Fernando Zuniga – Welterweight Boxing Champion

Posted by Oscar Rosales

on Dec 29, 2015

Note: This story was taken at the Dec. 4, 2015 meeting not previously published

Posted by Oscar Rosales, December 4, 2015

Fernando Zuniga, three time Welterweight Champion of the World gave a stirring program about his climb to becoming a champion. Fernando, born in Ecuador, February 4, 1973, began training for a boxing career at the early age of 5 years.

He made his professional boxing debut at 14 years of age after not receiving expense monies promised to him as an amateur fighter for his country. Fighting anywhere he could get a bout, he effectually was offered a “stand-in” fight with William Joppy, middleweight champion of the world. With only a 3 day notice he couldn’t refuse the offer. Thought he lost this bout he went, to the surprise of everyone, ten rounds with Joppy. A frustrated Joppy could not put Fernando on the canvas; and the world noticed. After this fight the offers came in.

At 5' 11" and 160 lbs he became champion of the world. Fernando’s nickname was, Little Ali. His record was 28 Wins 10 Losses with 20KO’s. He really held our Paramount Rotarians attention. John Rodgerson commented, "That was exciting."

Fernando Zuniga is now the owner of the Latigo Boxing Club at 15607 Lakewood Blvd., Paramount. His intentions are to help kids with disabilities grow by being taught the art of boxing.

We also had as a guest, Chris Zavala a formidable amateur boxer. He brought his championship belts and proudly displayed them. Remember this young man, for he will make a try for the USA Boxing Team to compete in the upcoming Olympic Games in Brazil.

Fernando Zuniga (L) with Oscar. To learn more about Fernando's Boxing club click onto http://latigoboxingclub.com/

We wish everyone a wonderful and joyous Holiday Season. Our next club meeting will be January 5.