ACAPULCO WELCOMES THE BOXING FAMILY WITH OPEN ARMS FOR THE OPENING OF THE 64TH ANNUAL WBC CONVENTION

The boxing family has gathered at Mundo Imperial in Acapulco for the opening ceremony of the 64th Annual WBC Convention, celebrating the sport’s history, sharing moving personal stories and looking ahead to its future.

The head table featured Mauricio Sulaimán, Héctor Sulaimán, Julio César Chávez, Jackie Nava, Katie Taylor, Guerrero Governor Evelyn Salgado, and Seyed Rezvani, Managing Director and CEO of Mundo Imperial.

Following their introductions, a video revisited the 2022 Convention, which took place at this same venue. Mauricio Sulaimán then welcomed those in attendance, expressing his happiness at seeing so many people united by their love of boxing. He also highlighted that this Convention will showcase the WBC’s evolution.

The legacy of José Sulaimán was honored through a video exploring the glory of his history with the WBC. A tribute to the WBC’s legendary champions followed, leading into remarks from Jackie Nava, Daniel Zaragoza and Erik “Terrible” Morales.

Nava spoke of the honor of becoming the first female world champion in WBC history. Zaragoza recalled memorable moments from his career, while Morales thanked the WBC for its commitment to caring for boxers and recognized the efforts he sees the organization make each year.

Today’s female champions also took center stage. Following a video celebrating them, Lulu Juárez reflected on her introduction to boxing and how the sport has transformed her life.

Tiara Brown delivered one of the ceremony’s most emotional speeches. She shared how the WBC changed her life and explained that she had never imagined becoming a world champion. Her message encouraged everyone in attendance to pursue their dreams.

The segment honoring current champions featured WBC Lightweight World Champion William “Camarón” Zepeda and WBC Super Featherweight World Champion O’Shaquie Foster.

Zepeda recalled attending a Convention six years earlier, to compete on a boxing card and returning now as a world champion. Foster thanked the organization and reflected on the profound impact boxing has had on his life.

The ceremony continued with the entrance of the Mexican Armed Forces’ drum and bugle corps and the performance of the Mexican national anthem. Current and former champions then paraded through the ballroom carrying flags representing different nations. Katie Taylor had the honor of carrying the iconic WBC Green and Gold Belt.

As the opening ceremony approached its conclusion, a children’s choir performed “We Are the World” before Governor Evelyn Salgado officially declared the convention open also declaring: “Viva Acapulco.” 

The boxers in attendance then gathered on stage for a moment of camaraderie as a mariachi ensemble played, bringing a distinctly Mexican finish to a celebration of boxing’s shared passion and unity.