Mexico City.- ATTENTION: Retired boxers who continue to fight in California are trying to collect their retirement pensions.
As unusual as it may seem, Mexican authorities, the California State Athletic Commission and the World Boxing Council have released a report today in an effort to track down 206 boxers. Already retired.
Even with about $2.5 million to distribute, the task is not easy, as explained by Roberto Velasco, head of the North America division of the Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
“Many people fought when there were no cell phones or social networks. Others may have been too old or dead,” said World Boxing Council president Mauricio Suleiman.
However, if they are over 50 years old and have fought continuously in California for more than three years without a break – 10 rounds (one fight) per year for four years or a total of 75 professional rounds – they can apply for a pension or their direct relatives. Commission Vice President Vernon Williams explained that boxers can do that if they are already dead.
According to the commission, his is the only pension for retired boxers in the world. The fund was created in 1982, but it is only since 2012 that its existence has become more publicized and it has reached more beneficiaries.
Now the commission has asked for help from Mexican diplomatic officials and the World Boxing Council, saying, “Today boxers don’t wear gloves, but we want to get the checks in their hands that they actually fought and won.” Williams..
The Mexican Secretary of State has obtained a list of more than 200 names of former boxers who are eligible for pensions and is going through their documents. So far they have found 23 people, four of whom have already received their checks, Velasco said.
Knowing that funds are available is a more complex matter. Jose Refugio “Cuco” Rojas, one of the Mexican nationals already on pension, didn’t know until he got the call four months ago. Then he explained, “It’s very simple, just get in touch with them.” “Money is always welcome.”
The commission’s vice-chairman said everyone who meets the requirements detailed on its website is eligible for the pension, regardless of gender or nationality. “It’s a way to show appreciation to those veterans,” Williams added.
“They’re recovering a little bit from the hard work they’ve put in,” said Eric Morales, “El Terrible,” another former Mexican boxer thankful for the opportunity to leave the ring and resume his daily life. According to him, sometimes “many people find it difficult”.
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