Mexico–Puerto Rico boxing rivalry
The rivalry between Puerto Rican and Mexican boxers is recognized as one of the most intense in boxing history.[1] Originating in 1934, this rivalry has been watched by fans across multiple generations. Over the years, both nations have raised numerous fighters who have competed in boxing matches against each other including Julio Cesar Chavez, Felix Trinidad, Oscar De La Hoya, Miguel Cotto, and Hector Camacho. It has said to have started when Sixto Escobar became the first Puerto Rican champion by knocking out Mexican champion Rodolfo "Baby" Casanova.[2]
In world title matches, Puerto Rican boxers hold a slight statistical advantage over their Mexican rivals,[3] with Puerto Rico achieving 85 wins compared to Mexico with 74 wins. The most recent matchups resulted in Puerto Rico’s Oscar Collazo defeating Mexican Jesus Haro.
Most Recent Championship Fights Puerto Rico vs. Mexico
| Date | Winner | Opponent | Result | Title | Winning Side |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2026-03-14 | Oscar Collazo | Jesus Haro | RTD6 | WBA WBO RING | Puerto Rico 85-74 |
| 2025-07-27 | Eduardo Nunez | Christopher Diaz | UD12 | IBF 126 | Mexico 74-84 |
| 2025-07-27 | Xander Zayas | Jorge Garcia | UD12 | WBO 154 | Puerto Rico 84-73 |
| 2025-03-29 | Oscar Collazo | Edwin Cano | KO5 | WBA, WBO, The Ring 105 | Puerto Rico 83-73 |
| 2024-09-14 | Canelo Alvarez | Edgar Berlanga | UD12 | Undisputed 168 | Mexico 73-82 |
| 2021-07-21 | Johnathan Gonzalez | Elwin Soto | TKO5 | WBO 108 | Puerto Rico 82-72 |
| 2021-04-24 | Emanuel Navarrete | Christopher Diaz | TKO12 | WBO 126 | Mexico 72-81 |
| 2021-07-21 | McWilliams Arroyo | Abraham Rodriguez | SD12 | WBC 112 | Puerto Rico 81-71 |
In pop culture
The Super Bowl LX Halftime Show featured two boxers, one Mexican and one Puerto Rican, squaring off, a reference to this rivalry.
References
- ^ Kevin Baxter (2008-07-15). "This rivalry packs real punch." LA Times. Retrieved 2024-12-12
- ^ "The Rivalry: Mexico vs. Puerto Rico". Frontproof Media. 2015-11-20. Retrieved 2024-12-03.
- ^ Fischer, Doug (2015-11-17). "The Rivalry: Mexico vs. Puerto Rico". The Ring. Retrieved 2024-09-19.