figure in American boxing.

In May 1997, Sermeño faced a tough challenge from Angel Chacon, who had not been defeated before. Although Sermeño dominated the majority of the fight, Chacon launched successful attacks and showed determination until the end. Eventually, Sermeño managed to secure the victory and retain his title.

In 1998, Sermeño relinquished his championship belt, and Enrique Sanchez took over as the new champion. Despite stepping away from professional boxing, Sermeño remained involved in the sport, often serving as a mentor and coach for young athletes.

Tragically, on February 24, 2014, Sermeño and his wife, along with several relatives, were kidnapped by unknown individuals in the eastern part of Caracas. Most of the kidnapped individuals managed to escape when the kidnappers stopped to refuel their car, but Sermeño was not as fortunate. His body was discovered on a highway the next morning, having suffered a fatal gunshot wound.

The investigation into Sermeño's kidnapping and murder is ongoing, with the motives of the perpetrators still unclear. The police have not released much information to the press, leaving many unanswered questions surrounding this tragic event. Despite his untimely death, Sermeño's impressive record of 45 victories and only 7 losses solidified his legacy as a talented and accomplished boxer.