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Richie SandovalAmerican boxer
Date of Birth: 18.10.1960
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Richie Sandoval: American Boxing Legend
- National Success and International Glory
- Professional Boxing Career
- Title Defenses and Health Struggles
- Health Crisis and Retirement
- Coaching and Legacy
Richie Sandoval: American Boxing Legend
Early Life and Amateur CareerRichie Sandoval, born October 18, 1960, in Pomona, California, began boxing under the guidance of his older brother, Alberto. By 1977, he emerged as a bronze medalist in the first flyweight division at the U.S. Amateur Championships.
In 1978, Sandoval won the Golden Gloves tournament in Albuquerque. He joined the U.S. national team and competed in the World Championships in Belgrade, where he earned a bronze medal in the semifinals, losing to the formidable Cuban Jorge Hernandez.
National Success and International Glory
Sandoval became a two-time U.S. Amateur Champion in 1979 (up to 48 kg) and won another Golden Gloves title. He added a gold at the World Cup in New York and a silver at the Pan American Games in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
In 1980, Sandoval triumphed at the U.S. Amateur Championships in the flyweight division and qualified for the Olympic Games in Moscow. However, due to the boycott by the United States, he was unable to compete. Nonetheless, he received the Congressional Gold Medal in 2007 for his accomplishments.
Professional Boxing Career
Sandoval made his professional debut in November 1980. After an impressive 22-0 record, he challenged Jeff Chandler for the World Boxing Association (WBA) bantamweight title in 1984. He knocked out Chandler in the 15th round, becoming a world champion.
Title Defenses and Health Struggles
Sandoval successfully defended his title twice. However, weight management issues forced him to fight in non-title bouts in different weight classes. In March 1986, he attempted to defend his WBA title against Gabi Canizales but succumbed to a technical knockout in the 7th round.
Health Crisis and Retirement
The brutal fight with Canizales resulted in a near-fatal brain injury. Sandoval underwent surgery and spent several days in critical condition. His boxing career was effectively over.
Coaching and Legacy
After retiring from boxing, Sandoval worked as a boxing coach for Top Rank in Las Vegas. He passed away on July 22, 2024, at the age of 63.
Richie Sandoval's legacy as a world champion and exceptional amateur boxer continues to inspire boxing enthusiasts around the world.
