IMG_0192 Por Jonathan Gaudier / Prensa OMB –

SAN JUAN, PR Por segundo año consecutivo, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo y su Presidente Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, en unión al Campeón Latino ligero de la OMB, Félix ‘El Diamante’ Verdejo llevaron alegría a los niños y niñas de la comunidad del desaparecido Residencial Las Gladiolas, obsequiándoles bicicletas, juguetes y equipo deportivo. Esto, como parte de su exitoso programa mundial “WBO Kids Drug Free”.  

“Es un compromiso que Félix (Verdejo) tiene con su comunidad y es un momento de alegría que él quiere compartir con su gente”, dijo el Lcdo. Valcárcel. “Nosotros estamos apoyando a nuestro Campeón Latino durante esta semana de los Tres Reyes Magos, junto al héroe de la comunidad, Félix Verdejo”.  

La actividad, que contó con la presencia de decenas de niños de la comunidad de Las Gladiolas, fue amenizada por Francisco Valcárcel y Félix Verdejo. “Estoy muy agradecido con Dios y con la OMB por permitirnos llevar estos regalos a los niños de mi comunidad”, indicó ‘El Diamante’ Verdejo. “Esto no es solo venir y entregar regalos, esto va más allá. Necesitamos que estos niños hagan caso a lo que dicen sus padre y dejarse guiar por el camino correcto. Todo esto con el fin de ser un ciudadano de bien en el futuro”.  

Entretanto, Ricky Márquez manifestó que, “somos facilitadores y estamos muy contentos con la iniciativa de Félix (Verdejo), junto al compromiso de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo por esta gran aportación como parte del programa ‘Niñez libre de Drogas’. Félix es un muchacho puertorriqueño que reúne las cualidades que todo padre desearía tengan sus hijo. Un joven responsable, disciplinado, humilde y cariñoso. El que lo vean como un modelo a seguir es una responsabilidad muy grande y sé que continuará por ese camino”.  

La OMB, los boxeadores y los amigos del boxeo compartieron en un ambiente de fiesta junto a los niños, otorgando varias bicicletas, juegos de mesa, juguetes, artículos deportivos y artículos escolares.  

Mientras, el Campeón Mundial junior ligero de la OMB, Román ‘Rocky’ Martínez, mencionó que, “esto es algo muy bonito que hace la Organización Mundial de Boxeo con los niños y jóvenes más necesitados. El deporte salva a la juventud del vicio y de las calles. Debemos seguir llevando el mensaje y seguir apoyando la obra de la OMB”.  

En la actividad dijeron presente los ex campeones mundiales Alfredo ‘El Salsero’ Escalera y José ‘Carita’ López, los prospectos Jean Carlos ‘Lobo’ Torres y Daniel Alicea, la boxeadora aficionada y Medallista de Oro Kiria Tapia, los jueces César Ramos, Luis Ruiz, Nelson Vázquez, Idalia Parra y Hernando Steidel, los árbitro Roberto Ramírez y Melva Santos.   

En adición a Valcárcel, por parte de la OMB estuvieron en la actividad el Secretario General Lcdo. José Izquierdo, el Tesorero Adolfo Flores Monge, el Presidente del Comité de Quejas y Agravios Lcdo. Alberto Rodríguez y el árbitro José H. Rivera.  

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SAN JUAN, PR- Cumpliendo una promesa realizada al fenecido boxeador y entrenador Juan ‘Golo’ Gómez, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo, presidida por el Lcdo. Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, llevó regalos y equipo de boxeo al gimnasio Juan ‘Popo’ Guzmán de Las Curias en Cupey Alto, esto como parte de su exitoso programa mundial “WBO Kids Drug Free”.

“En la OMB tenemos un compromiso con el boxeo, ya que nosotros forjamos campeones, pero nuestra misión va más allá de eso. Queremos tocar las vidas de los jóvenes más necesitados, y nos enorgullece tener campeones y prospectos que sirven de ejemplo y nos ayudan a cumplir esa misión”, indicó el Secretario General de la OMB, Lcdo. José Izquierdo. “Con nuestro programa ‘Niñez Libre de Drogas’, queremos demostrar que el deporte es una herramienta para encaminarnos positivamente y efectuar ese verdadero cambio social que todos queremos. Como parte de un compromiso que tenemos con ‘Golo’ y en honor a su memoria, le traemos unos obsequios a estos jóvenes para que le saquen el mayor provecho”.

Mientras, la colaboradora y asesora del gimnasio, Edna Silvestrini dijo que, “en nombre de la Familia Gómez Trinidad, queremos agradecer a la Organización Mundial de Boxeo por siempre estar presente. ‘Golo’ luchó por este equipo que hoy nos están obsequiando y estoy segura que está gozoso en estos momentos por que su gimnasio continúa funcionando y siendo una incubadora de jóvenes talentosos. Como escribió Isabel Allende: ‘La muerte no existe, la gente solo muere cuando la olvidamos. Si puedes recordarme, siempre estaré contigo’. Vamos a seguir poniendo en alto el nombre de Las Curias”.

En la actividad dijeron presente el ex campeón mundial Víctor ‘Luvi’ Calleja, los prospectos Eliezer ‘Waa’ González, Christopher ‘Pitufo’ Díaz y Jean Carlos ‘Lobo’ Torres, el entrenador Ricky Márquez, el juez Luis Ruiz y la árbitro Melva Santos, entre otros colaboradores del boxeo en Puerto Rico.

“Me siento muy contento por todo el apoyo de la OMB y ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, que siempre se desbordan en detalles para los más necesitados”, manifestó Eliezer ‘Waa’ González. “Esta muestra de cariño alivia un poco la tristeza de haber perdido a nuestro ‘Golo’ y me motiva a seguir la obra de Juan ‘Popo’ Guzmán  y Juan ‘Golo’ Gómez. Te aseguró que honraré su memoria con toda la fuerza de mi corazón y ayudaré a todos estos niños a mantenerse fuera de las calles para que sean grandes deportistas y personas de bien”.

La OMB y los boxeadores compartieron en un ambiente de fiesta junto a los jóvenes, otorgando varias bicicletas, juegos de mesa, juguetes, artículos deportivos, artículos escolares y equipo de boxeo para el Gimnasio Juan ‘Popo’ Guzmán.

En adición a Izquierdo, por parte de la OMB estuvieron en la actividad el Tesorero Adolfo Flores Monge, el Asesor Dr. Jorge Figueroa y el árbitro José H. Rivera.

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10491234_1899062306814123_8676008594024567282_n  Fotos por Victor Planas, WBO –

Continuando con su gran labor social en esta época navideña, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) llevó regalos y alegría a decenas de jóvenes que se dieron cita en el Coliseo Tomás Dones de Fajardo, Puerto Rico, como parte de su exitoso programa mundial “WBO Kids Drug Free”.

“La Organización Mundial de Boxeo, en nombre de nuestro Presidente, Francisco Valcárcel, tiene la misión de impactar las comunidades más necesitadas a través de nuestro programa ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’, que en español significa niñez libre de drogas”, indicó el secretario general de la OMB, José Izquierdo. “Queremos que los jóvenes puedan utilizar estos obsequios de manera provechosa. La droga no es una alternativa, pero el deporte sí lo es. De esta manera los motivamos a querer convertirse en personas de bien”, agregó.

Mientras, el ex campeón mundial superpluma de la OMB, John John Molina dijo: “Gracias a la OMB por traer estos regalos a nuestros niños aquí en mi pueblo de Fajardo. A estos jóvenes debemos de encaminarlos en la ruta positiva. Si quieren practicar deporte, deben entrenar duro y si quieren llegar a tener una buena profesión, deben estudiar mucho. Tienen que mantenerse lejos de las drogas, porque las drogas son una porquería”.

En la actividad dijeron presente el ex campeón mundial Junior Mosca de la OMB, Nelson ‘Fueguete’ Dieppa, el campeón mundial Junior Gallo, McJoe Arroyo, el medallista de oro en el Campeonato Mundial de Milán 2009, McWilliams Arroyo, el medallista de oro Panamericano, Rafael ‘Fito’ Ramos y los prospectos Carlos ‘The Chosen One’ Arrieta, Alfredo ‘Ojo’ Santiago, Subriel Matthew y Edgardo ‘Correcaminos’ Marín. ombkidsdrugfreefajardo9

“Hay que aplaudir la gran labor social que está realizando la Organización Mundial de Boxeo. Aparte de crear grandes campeones en el deporte, su labor está enfocada en hacer que la juventud se aleje de las drogas y logren convertirse en campeones de la vida. En Fajardo estamos comprometidos con la juventud y el deporte. Tenemos que llevar a la juventud por buen camino y mantenerlos con mente sana en cuerpo sano”, manifestó el Alcalde de Fajardo, Anibal Meléndez, quien estuvo acompañado por su hijo Joey Meléndez, el Director de Deportes Félix Ramírez y el empresario Efigenio Rivera.

La OMB y los boxeadores compartieron en un ambiente de fiesta junto a las familias presentes, otorgando varias bicicletas, scooters, patinetas, juegos de mesa, juguetes, artículos deportivos, artículos escolares y equipo de boxeo para el Gimnasio Municipal Rafael ‘Fito’ Ramos.

Adicional a Izquierdo, por parte de la OMB estuvieron en la actividad el Tesorero Adolfo Flores Monge, el Asesor Dr. Jorge Figueroa y el árbitro José H. Rivera.

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LA ORGANIZACIÓN MUNDIAL DE BOXEO Y SU PROGRAMA MUNDIAL ‘WBO KIDS DRUG FREE’ LLEVÓ CLÍNICAS DE BOXEO AL COLEGIO MERCEDARIO SAN JUDAS TADEO DE PONCE

PONCE, PR– Llevando un contundente mensaje en contra de las drogas y buscando fomentar la combinación de estudios y deportes, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB), en representación de su Presidente, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, llegó con su exitoso programa mundial “WBO Kids Drug Free” al Colegio Mercedario San Judas Tadeo de Ponce, Puerto Rico.

“En nombre de nuestro Presidente, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, estamos llevando nuestro programa ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’, con un mensaje para nuestros jóvenes de mantenerse en el camino correcto, lejos de las drogas y de malas influencias”, manifestó el Tesorero de la OMB, Adolfo Flores Monge. “Queremos que nuestra juventud visualice el deporte como herramienta de mejoramiento personal, que estudien y que hagan las cosas correctamente, para que de esta manera logren un balance y tengan una vida verdaderamente productiva”.

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Mientras, el ex Campeón Mundial Mini Mosca de la OMB, Álex ‘El Nene’ Sánchez indicó que, “estoy muy agradecido con todo el apoyo que nos brinda la Organización Mundial de Boxeo. Son más de treinta países en dónde la OMB dice presente con su programa ‘Kids Drug Free’ y nos alegra que vengan a Ponce”.

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“En la calle hay mucha juventud con gran talento, y queremos rescatarlos de malos caminos y que puedan desarrollarse como debe ser.  Tenemos nuestro gimnasio de boxeo aquí en Ponce, ubicado en la Secretaría de Deportes, donde era la antigua Jaula del León, para que todo joven que quiera comenzar a trabajar en este deporte venga y nos acompañe”, añadió Sánchez.

Los jóvenes estudiantes recibieron clínicas de boxeo, impartidas por el ex campeón mundial así como los ex olímpicos Víctor ‘La Mole’ Bisbal y Carlos ‘La Cobra’ Negrón, y el juvenil Gerardo ‘White Lion’ Rivera, bajo la supervisión de los árbitros Ramón Peña y José Hiram Rivera.

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“Para mí es un honor poder compartir con estos jóvenes y llevarles un poco de nuestras vivencias dentro y fuera del deporte. La OMB está haciendo un excelente trabajo aquí en Puerto Rico y en todo el mundo, para motivar a la juventud”, dijo el prospecto peso pesado, Carlos ‘La Cobra’ Negrón.  omb-ponce8

En adición a las clínicas, los estudiantes recibieron obsequios por parte de la OMB.

La WBO (por sus siglas en inglés) estará celebrando su Vigésimo Octava Convención, la cual se llevará a cabo del 26 al 30 de octubre de 2015 en el Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista de Orlando, Florida.  Destacadas figuras del deporte, Campeones y ex Campeones Mundiales participarán de la misma.

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Contacto:

Jonathan Gaudier

Prensa Organización Mundial de Boxeo

787.215.1073

jonathangaudier@gmail.com

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SAN JUAN, PR– La Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) y su Presidente, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, junto a miembros directivos y personalidades del boxeo puertorriqueño, trasladaron su exitoso programa mundial ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’, al gimnasio del Complejo Deportivo Monserrate ‘Kike’ Ríos, ubicado en el Residencial Luis Llorens Torres de San Juan, Puerto Rico, el cual es administrado por el ex Campeón Mundial Jr. Gallo de la OMB, José ‘Carita’ López, surtiéndolo de equipo de boxeo.

El Presidente de la OMB, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, junto a López, estuvieron a cargo de la actividad.

“Hoy decimos presente en el gimnasio del Residencial Luis Lloréns Torres, como parte de nuestro compromiso con los gimnasios de Puerto Rico”, dijo el Lcdo. Valcárcel. “Figuras como ‘Carita’ López, que se mantienen comprometidos con la juventud, siempre contarán con nuestro apoyo. ‘Carita’ es un digno ejemplo de superación, ya que luego de varios intentos, logró convertirse en campeón de la OMB y sigue aportando sus conocimientos. Llevar el mensaje a estos muchachos jóvenes que vienen subiendo, de seguir luchando por sus metas, manteniéndose en el camino correcto y fuera de vicios, es nuestra misión principal”.

Los jóvenes boxeadores del gimnasio recibieron por parte de la OMB guantes, guanteletas, fajas, vendajes, caretas, cuicas, sacos y peras. Esto, para mejorar sus sesiones diarias de entrenamiento en el gimnasio.

“Estoy muy agradecido con Paco y la OMB por el apoyo incondicional. Aquí luchamos para ayudar a los jóvenes a mantenerse enfocados en el deporte y lejos de la calle. Queremos demostrar que de los residenciales salen más cosas positivas, que negativas”, manifestó José ‘Carita’ López.

López, quien tuvo varios intentos en busca de la corona, logró cumplir su meta al coronarse como Campeón Mundial Jr. Gallo (115 libras) de la OMB en marzo de 2009.

Además de Valcárcel y López, dijeron presente el ex Campeón Mundial Jr. Ligero Samuel ‘Torbellino’ Serrano, el ex contendor mundial Edwin ‘Zazule’ Vázquez, la Medallista de Oro Panamericano Kiria Tapia y el ex Olímpico de Londres 2012 Enrique ‘Kikín’ Collazo. Por parte de la OMB, el Comisionado Internacional Luis Pérez, el Tesorero Adolfo Flores Monge, el árbitro José Hiram Rivera y la jueza Idalia Parra.

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Contacto:

Jonathan Gaudier

Prensa Organización Mundial de Boxeo

787.215.1073

jonathangaudier@gmail.com

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Fotos:  Víctor Planas / OMB –

Artículo por Jonathan Gaudier –

SAN JUAN, PR– Como parte del exitoso programa mundial ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) y su Presidente, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, celebraron una emotiva actividad para incentivar a jóvenes boxeadores ex confinados, con el fin de mantenerlos enfocados y firmes en el camino correcto.

El Presidente de la OMB, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, junto a directivos de la OMB, ex campeones mundiales y personalidades del boxeo compartieron con varios púgiles del programa de ex confinados.

“Nosotros en la OMB hemos apoyado siempre el programa que comenzó Luvi Calleja, ayudando a estos jóvenes con equipo, torneos y manteniéndolos comprometidos en seguir por el camino positivo”, indicó Valcárcel. “Hoy realizamos esta actividad para entregarles equipo y que sepan que nosotros estamos comprometidos para que sean personas de bien. Contamos con el apoyo de varios ex campeones, quienes nos ayudan a supervisar a estos muchachos y mantenerlos enfocados en el gimnasio. Queremos que ellos sean ejemplo para otros jóvenes que están pasando por la misma situación, para que entiendan que las drogas, la delincuencia y los malos caminos no nos llevan a ser exitosos en la vida”.

Los jóvenes boxeadores ex confinados, recibieron por parte de la OMB uniformes y equipo de boxeo. Esto, para mejorar sus sesiones diarias de entrenamiento en el gimnasio.

“Paco y la OMB nos han ayudado muchísimo. Ellos adoptaron el programa que teníamos con 14 menores, donde bautizamos el área como ‘Módulo OMB’ y los muchachos podían salir a pelear fuera de la institución. Lamentablemente, Corrección nos canceló el programa, pero nosotros seguimos comprometidos con estos muchachos para llevarlos a ser mejores personas y buenos atletas”, dijo el ex campeón mundial junior pluma, Víctor ‘Luvi’ Calleja.

Por su parte, el ex confinado y doble campeón Nacional en las 178 libras, Luis Aponte, manifestó que “este programa ha sido súper bueno para mí. Emocionalmente me ha ayudado bastante, ya que durante mis tres años confinado, pude desarrollarme en este deporte y tener éxito. Ahora veo la vida de otra manera. Si nos mantenemos en la ruta positiva, definitivamente las oportunidades son mucho mejores. Con Dios primero y una mente positiva, no existen límites para triunfar en la vida”.

Además de Valcárcel, Calleja y Aponte, dijeron presente en la actividad los ex campeones mundiales Aléx ‘El Nene’ Sánchez e Iván Calderón, los boxeadores aficionados y ex confinados Roberto Rodríguez y Natanael Rodríguez, el manejador Margaro Cruz y los directivos de la OMB, Adolfo Flores Monge, Alberto Rodríguez y Joe Hernández.

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Contacto:

Jonathan Gaudier

Prensa Organización Mundial de Boxeo

787.215.1073

jonathangaudier@gmail.com

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Cerrando un espectacular año 2014, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB), presidida por el puertorriqueño Francisco “Paco” Valcárcel, y su exitoso programa mundial WBO Kids Drug Free llegó al pueblo de Salinas, Puerto Rico, para compartir y obsequiar juguetes, bicicletas y equipo deportivo a los niños y jóvenes del Gimnasio Ángel “Cholo” Espada.

La secretaria ejecutiva la OMB, Diana Meléndez, junto al contendor mundial y entrenador Víctor “La Mole” Bisbal, estuvieron a cargo de presentar la actividad.

“Continuando con el compromiso de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo, nuestro presidente Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel y el programa mundial WBO Kids Drug Free hoy cerramos este año 2014 llevando nuestro apoyo a un excelente grupo de jóvenes comprometidos del gimnasio Ángel ‘Cholo’ Espada en Salinas. Nuestro enfoque es apoyar y motivar a estos jóvenes para que puedan continuar con esta pasión por el deporte y se mantengan libre de vicios”, manifestó la Meléndez.

Los niños y jóvenes recibieron los regalos y compartieron con los ex campeones mundiales Ángel ‘Cholo’ Espada, Víctor ‘Luvi’ Calleja, Álex ‘El Nene’ Sánchez y John John Molina, el contendor mundial Orlando ‘El Fenómeno’ Cruz, el prospecto peso súper ligero John Karl Sosa, el medallista de oro de los Juegos Centroamericanos y del Caribe 2010, Gerardo Bisbal y la integrante de la Selección Nacional de Boxeo Aficionado de Puerto Rico y medallista de bronce en los Juegos Centroamericanos y del Caribe Veracruz 2014, Mercedes Alicea.

“Estoy muy contento de estar presente en esta actividad repleta de jóvenes talentosos y con deseos de triunfar en la vida. La OMB sigue llevando el mensaje para motivar a estos jóvenes y niños a seguir por el camino correcto”, dijo Orlando Cruz.

Mientras tanto, el ex campeón mundial de la OMB en el peso mínimo, Álex ‘El Nene’ Sánchez dijo, “seguir aportando para que nuestra niñez pueda continuar levantándose y creciendo en el deporte, es parte de nuestra labor. La Organización Mundial de Boxeo sigue con su compromiso genuino para que nuestra juventud se mantenga en la ruta del éxito y ahí siempre estaré para poner de mi parte”.

Además de Meléndez y los boxeadores, dijeron presente en la actividad, los entrenadores Félix Pagán Pintor y Álex Caraballo, el manejador Orlando Piñeiro, los jueces César Ramos y Luis Ruiz, y los árbitros José Hiram Rivera y Ramón Peña.

FOTOS: JOSÉ PÉREZ – OMB

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http://notifight.com/omb-lleva-alegria-ninos-y-jovenes-de-salinas-pr/

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Por:  Jonathan Gaudier –

Trasladando su exitoso programa mundial WBO Kids Drug Free al municipio de Añasco, Puerto Rico, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) y su presidente, el puertorriqueño Francisco “Paco” Valcárcel, junto a un exquisito grupo de figuras del boxeo puertorriqueño llevaron juguetes y alegría a los niños y jóvenes del residencial Francisco Figueroa.

El presidente Valcárcel, junto al entrenador Julio Ortiz amenizaron el evento para los presentes.

“Aquí estamos apoyando el trabajo que se está realizando en el oeste de Puerto Rico. En el Club de Boxeo de Añasco se está realizando una labor extraordinaria para mantener a estos jóvenes ocupados. La idea es tener a nuestra juventud fuera de la calle y de los malos hábitos. El deporte y los estudios deben estar de la mano para poder sacar a estos muchachos hacia delante. La Organización Mundial de Boxeo y este servidor nos comprometemos a apoyar todas estas gestiones positivas que se están realizando por el bien de nuestra juventud”, manifestó Valcárcel.

Los niños y jóvenes presentes recibieron regalos y compartieron con los ex campeones mundiales Samuel ‘El Torbellino’ Serrano y Alex ‘El Nene’ Sánchez, el campeón NABO pluma y primer clasificado Gamalier ‘Gammy’ Rodríguez, el prospecto peso súper mosca José ‘Chiquiro’ Martínez y la integrante de la Selección Nacional de Boxeo Aficionado de Puerto Rico, Mercedes Alicea.

“Para mí es una bendición poder compartir con estos jóvenes que están comenzando en este deporte del boxeo. Espero ser un ejemplo para ellos y que sepan que con dedicación, compromiso y con Dios en nuestras vidas, ningún sueño es imposible”, dijo Gamalier Rodríguez.

Mientras tanto, el ex campeón mundial de las 130 libras, Samuel ‘El Torbellino’ Serrano dijo, “Que bonito es ver las sonrisas de estos niños y poder llevar un poquito de alegría a sus vidas. El WBO Kids Drug Free es una herramienta grande para estos jóvenes, y poder compartir nuestras experiencias de vida para que ellos entiendan que en la calle no hay nada, es muy importante. Estudios y deporte, ahí está la clave del éxito”.

Además de Valcárcel y los boxeadores, dijeron presente en la actividad, los entrenadores Félix Pagán Pintor, Fernando Ríos, Ángel Rosario, los jueces César Ramos y Jerry Martínez, los miembros de la OMB, el Tesorero Adolfo Flores Monge, el Asesor Administrativo Manuel Marrero Hueca y los árbitros José Hiram Rivera y Ramón Peña.

FOTOS: JOSÉ PÉREZ – OMB

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http://www.notifight.com/omb-y-figuras-llevan-alegria-ninos-y-jovenes-de-anasco-pr/

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Por:  Jonathan Gaudier / Prensa OMB

Fotos:  José I. Pérez –

CAGUAS, PR- Solidificando su compromiso con la juventud, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) y su presidente, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, junto a ex campeones mundiales, contendores y prospectos del boxeo puertorriqueño llevaron su exitoso programa mundial “WBO Kids Drug Free”, obsequiando juguetes, bicicletas y equipo deportivo a los niños y jóvenes del Gimnasio José ‘Cheo’ Aponte de Caguas, Puerto Rico.

El presidente de la OMB, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, junto al veterano entrenador y manejador Orlando Piñeiro amenizaron el evento para los presentes.

“Este es un gimnasio de mucha tradición y donde se está trabajando con mucho compromiso para mantener ocupados y enfocados a nuestros niños. Necesitamos personas que pongan sus habilidades al favor de nuestra juventud para motivarlos a seguir estudiando y practicando deporte. Pueden contar siempre con el apoyo de la OMB y nuestro programa ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’ para ayudar a cumplir esa misión”, manifestó el presidente de la OMB, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel.

 Los niños y jóvenes recibieron regalos y compartieron con el ex doble campeón mundial Juan Manuel ‘Juanma’ López, los contendores Jonathan ‘Spartacus’ Oquendo, Víctor ‘La Mole’ Bisbal y Jesús Rojas, y los prospectos John Karl Sosa y Jonathan ‘Bomba’ González.

“Apoyar a la juventud que viene subiendo y todavía mejor a los del gimnasio donde me desarrollé, es muy importante para mí. Esa será mi nueva faceta, ayudar a los que vienen subiendo y poder aportar con mi experiencia. La OMB siempre estuvo ahí para mí y yo siempre estaré ahí para ellos”, dijo el ex monarca de la OMB en las 122 y 126 libras, Juan Manuel López.

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Mientras tanto, el  prospecto de las 108 libras, Jonathan ‘Bomba’ González dijo, “Agradecido con la OMB por la gran aportación que hacen con su programa ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’. Es una bendición poder servir de ejemplo a los niños y llevarles el mensaje para que sigan en la escuela y en el gimnasio practicando lo que nos apasiona”.

Además de Valcárcel y los boxeadores, dijeron presente en la actividad, los entrenadores Alex Caraballo, José García, el juez César Ramos, los miembros de la OMB, el Tesorero Adolfo Flores Monge, el Director de Oficiales de la OMB Genaro ‘Gino’ Rodríguez y el árbitro José H. Rivera.

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Por:  Jonathan Gaudier / Fotos por Jose Perez / Prensa OMB –

CANOVANAS, PR- Dibujando sonrisas en las caras de niños y jóvenes del barrio Cubuy de Canóvanas, Puerto Rico, la Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) y su presidente, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, junto a ex campeones mundiales y prospectos del boxeo puertorriqueño presentaron su exitoso programa mundial “WBO Kids Drug Free”, llevando un mensaje positivo y repartiendo juguetes y artículos deportivos a la juventud del barrio.

El presidente de la OMB, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, junto a entrenador del Club de Boxeo de Cubuy, Jesús Ayala presentaron la actividad para los niños y sus familias.

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“Estamos muy contentos con la labor que se está haciendo aquí en Cubuy. Nosotros estamos apoyando la labor titánica que están haciendo estos muchachos, sirviendo de ejemplo para toda la juventud y manteniéndolos ocupados y fuera de vicios. Este compromiso que demuestran con la juventud es justo lo que queremos llevar con nuestro programa ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’ para toda la juventud en Puerto Rico y en todos los países del mundo”, dijo el presidente de la OMB, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel.

Las decenas de niños y jóvenes recibieron regalos y reconocimientos de la mano del ex campeón mundial John John Molina, la ex campeona mundial Hanna Gabriels, los contendores mundiales Thomas Dulorme y Rey ‘El Maestro’ Ojeda, los prospectos Emmanuel ‘Pirata’ De Jesús, Alberto Mercado, Marcos ‘Marquitos’ Osorio y la integrante de la Selección Nacional de Boxeo Aficionado de Puerto Rico, Mercedes Alicea.

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“Le doy las gracias a la OMB por hacerme parte de está gran actividad. Me llena el corazón ver la sonrisa de estos niños y poder brindarles un poquito de alegría”, indicó el cuarto clasificado por la OMB en las 140 libras, Thomas Dulorme.

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Por su parte, el clasificado número trece por la OMB en las 135 libras y líder de la comunidad, Rey ‘El Maestro’ Ojeda dijo, “Gracias a la OMB por apoyar a esta juventud. Este es el resultado de mucho sacrificio y compromiso. Sabemos que el programa ‘WBO Kids Drug Free’ seguirá apoyando a nuestra juventud. Definitivamente el deportes es nuestra mejor herramienta para mantener a nuestros niños en el camino del bien”.

La actividad fue presentada por la OMB en el Centro Esteban Meléndez del barrio Cubuy en Canóvanas, Puerto Rico.

Además de Valcárcel y los boxeadores, dijeron presente en la actividad el promotor Félix ‘Tutico’ Zabala, los entrenadores Margaro Cruz y Angel ‘Negrito’ Rosario, los miembros de OMB, el Secretario General José Izquierdo, el Comisionado Internacional Luis Pérez, el Tesorero Adolfo Flores Monge, el Director de Oficiales Genaro Rodríguez y el árbitro José Hiram Rivera.

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PONCE, PR- The World Boxing Organization, headed by President Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, once again highlighted Christmas at the Sor Isolina Ferré Center in Ponce through its successful WBO Kids Drug Fee Program. The WBO, Regional Champions, former World Champions, Promoters, Officials, and Trainers of the Boxing World, brought joy and Christmas atmosphere to the participating center children through their gifts of toys, bicycles and sports equipment.

WBO, Francisco ‘Paco’ Valcárcel, together with the institution’s director, Sister Mildred Vázquez, offered this activity for the youth and children who participate of the various center programs.

“This commitment t began 17 years ago with Sister Isolina Ferré. We started here in Puerto Rico helping children and have branched to 29 countries around the world. We want the children to be Champions of their lives, of their daily life. Let them be as the boxers that join us today; Champions of society and an example for others. To continue their education and use their skills through sports to solidify all disciplines,” Valcárcel commented. “Our commitment is resolute, and we will continue to provide continuous support for these children.”

World Champion, José ‘Sniper’ Pedraza, challengers Emmanuel ‘Manny the sensational’ Rodriguez, King ‘El Maestro’ Ojeda, Jesus Rojas, Víctor Bisbal and José ‘Chelo’ González, as well as former World Champions, Angel ‘Cholo’ Espada, Alex “El Nene” Sanchez and Román ‘Rocky’ Martínez were also eager participants at the event.

Also present was the young female boxer, Kiria Tapia from Puerto Rico, Female Gold Medalist from the Central American Games held in Veracruz, Mexico.

Boxing prospects John Karl Sosa, Alberto Mercado, Enrique ‘Kikín’ Collazo, Luis ‘Zurdo’ Rosario, Marcos ‘Marquitos’ Osorio, Eliezer ‘Waa’ González, Anthony Román, amateur Joshua ‘Kiko’ Ortiz, George Jiménez, John Anthony Correa and Lady Mercedes Alicea also participated of the event.

“For me it is a great privilege to be a part of this WBO event, together with Sor Isolina Ferré’s staff. It’s a blessing to share in the joy of these children while instilling them with motivation, “said José ‘Sniper’ Pedraza.

WBO Latino Bantamweight champion Emmanuel ‘Manny the sensational’ Rodriguez said: “To be a participant in this awesome WBO activity is the best thing that has happened to me. Carrying the message that we can stay on the right track and set an example to the children is a great satisfaction.”

Gold Medalist Kiria Tapia said, “I always participate in WBO activities. We have to give back and share the blessings that our Lord showers us with.”

Besides Valcárcel and the Boxers, the Trainers Luis Espada, Orlando Piñero, Álex Caraballo, José García, Margaro Cruz, Jesús ‘Chuito’ Ayala, Juan ‘Golo’ Gómez and Jesús Ortiz, Officials Kenny Bayless, José H. Rivera, Gerardo Martínez, Roberto Ramirez Jr., Ramón Peña, César Ramos, Hernando Steidel, Luis Ruiz and Promoters Javier Bustillo, Peter Rivera and Juan Orengo were present.

The WBO and the Puerto Rican boxers shared in a party atmosphere with all the families present, donating to the Center’s children 100 bicycles, board games, toys and sport equipment.

WBO Executives Luis Pérez, José Izquierdo, Adolfo Flores Monge, Manuel Marrero Hueca, Alberto Rodríguez and Genaro Rodríguez, accompanied the President wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas.

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By David Finger \ Photos: Joel A. Colon/WBO\

The third and final day of the 27th annual WBO Convention kicked off yesterday morning, and as anticipated, the open forum of the championship and ratings committees was not without fireworks. The day began with a short video presentation of the charitable work done by both the WBO and numerous WBO champions to promote the WBO “Kids Drug Free” program.

The second order of business came when Vice President John Duggan proposed a resolution that clarified that the position of “vice president of the China Zone” is now vacant and that the China commission is not to use any trademarks or logos. The resolution would also transfer this over to the Asia Pacific region. The resolution would be passed unanimously.

There then followed a brief discussion of the 2015 budget and a proposed amendment to the budget, which passed as well. Following this budget discussion, Joe Cortez briefly spoke of the role of instant replay in Nevada. “Instant replay in Nevada has been in play for two years,” Cortez said, “but it hasn’t been used.” Cortez noted that in Nevada only a referee has the discretion to overturn his or her decision, before adding that the “door was open” to any adjustments that needed to be made in regards to the rule as it stands in Nevada.

From there WBO junior welterweight champion Chris Algieri spoke of the importance of being a role model as a champion.

“Being a champion is a world wide title,” Algieri said, “there are a lot of eyes on you. A lot of young eyes. As a champion you want to present yourself to the world as a champion. As a role model.” Algieri was subsequently presented the WBO Gordy Volkman Man of the Year Award for Outstanding Community Service.

Following the presentation of the Gordy Volkman Award to Algieri, the discussion then turned to where to host the 2015 WBO Convention. Although the Philippines had been the early front runner, having been named in 2013 as the location of the 2015 convention, it was passed over for Florida. Citing concerns over the recent typhoon in the Philippines, and the impact that had on the feasibility of hosting the event there, President Valcarcel accepted a recommendation for the 2015 WBO Convention to be held in Orlando, Florida. Puerto Rico was named as a backup location. President Valcarcel, however, indicated a strong desire to eventually have the WBO convention in the Philippines in the near future.

A brief video fallowed in which highlights of the 2013 WBO Convention in Budapest was shown. Heavyweight Charles Martin was awarded the NABO fighter of the year award at that time as well as several other special recognition awards to journalist Pedro Fernandez, Ulf Steinforth, and Wladimir Klitschko. Wilfried Sauerland was given an award after having been named “European Promoter of the Year” as well.

From there the ever contentious championship and ratings committee kicked off with their session.

This started in the mini-flyweight division, where Japanese matchmaker Ulysses Sato pushed to have his fighter enter the WBO rankings.

There were no requests at junior flyweight and only one at flyweight (to move an undefeated European champion into the WBO ranks). However, the relative lack of controversy in the lowest weight classes was not a harbinger of what would follow, as the discussions became more intensive starting with the junior bantamweight division. Representatives for #5 ranked Paul Butler requested a move to #1 or, in the alternative, to have the winner of the Paul Butler-Jamie Conlan fight be named the mandatory challenger. Conlan is ranked #7 by the WBO. Although Frank Warren’s request to have the winner of the Butler-Conlan fight named “interim champion” was denied, the committee and President Valcarcel did agree to name the winner of that fight as mandatory challenger for champion Omar Narvaez.

At bantamweight several promoters made arguments to have their fighters move into the top ten, most notably #13 ranked Pungluang Sor Sinyu and #14 ranked Lee Haskins.

At junior featherweight the executive committee did acknowledge the difficulties that Guillermo Rigondeaux was having finding opponents willing to take him on. Hedi Taouab Mohammed initially pushed to have his fighter, #4 ranked Zsolt Bedak, move up in the rankings before President Valcarcel inquired about a possible matchup between Bedak and #2 ranked Genesis Servania.

At featherweight a compelling argument was put forth by representatives of King Sports to have undefeated Colombian banger Miguel Marriaga move into the top ten. A proposed fight between #8 ranked British bomber Mark McCollough and #5 ranked Polish fighter Kamil Laszczyk was also discussed, as well as the possibility of the winner of that fight moving up into the top four. Ulysses Sato made a push to have Filipino Mark Gil Melligen, the #13 ranked WBO Oriental champion, move into the top ten.

A familiar name was brought up in the junior lightweight discussions as Main Events pushed to have Edner Cherry return to the top ten on the basis of his nine fight winning streak. President Valcarcel seemed open to the proposal.

At lightweight it appeared highly likely that Juan Diaz might move up from #3 to #1 after the current #1 contender, Ray Beltran, fights the WBO champion Terence Crawford. The prospect of the #1 slot opening up brought out numerous other requests, including one from representatives of #4 ranked Anthony Crolla. However, that request was immediately challenged by Frank Warren, who reminded the executive committee that Crolla “never fought anyone in the WBO top 15” before offering his fighter, #9 ranked Terry Flanagan as a strong candidate to move up.

At junior welterweight the recognition that the title may be at play in the coming months also led to a contentious and colorful discussion. Ruslan Provodnikov’s camp made an argument to have him leapfrog #1 ranked Lucas Matthysse. Several fighters had representatives push to have them move into the top ten, including Emanuel Taylor and veteran Paul Spadafora.

In the welterweight division several promoters jockeyed to have their fighters move up, with the most notable being undefeated Canadian prospect Mikael Zewski, undefeated Fredrick Lawson, and the winner of the upcoming Jeff Horn-Robson Assis fight. Horn, the WBO Oriental Champion, is ranked #11 while Assis, the WBO Latino champion, is ranked #12.

In the junior middleweight division Frank Warren pushed to have #10 ranked Liam Smith move up while representatives of #13 ranked Sirimongkol Singwancha also pushed to have the Thai based fighter move into the top ten.

In the middleweight division the biggest news came when the WBO championship and rating committee voted unanimously to name the winner of a proposed four fighter elimination as the top middleweight. The first fight, between #4 ranked Andy Lee and #1 ranked Matt Korobov, would then face the winner of the Billy Saunders –Chris Eubank fight. Saunders is currently ranked #2 while Eubanks is ranked #9. Also noteworthy in the discussions regarding the middleweight division were proposals to move Abraham Han into the world rankings as well as a push to have Willie Monroe Jr. move up in the rankings.

In the light heavyweight division several fighters received pushes to move up the rankings including #11 ranked Isidro Ranoni Prieto, who already is emerging as arguably the most popular fighter ever from Paraguay.

In the cruiserweight division a second four fighter elimination looks likely as the winner of the upcoming Tony Bellew-Nathan Cleverly fight would fight either #1 ranked Krzysztof Glowacki or #3 ranked Nuri Seferi with the winner being named the mandatory for WBO Champion Marco Huck. Bellew is currently ranked #4 while Cleverly is currently ranked #5.

In the heavyweight division the discussion revolved around Wladimir Klitschko and who his next mandatory challenger would be, as well as when he would be required to fight that fighter. After some discussion, it became apparent that the winner of the upcoming Tyson Fury-Dereck Chisora fight would be named mandatory challenger to the WBO champion, although the timetable of that mandatory defense was still not set in stone.

Rounding off the event was the gala banquet in which the family of the recently deceased Dan Goossen was presented with an honorary WBO belt. Several other awards were handed out, including WBO Promoter of the year (Bob Arum), WBO Fight of the year (Crawford-Gamboa), WHO female fighter of the year (Carolina Duer), WBO fighter of the year (Sergey Kovalev), Spanish Network of the year (Telemundo), and an award to Vasyl Lomachenko, who was given an award for being the WBO champion with the brightest future. Rounding off the gala banquet was a touching and moving ceremony where both Joe Calzaghe and Oscar De La Hoya were awarded lifetime champion awards by the WBO. Both Calzage and De La Hoya gave moving speeches about their ties to the WBO, and how important the WBO belt had meant to them as fighters.

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http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/giant-wbo-2014-convention-day-three-report-266898

wboconvday1-680By David Finger \ Photos: Joel Colon/WBO

The World Boxing Organization 27th Annual Convention kicked off in full force this morning at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas as members from around the world introduced themselves and we subsequently treated to a video presentation highlighting last year’s convention in Budapest. The first order of business for the executive committee was the Championship Committee report, which highlighted the strong position of the WBO in regards to participating in championship fights. In 2011-2012 the WBO made a strong statement to the boxing world as they had an impressive 38 championship fights. However, as that number dipped to 32 in 2012-2013, the WBO was keen on making a strong statement and to bounce back. The Championship Committee was happy to report that the WBO more than exceeded expectations here.

“This year we came back fierce and strong,” commented Luis Batista Salas, chairman of the Championship Committee. “We came back with 40 championship fights. We had more championship fights than the other organizations together.” Batista Salas also commented on the growth, and strength, of WBO Women’s boxing. “We have 25 champions in the female division, and we only began three years ago with female championship fights.”

Perhaps most noteworthy for the Championship Committee was the prominent role that mandatory defenses played in WBO championship fights. “Mandatory fights are something we take very seriously,” Batista Salas added, “(The WBO) had 32 mandatory fights! This is also a record. That is also something to be proud of.”

From there President Valcarcel announced that the President’s Report would be postponed until after lunch to allow him to speak at length about some issues, including his planned announcement for the second day of the convention, in which the WBO will petition Senator John McCain and the ABC to propose amendments to the Muhammad Ali Act, proposals that would strengthen the bill and impose harsher penalties for violations. He then took a jab at the other organizations, and in particular the recent summit of boxing organizations in Cancun, Mexico that was hosted by the WBC.

“I wasn’t there to waste time in Cancun for some public relations stunt where nothing gets done,” Valcarcel said to the Executive Committee, “there were two of them in the past and nothing got done. We didn’t intend to go and waste our time.”

Valcarcel indicated a desire to continue working with local commissions and the ABC to promote safety and proposed rule changes, noting that local laws will always trump the WBO rules, and therefore it was important to work closely with these commissions. He also added that he will be meeting with the chairman of the IBF tomorrow, as the chairman will be visiting with the WBO in Las Vegas.

The Grievance Committee report followed, and in what could considered a “short and sweet” summary, the Grievance Committee chairman Alberto Rodriguez was happy to announce that there were no complaints submitted to the committee in 2014. He then discussed the process for a party to submit to the grievance committee.

A short video followed featuring WBO women’s bantamweight champion Carolina Duer, followed by Ms. Duer thanking the WBO and expressing her appreciation for the WBO. “Since I’ve been a world champion I’ve always been only a WBO champion,” Duer said to the executive committee, “I am very proud to represent this organization.”

The next order of business was the regional vice presidents report, starting with Istvan “Koko” Kovacs and WBO Europe. Kovacs was pleased to report a very successful year for the WBO Europe. “We had the pleasure to organize the second WBO congress (in Budapest) in 2013 and according to the feedback and your comments, it was very successful. Already after the 2009 (WBO Congress) we saw an increase in the nonetheless already significant activities of WBO Europe. But I must admit that I did not expect to have such extraordinary accomplishments (in 2014).”

WBO Europe increased overall, and although WBO International saw a slight decrease, much of that was attributed to tighter restrictions and higher standards. “We tightened the requirements for the belt,” Kovacs said, “we had less fights but there is higher prestige to the belt.”

However, any drop in activity to WBO International was more than made up by the increase in activity from the WBO European titles. It went from 11 fights in 2013 to 27 in 2014. The number of WBO regional titles in Europe nearly doubled from 29 in 2013 to 53 in 2014, Kovacs then discussed the increase in activity across the board for the WBO in Europe, citing the increased number of fights from the WBO Youth (from 4 to 9) and WBO female championships (from 5 to 9). In 2014 there were also 10 WBO championship fights in Europe, which was the same number as in 2013.

Kovacs then discussed the overall history of the WBO European title since 2009, noting that they have had 92 championship fights, with 54 champions, of which 13 would go on to fight for the title, and of which 3 world champions would emerge. Kovacs then discussed the financial situation with WBO Europe, noting that since 2009 the WBO Europe brought in $95,600 for the WBO in 2014 alone, thus making it the most successful year ever for WBO Europe. Since 2009 WBO Europe has collected over $325,000 in sanctioning fees for the WBO. Kovacs then took a few moments to discuss the ways in which WBO Europe took part in the WBO Kids Drug Free program.

From there WBO Asia Pacific Vice President Leon Panoncillo took the floor to discuss both the state of boxing in Asia and in Africa.

“Asia Pacific has shown positive growth, with 17 sanctioned fights since last year’s convention,” Panoncillo said. He also added that WBO Asia Pacific brought in $28,011.57 in revenue since the last convention and that he expected to sanction five more fights before the end of the year.

He then discussed the WBO Oriental title, adding that since the last convention he sanctioned 30 Oriental Championship matches, collecting a total of $44,250 in revenue since the last convention. The impressive increase in activity marked a dramatic rise in activity for the WBO Oriental title, making 2014 one of the most successful years in the history of WBO Oriental and in striking range of being the most successful year ever for the title. Panoncillo then went on to discuss the WBO Africa, noting that WBO Africa has sanctioned 16 total championship fights since the last convention and that it has raised $21,400 in revenue. Panoncillo then closed out with a discussion of the state of affairs with WBO Asia Pacific Youth, noting that the WBO sanctioned three youth titles and subsequently raised $2,525 in revenue for the WBO since the last convention.

From there WBO first vice president John Duggan discussed the China Zone development, and his hopes to see the WBO continue to grow in the region.

After Duggan’s discussion of China the WBO handed out several awards, with Marco Huck being the most notable. Huck was recently named a WBO Super Champion, and although he did not have a Super Championship belt yet, he was awarded a plague commemorating his accomplishment.

“This is a very rare and great honor,” Huck said after receiving the award, “I am very proud to be named Super Champion after 13 title defenses.”Also given awards were Osvaldo Rivero, who was named Latin America promoter of the year by the WBO. Also given an award was Patrick Teixeira, who was awarded the OMB Latino Champion of the year.

From there Jorge Molina presented his report on WBO Latino, noting that he still embraced the philosophy that “the sky’s the limit” when considering the future of the organization. Since the last convention, Molina noted that the WBO has sanctioned 30 championship fights, an increase from 25 in 2013. Of those 30 fights, 10 were held in Argentina, 10 were held in Brazil, six were held in the United States, 3 were held in Mexico, and 1 was held in Puerto Rico. Five fights were in the welterweight division, five were in the junior bantamweight division, and four were in the junior middleweight division. Molina then discussed the proud history of the OMB Latino championship, noting that the WBO Latino held an astounding 526 title fights since 1996. Of those who fought for the WBO Latino title, 134 would go on to fight for the world title, while 41 would go on to win world championships. Molina then added that since the last convention three OMB Latino Champions have gone on to win world titles as well. Molina then closed out with a video presentation that highlighted some of the greatest moments of WBO Latino, highlighting some legendary champions like Michael Carbajal and Ener Julio.

The executive committee took a short recess for lunch, and upon returning from lunch, resumed with the treasurer’s report. WBO CPA Jaime Ceballero advised that the strength of the WBO financial situation, adding that the WBO had $1,242,724 in savings, an increase in revenue of 302%. The increase in revenue was the largest ever in the history of the WBO. He then added that the WBO accounts included nearly $2,000,000 when added with the accounts of all of the regional organizations. He then added that, if the WBO were to pay off all of their debts today, they would still hold in excess of a million dollars. The positive report prompted President Valcarcel to ask if the WBO could spend more money on the WBO Kids Drug Free program. Unfortunately there was one area where regional organization in which WBO didn’t have tremendous success initially in 2014: the NABO.

The NABO had recently changed leadership in February of 2014 after reporting substantial losses in 2013 and early 2014. New NABO Vice President Jose Izquierdo, however, had done much to turn that ship around since taking over. One area of strength was the increase in fights on “important” cards such as the Manny Pacquiao-Timothy Bradley PPV card, or the recent Floyd Mayweather-Marcos Maidana PPV in 2014. Since taking over the helm at NABO, Izquierdo has sanctioned 12 NABO title fights and 14 Inter-Continental title fights, helping fuel a dramatic turnaround for the NABO financially.

“There is a dramatic decrease in the amount owed,” Izquierdo said, “over 46% decrease. And a 790% increase for cash on hand.”

Izquierdo has taken a much more inclusive approach to spearhead the NABO’s sudden resurgence. “I’ve called local commissions to have them recommend fighters to be considered and become part of the rankings of the NABO,” Izquierdo said.

The positive changes in the direction of the NABO prompted vice president Luis Batista Salas to sing Izquierdo’s praises during his presentation. “He has changed the face of the NABO,” Batista Salas said of Izquierdo.

From there President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel presented the WBO President’s Report, and as expected, he took time to again discuss a topic that has become his cause belle: the proliferation of titles in boxing. Valcarcel first commended Jose Izquierdo on scoring a knockout with WBO’s presence on social media like Facebook.com and Twitter. Noting how WBO’s Facebook page went from 7,000 followers to 334,996 followers in only one year, he commended Izquierdo for helping turn WBO boxing into one of the most popular boxing pages on the internet.

“It is the fastest way to get resolutions out and give the public an outlet (to communicate with us).” Valcarcel said.

Valcarcel then spoke time to speak about the WBO champions, noting that “the WBO is very lucky, because we have the money makers. We have the best champions around the world.”

He then took a jab at a rival organization, noting that former WBO middleweight champion Peter Quillin was making more money in his title defenses than a rival organizations champion who had become a regular fixture on television. He also noted that at the bantamweight weight class, the WBO recently received a $600,000 purse bid from a promoter for a title fight and that Marco Huck is highly successful in the cruiserweight division, earning tremendous paydays as a cruiserweight. Valcarcel then took another jab at the rival organizations and the proliferation of numerous “copper, platinum, silver, and aluminum” titles.

“We have the WBO (world) champion and that’s it! We call Klitschko a Super Champion and that’s it. We don’t have anyone (other champion) behind him. I want to be polite, but I have to speak the truth. Who cares about Alex Povetkin? The champion is Klitschko!”

Explaining the difference between the WBO and some of the other sanctioning organizations in how they recognize champions.

“We have regional titles, but others, they have 3, 4, 5 titles.” Valcarcel added. “We only have one Latino Champion…that means the WBO Latino title carries prestige. We want to keep it that way. We don’t want to have a bunch of titles.”

From there discussions turned to recent litigation involving the WBO, including a case in Puerto Rico that threatens the tax-exempt status of the WBO.

“Our financial success has attracted the attention of inland revenue in Puerto Rico,” WBOs legal counsel associated with the case told the commission, “due to new tax laws in Puerto Rico and the recession in Puerto Rico, and the degradation of Puerto Rican bonds. Puerto Rico has imposed further taxes to cover this.”

Although the WBO is a recognized non-profit according to the United States federal government, the government of Puerto Rico has refused to give full faith and credit to this designation, and their decision had initially been upheld by the Puerto Rican court of appeals. Although the Supreme Court of Puerto Rico initially refused to hear the case, the WBO remained confident that they still had a strong appeal.

Jose Izquierdo made a motion to give the President the authority to unilaterally name a committee to take on this issue at his discretion, a motion that was passed unanimously.

The second issue discussed was the issue of a trademark registration in Europe, and a fraudulent company that sent an unsolicited letter demanding payment to “register” the WBO trademark. This letter was disregarded when the WBO European Council assured the executive committee that the WBO trademarks are registered for the next several years.

Closing out the first day of the meeting, President Valcarcel again discussed the issue of the WBO’s refusal to take part in the joint summit of boxing sanctioning organizations held in Cancun earlier this year.

“We can work with other commissioners regarding safety,” Valcarcel said, “that doesn’t mean we have to meet up (with rival organizations) for it. I never heard of Coca-Cola and Pepsi having a meeting together. You have your own flavor, we don’t have to meet anyone, we don’t have to go anywhere because we are very busy. We are busy working with kids, enhancing the image of the sport. We had a meeting in 2011 and we talked about the same issues. We are doing much more than other organizations. Did you hear of other organizations doing as much for kids?”

WBO European member Markus Aslani then chimed in, “We stick to our rules and we don’t take part in the inflation of titles.”

“I think the main problem in boxing is that you have more than one champion in each division,” Valcarcel added.

“One organization that shall remain unnamed had 41 champions in 17 weight classes,” Jose Izquerdo added.

“We have the support of the most respected boxing writers of the world,” Valcarcel added, “I think in boxing, honesty is the best policy. If we are recognized as the honest organization, we are going to have success.”

From there President Valcarcel added that he will discuss proposals to Senator John McCain and Harry Reid in regards to amendments to the Muhammad Ali Act, and that the WBO would “not tolerate corruption in its ranks.”

Rounding off the opening day was a presentation on the still developing China Zone, which discussed its plans for 2015. The event closed off with a cocktail party that evening, and is set to resume tomorrow at 8:30 AM.

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http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/giant-wbo-2014-convention-day-one-report-266381

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By David Finger –

For over 18 years, WBO President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel took a very different approach to boxing than many other people in the sport of boxing. He was very much a “fly under the radar” sort of executive and through his management the WBO seemed keen on avoiding the controversy and the scandals that at times plagued the sport, with the WBO even sporting an undefeated record in litigation over the course of over 25 years. The WBO President didn’t seem like the type to relish the spotlight or to point fingers, which makes this year so…interesting.

It may not capture the same amount of attention as Floyd Mayweather’s very public feud with rapper 50 Cent, but a recent war of words has emerged between the WBO and the other sanctioning organizations (in particular the WBC) that has many boxing insiders wondering if the status quo has just been shot out of the water. Valcarcel is no longer content to sit back and take the quiet approach: he is making it abundantly clear what he thinks about the proliferation of champions and championship belts in the WBA and WBC and he is taking to social media to make his case.

It all started in June, when the WBC hosted a Boxing Summit in Cancun, a rare opportunity for the presidents of all of the sanctioning organizations to come together to discuss several proposed changes in the sport, including things like PED testing and the standardization of division names. Notably absent was Valcarcel, who then went on social media to vent his frustration over something that wasn’t up for discussion: the proliferation of lesser belts like the WBC Silver Championship belt.

“I find it odd that my friends at the summit did not discuss the elimination of aluminum, copper, silver, interim, recess & emeritus titles,” Valcarcel tweeted that month, a clear jab at the WBC and its Silver Championship.

The jab prompted a sharp rebuke from WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman, who was quoted by ESPN Deportes as saying that Valcarcel’s attitude was “very low” before adding “I thought he was a person of greater class.”

Rather than shy away, Valcarcel expanded his hit list to include the WBA, chiding them just last week on Facebook for their excessive number of world champions.

“Our friends at the World Boxing Association / Asociación Mundial de Boxeo (WBA) have 38 champions in 17 weight divisions,” Valcarcel wrote on the WBO’s Facebook page on August 15th, “the World Boxing Organization only recognizes the highest one for unification purposes. In the case of the middleweight division we recognize Gennady Golovkin.”

Valcarcel however is finding support from a fair number of boxing fans who have long clamored for the very same thing: less champions and more unification fight. It has been a cause that seemed to fall on deaf ears for decades, but right now it seems that the pro-unification camp now has a very influential spokesperson in Valcarcel. Who knows, maybe this is the day that the winds of change blow across the sport of boxing and we finally see an era where unification fights are the norm and not the exception. Valcarcel took some time to talk with Fightnews about the WBO Kid’s Drug Free program, the upcoming WBO Convention in Las Vegas, and the war of words between the WBO and the other sanctioning organizations in recent months.

Fightnews: Mr. President, thank you for taking time to speak with us today. What are some of the things the WBO will be discussing during the upcoming 27th Annual Convention in Las Vegas?

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel: We are going to talk about the ABC seminars for judges and referees. And also we have seminars planned for supervisors. That’s the main concern of the WBO in the convention. They will need top certification (from the ABC). Also, we are going to have a discussion about weigh-in procedures. We may be discussing possible changes in those procedures. Also, during the convention we will talk about (implementing) replay in boxing for different circumstances. We want to make boxing, and the decisions, more accurate. Also we plan to work with commission in the USA in relation to the sanctioning organizations compliance according to the (local) laws. We are going to have ratings and sanctioning committee together and discuss title bouts; for male and female champions. And at the end we are going to recognize our champions and we will commemorate Oscar De La Hoya and Joe Calzaghe, two Hall of Famers. Also we will deal with the different countries in which we are working with the kids, to help the kids in their teens and to keep them in school. We are in 25 countries around the world.

Fightnews: That is a good segue into my next question. What are the developments in regards to the WBO Kid’s Drug Free Program?

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel: We are working different teams and different associations to work with the kids. We plan ways to help the kids directly. Sometimes they need equipment to practice in the gym. Sometimes they need school supplies like books, notebooks, pencils. Sometimes they need help. Now we donate about $60 per kid to help kids obtain school items here in Puerto Rico. Our goal is to keep all the kids we bring to the gym in school and to make sure they stay motivated. To make sure they recognize that they need to stay in school and can stay in the gym at the same time. Discipline and education. Also we work with different associations with the handicap, to motivate them and give them a role model. We want to keep the kids motivated. We want to bring our champions to the convention, so that they know that when they become champions they have a responsibility to the kids as well. Most of the champions came from poor neighborhoods. They had to fight against drugs…against poverty. They didn’t have the support. They only had a mom, who had to be a father and mother. We want those champions to work with the kids all around the world.

Fightnews: What are some of the more exciting developments this year with the WBO?

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel: If you talk about boxing, we have champions who are making real money and exiting fans. But if you are talking about the whole purpose of WBO, it is that we are improving and we have more participants with the WBO Kids Drug Free Program. We are giving more money to the program all over the world and we made a difference. You can check with others, when you see WBO every week we are working with kids all over the world. Check our webpage and you can see how we are working with kids all over the world. If you check the others, they have boxing. But I can say WBO is more than just boxing. We have a commitment with kids all around the world.

Fightnews: This is another good segue into my next question. You mentioned “the others” here, which we can assume is in reference to the other sanctioning organizations. To many boxing insiders, it appears that in the last year something of a rivalry emerged between the WBO and the other sanctioning organizations. The WBO was notably absent from a recent boxing summit hosted in Cancun back in June, in which the Presidents of the WBA, WBC, and IBF met to discuss some changes and uniformed policies regarding the sport. You raised some eyebrows afterwards when you criticized the proliferation of belts in the other organizations. Just last week on Facebook you took a jab at the WBA, criticizing the fact that they have 38 champions in 17 weight classes. Would you care to comment on this growing war of words between the WBO and the other sanctioning organizations?

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel: We are against interim championships. We are against three champions in one division. We are against having super champions and regular champions. Now we do have a few “super champions” but this is to (allow them to) work with TV. Klitschko is a super champion. That is the way he can fight with the right opponent that people will enjoy. We also have Manny Pacquiao. All the fans know Manny all over the world. This (super championship) only gives them more time to work with their mandatory. They fight the right guy and the right guy for TV, and the guy people want to see on TV. For that point of view with have the super champion, but we don’t have another champion and a super champion! We are also against copper, aluminum, silver championships and all those types of belts. Now we have international champions since sometimes you have a good fighter from one continent, so this is an intercontinental type of belt.

But the reason we didn’t show in Mexico is that it was inconsequential. You go, the media is there, but then nothing happens. Because you still have three champions and a bunch of aluminum and copper champions. Regardless of my relationship, we are talking about different concepts. We are against that concept and they promote the concept of three champions in one division and the proliferation of titles in the sport.

Fightnews: So can we confirm that the WBO is in favor of unification fights between the sanctioning organizations?

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel: Yes. When a champion wants to unify a title that is fine, and that is also good for boxing when we have unified champions. We have different champions who unified as well, we have three or four unified champions. We also have female champions who unified. It is good for boxing and it is something fans want to see. But because we are different sanctioning organization we end up with more champions. But I don’t have to go to Mexico to say that in public. For all these years I have been president of the WBO that has been my position.

Fightnews: So do you feel the other organizations discourage unification fights?

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel: They didn’t want their champions to unify. You remember what they (the WBC) said to Canello Alvarez when he became the WBA champion? (Author’s Note: Prior to the Saul Alvarez-Austin Trout light middleweight unification fight the WBC announced that the winner would have to choose one title or the other and would not recognize a unified champion).

Fightnews: The WBO is making major inroads in Africa and in particular Asia. What do you attribute that expansion to and what are the WBOs long term plans regarding Asia and Africa?

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel: Because we start working with different fighters regardless of whom the promoter was. We have the right people to work in that country. In Asia we have Leon Panoncello working with the organization, to work with boxing and also the different kids. We use the WBO Kids Drug Free program to keep those people in the gym and then later they become fighters and they have the opportunity to be regular champions. We have the right people in Asia and Africa. We try to influence different commissions as well, not just with boxing but with WBO Kids as well.

Fightnews: Any final words Mr. President?

Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel: We will invite anyone who wants to show up at the convention as we discuss all the issues in front of the press and the public. We don’t do anything behind closed doors.

http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/interview-wbo-president-paco-valcarcel-258321

IMG_2894The Tanzania’s Depute Permanent Secretary For the Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture and Sports Prof. Elisante Ole Gabriel with children participating in the WBO’s Kids Drug Free Program in Tanzania – Africa

On March 28, 2014, was a great success reaching out to children at Tanzania Africa by WBO Kids Drug Free donating school bags, back packs goodies, T-shirts and boxing Gloves.  Leon Panoncillo, Jr., Executive Vice President for Asia,  thanks Africa Tanzania Boxing Official, Mr. Emmanuel Mlundwa and Tanzania Promoter, Mr. Ally Mwazoa for coordinating it with their Government.

IMG_2794The former World Boxing Super Welterweight champion Rashid Matumla (wearing a cap on the left) and Promoter Ally Mwazoa  (wearing a red T-shirt) with the children reached by the World Boxing Organization (WBO’s Kids Drug Free Program at the PTA Hall, Dares Salaam, Tanzania, Africa.

IMG_2886Emmanuel Mlundwa holds the mitts for Zainabu ‘Ikota’ Mhamila, one of the children reached by the WBO Kids Drug Free Program, to the appreciation of Prof. Elisante Ole Gabriel (The Tanzania’s Depute Permanent Secretary For the Ministry of Information, Youth, Culture and Sports)

IMG_2898Zainabu ‘Ikota’ Mhamila one of the children reached by the WBO Kids Drug Free Program

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Phitak Canthajun – Samutprakarn, Thailand –

Another great effort of the World Boxing Organization lead by no less then the President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel himself in coordinating another successful Drug Free program for the Youth of Samutprakarn province at Thailand.

The World Boxing Organization again had put a lot of effort in coordinating with Thailand Tourism and Sports Office of Samutprakarn Province to reach out to children near the boarders of Thailand that had been troublesome issues of Youth getting involved with wrongful drug.

The boxing organization Executive Vice President for Asia Mr. Leon P. Panoncillo, Jr. in coordination with Thailand WBO representative Mr. Sawaeng Thaweekoon have worked on summer workshop project involving getting knowledge of wrong drugs in the area, educating them through lectures.

With the week long activities, 30 students boys and girls appreciated the week of enjoyable games and sports activities including educational seminar lectures for the Youth of understanding the causes and harm drugs may inflect if they intend to use it.

“The goal of this project is reaching out to the Youth of Samutprakarn and educating them before its too late, informed WBO Thailand Representative Mr. Sawaeng Thaweekoon”.

The organizers scheduled a week of fun and games during their stay and WBO also donated to children WBO Drug Free T-shirts, school scholarship for the Youth, variety of daily food for children and educational lectures during their Drug Free week by volunteer staff of the Institute of Physical Education Bangkok.

We would like to thank World Boxing Organization President Francisco Valcarcel, WBO Vice President for Asia Leon Panoncillo, WBO Thailand representative Mr. Sawaeng Thaweekoon for organizing a week filled with fun and games.

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Por:  Aleudi Rosario Cotto

Fotos: Joel Colón

SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO- La Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB) se unió a la Campeona Panamericana Kiria Tapia en su día de Navidad para los niños del residencial Monte Hatillo en la tarde del domingo, 15 de diciembre, como parte de su exitoso programa “Kids Drug Free”.

En la actividad, que realiza la medallista de oro de los Juegos Panamericanos de 2011 Kiria Tapia por segundo año seguido, el presidente de la OMB, Francisco “Paco” Valcárcel, dijo presente para apoyar a la joven boxeadora y auspició la actividad con Inflables de Agua, comida y obsequios para los niños del Residencial. Además de Valcárcel, estuvo el ex campeón mundial Alfredo “Salsero” Escalera, el contendor mundial Orlando “Fenómeno” Cruz, así como entrenadores y figuras del boxeo.

De parte de la OMB estuvieron los árbitros José H. Rivera y Genaro “Gino” Rodríguez, así como los miembros del Comité Ejecutivo de la entidad Adolfo Flores Monge y Alberto Rodríguez.

NARANJITO, PUERTO RICO- La Organización Mundial de Boxeo (OMB), junto al prospecto Félix “Diamante” Verdejo, el ex campeón mundial Samuel Serrano, y un grupo de peleadores llevó equipo deportivo, clínicas de boxeo y charlas motivacionales a la escuela superior Francisco Morales de Naranjito, como parte de su exitoso programa “Kids Drug Free”.

La actividad, que fue dirigida por el presidente de la OMB, Francisco “Paco” Valcárcel, y la directora de la escuela Gloria Torres, contó también con la participación del también invicto Emmanuel “Manny” Rodríguez, Carlos “Chicano” Cotto, el contendor mundial David Quijano, así como los boxeadores aficionados Celiel Castillo, Ernesto Alicea y Yavier Bonilla.

“Como siempre les decimos mantengánse en la escuela y siempre por el camino correcto, como estos muchachos que tenemos aquí, para así poder llegar a ser algo en la vida”, les dijo Valcárcel a los cientos de estudiantes presentes en la cancha de la escuela. “El boxeo es un deporte como cualquier otro, así que si no practican boxeo háganlo en otro deporte, pero siempre obedeciendo a sus padres, maestros y sus mayores”.

La OMB, junto a los peleadores, le hizo entrega al maestro de Educación Física de la escuela, José Rivera, varias pelotas de voleibol, de  baloncesto, de sóftbol, equipo de béisbol y de entrenamiento, así como otros juegos.

“Muchas gracias a la OMB porque en realidad nos han brindado algo que nos hacía mucha falta, ya que no teníamos nada en esta escuela. Gracias por el equipo y por la visita de estos deportistas”, manifestó Rivera.

Por su parte, Verdejo exhortó a los jóvenes a mantenerse alejados de los problemas y a “buscar siempre de Dios y ser perseverantes en la vida, que así se pueden lograr las cosas”.

Los púgiles también brindaron demostraciones de boxeo, con Serrano haciendo demostración de guanteleta con Quijano, el también entrenador Ricky Márquez haciendo lo propio con Manny Rodríguez, así como Félix Pagán Pintor con varios estudiantes de la escuela. Rodríguez y Quijano se enfrentarán el sábado, 21 de diciembre en el coliseo Cosme Beitía de Cataño.

Al final de la actividad, los estudiantes aprovecharon para tomarse fotografías y obtener autógrafos de los boxeadores presentes.

También dijeron presente los árbitros Genaro “Gino” Rodríguez y José H. Rivera, la jueza Nishia Ramos, el manejador Juan Orengo, y de parte de la OMB Adolfo Flores Monge y José Izquierdo.

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Story and photos by David Finger

The 26th Annual WBO Congress officially kicked off Tuesday morning at the InterContinental Hotel in downtown Budapest as boxing insiders from around the world came to celebrate some of the exciting developments in the World Boxing Organization in 2013. The event kicked off with roll call, followed by an invocation. After approving the prior minutes from the 2012 Convention, the congress moved forward with the regional Vice President’s reports. Starting off was Vice President Mark Reels, who did reports from the NABO and the WBO Intercontinental. Although the NABO and the WBO Intercontinental both saw a slight drop in activity it still was a productive and profitable year for the regional organizations.

The NABO held an impressive 12 championship fights (with revenue of $46,760) while the Intercontinental held 20 championship fights (with a revenue of $68,560). Reels also discussed the success of the WBO in developing world class fighters. Reels discussed how the NABO has seen 54 of the 262 fighters who fought for the belt subsequently fight for the WBO title. Although Reels downplayed the statistic, expressing a desire to see that number rise, it nonetheless impressed many at the table, with President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel calling it “impressive.”

“Our issue is with quality over quantity,” Reels said during his presentation, “we have criteria for a fighter who is able to fight for a title.” Reels, however, did want to see some leniency on the issue of fighters getting sanctioned for NABO and WBO InterContinental fights, noting some good fighters who technically fell short of the high standards set by the WBO in regards to qualifications. President Valcarcel expressed concern over the idea.

Still, with all 15 NABO championship fights since last year’s convention being televised by a major TV network, Reels had an impressive year by nearly any standard. “As far as activity levels go, it is low,” Reels added, “but we really are recognized the world over.” Reels then discussed the revenue of the Intercontinental, confirming that the WBO Intercontinental collected over $40,000 of the $68,560 income in 2013.

From there Vice President Istvan “Koko” Kovacs presented his report on the WBO Europe. Although he admitted it was a “quiet year” he still was happy to announce that it Iwas still a productive year for the European continent. There were 13 Intercontinental title fights, with 9 taking place in Europe. There were also 14 International title fights, with 9 taking place in Europe, as well as 11 WBO European title fights. There were 6 WBO Youth title fights, with 4 taking place in Europe, 21 female title fights, with 5 taking place in Europe, and 32 world title fights with 10 taking place in Europe. Overall the WBO had 29 fights in Europe, a drop from 38 the previous year. WBO Europe’s revenue in 2013 was $40,500. Kovacs also commented on the previous issue with the British Boxing Board, commenting on how the WBO no longer has any problems working with the BBB. The BBB refused to recognize the WBO in previous years.

Next was Vice President Jorge Molina’s report on the WBO Latino. Molina admitted it had been a “hard year” for the Latino, with “only 25 Latino title fights in 10 months.” Still, Molina was able to point to the WBO Latino’s proud tradition and was able to proudly say that the WBO Latino continued that tradition in 2013. “#7 WBO Latino Champions became world champions,” Molina said, “and four of our WBO Latino champions have become world title holders (this year).” The WBO Latino raised $26,000 in the 25 title fights since the last convention, with 13 planned title fights to round out the year.

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From there a short video on the WBO’s widely successful WBO Kids Drug Free program was shown.

Next was Andrew Smalle’s WBO Africa regional report. Smalle admitted it was a slow year, with 7 WBO Africa fights since the last convention. From November of 2012 to December of 2012 there were three title fights, with revenue of $5,050. From January of 2013 to August of 2013 there were 4 WBO Africa title fights with revenue of $4,800. However, Smalle confirmed that additional income was expected as some sponsorship allocation was expected to kick in before the end of the year. Smalle also commented on the WBO’s commitment to high standards for the quality of the fighters who compete for the WBO African belt. Smalle’s commitment to the highest standards for WBO title fights has resulted in a lower number of championship fights, but also of a growing reputation in the continent.

“It’s been a challenge but I don’t see it as a negative at all,” Smalle admitted, “it can only go up from where it’s at now. We are a young organization, and one of our proudest moments was one of our fighters winning a championship earlier this year.” Smalle noted that despite the low activity, the WBO Africa’s high standard has resulted in it being the only regional African organization that has seen all of its champions ranked in the world rankings after winning a regional belt.

Next came Leon Panoncillo’s report from WBO Asia. Similar to the other organizations WBO Asia saw a slight decline in revenue, but it has continued its commitment to quality. Since the last convention the Asia-Pacific held 14 championship fights, raising $27,700. Panoncillo also anticipated holding 10 more fights before the end of the year. The WBO Oriental title had 5 fights, with 8 more planned for the end f other year. The WBO Asia Pacific Youth title had three title fights, raising $3,750. Although Panoncillo admitted that the Youth title has “not taken off” he was optimistic that a major Filipino television network was interested in partnering up with the WBO Asia-Pacific to award a youth belt to the winner of a “Contender” like reality series involving young prizefighters in the Philippines. Panoncillo’s biggest coup came with the exciting developments of his newest title: the WBO International championship. In just one year the WBO International title has become a highly prestigious belt, with Manny Pacquiao and Brandon Rios fighting for the vacant belt in Macao on November 24th. Panoncillo confirmed that the WBO has custom made a new belt for the winner of that fight.

The next report came from Zhang Tao on the China Zone. Although the WBO China Zone held only 7 fight shows, the WBO is still making headway into the world’s largest market, and Tao informed the board that he looked forward to hosting the WBO in China. Joe Hernandez then spoke of the Cuban boxing scene, and his desire that the situation in Cuba would soon open up. “When it (Cuba) does come free, the WBO will be at the forefront.”

Markus Aslani followed with his report on female boxing in the WBO. He proudly announced that the WBO had a good year, with an emphasis on quality in regards to female championship fights.

After lunch there was a brief discussion on ratings by Luis Perez, followed by a report by Luis Bautista Salas, which not only focused on “loyalty” but also discussed the successful year of the WBO, with 54 total championship fights (33 men’s championship fights and 21 female championship fights). There was a brief discussion on the growth of the WBO in the British boxing scene.

“We have good working relations and we want to see how we can continue this in the future,” President Valcarcel said.

A discussion from representatives from the Japan Boxing Commission followed, which was a clear sign of the WBO’s success in breaking into a new market. At the last congress in Budapest in 2009 there was a controversy over the WBO’s inability to operate in Japan. The growth in Japan since then was a clear victory for the WBO as it moved forward in Japan.

Next came the legal report, in which the WBO legal representatives discussed several pending legal issues. Several issues regarding trademark registration was discussed, with several brands extended into 2018. They then followed up with a discussion on the recent litigation in Puerto Rico. Some confusion emerged in 2012 in regards to the administrative level, with the Puerto Rican Department of treasury moving forward with legal action against the WBO in regards to its tax exempt status.

“It’s confusion over what we actually do,” one of the legal advisors for the WBO said, “It’s a lack of knowledge of the working issues of the organization.” Although the WBO is confident that they will prevail, several members understood that even if they do not prevail in litigation, it will have little major impact on the WBO. If there is an issue we will simply change the way we disperse funds,” one legal advisor of the WBO said.

Rounding off Day One, WBO President Francisco “Paco” Valcarcel gave a special shout out to WBO Asia Vice President Leon Panoncillo over the impressive developments in Macao and the Philippines.

“We control Asia from A to Z,” Valcarcel said, “everything that occurring Asia is very important to us.”

Rounding off the night, boxing insiders visited the Lázár Lovaspark, where they were delighted by a traditional Hungarian horseshow as well as a traditional Hungarian dinner.

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http://www.fightnews.com/Boxing/wbo-congress-day-one-report-221703

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After two years of exceptional campaign of the Kids Drug Free Program (WBO KDF) in Indonesia, the WBO has lengthen its 3rd annual program in East Jakarta’s culture-based recreational area of Taman Mini Indonesia Indah, Denzipur 3, Cijantung, Indonesia football field. It must be recalled that the first program in January 2011 was held in the 2nd big City of Surabaya, the second program ceremony was held on April 2012 in the central City of Jakarta at the government’s TVRI studio following a WBO Asia-Pacific championship.

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The 2013 program that was held on July 21, 2013 focused on the indigent youth football players in coordination with IGN. SLAMET RIYADI FOOTBALL CLUB. WBO Asia-Pacific Board Member & Representative, Antonio M. Comia through the directives & guidance of the WBO Asia-Pacific Vice-President & Chairman Leon Panoncillo, Jr., leads the gift – giving program ceremony composed of bags with school supplies, foods & cash gift with the gracious participation and support of the Secretary General of the Indonesian Amateur Boxing Association (Pertina) , Sports Commentator & Boxing Analyst, Mr. Martinez Dos Santos.

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The Annual WBO-KDF program aimed for Drug-Free campaign among the indigent youth was spread around the continents and expanded up to the vast territories of South-East Asia and the Pacific.

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http://philboxing.com/news/story-85453.html

 

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Gold Cost Australia

WBO reaches out to Gold Coast Australia youth Mercy program to distribute supplies to the needy and being more aware of saying no to drugs. Australia World Boxing Organization Representative, Executive Board Member Danny Leigh have coordinated with Boxing Promoter Stephen Ng and Boxing trainer Chris Carden of No excuses Boxing Gym to reach out to the Gold Coast Mercy youth of Australia to help on their necessities.

Mr. Leigh informed that our WBO Organization have came on the right time of importance this year to help out on the children of need, he could see that each young person that comes through the unit has only 12 weeks that they are allowed to stay at the Mercy house and there the organization of Mercy will try to help and cater to them for their immediate emergency needs.

Australia Mercy Immediate Response Unit will assess their immediate needs, try and find a suitable placement as soon as possible. Mercy house is designed to take young person in that have just been removed from their families, just out of juvenile detention or other emergency related placement.

Due to this unfortunate nature, majority of the young person coming through the Mercy Youth program have minimal personal belongings, live out of a small suitcase of belongings and no place to go to.

With the help of the WBO Drug Free Program sponsoring Bags supplies of necessity and nutritious food guidance book with training equipments have surely bring joy and happiness to these less fortunate children of Gold Coast Australia.

 Boxing trainer Chris Carden and Stephen Ng was elated and grateful to the WBO along with the Children of Mercy who had thanked the WBO for their generosity of supplying them of these goods.

OMB y Escuela Militar14

Por primera vez en su historia La Organización Mundial de Boxeo OMB
hizo entrega de Equipo y Material Deportivo a una Academia de
Formación Militar y esto ocurrió en la Escuela Militar Capitán
General Gerardo Barrios en El Salvador.

La actividad contó con la participación desde Puerto Rico del Dr. Luis
Batista Salas Vicepresidente y Fundador de OMB, así como el Lic.  Adolfo Flores Tesorero de OMB y Veterano de la Guerra del Vietnam, así
como también con el representante de OMB en El Salvador y nuevo
miembro del Comité Directivo Lic. Oscar Canjura quienes fueron los
encargados de la entrega del equipamiento deportivo a los caballeros
cadetes de la Escuela.

La entrega fue de implementos deportivos, consistentes en guantes,
guantillas, cabeceras y sacos, a los jóvenes cadetes, los cuales se
mostraron muy agradecidos al momento de recibir la donación. En este
fue dirigido por el Coronel MARIO VICTORIO ROMANO PANAMEÑO Subdirector
de la Escuela Militar, quien represento a las autoridades y recibió
material deportivo manifestando “En la Escuela Militar siempre hemos
promovido el deporte y ahora con esta importante ayuda en material
deportivo nos sentimos comprometidos para continuar apoyando la
disciplina del Boxeo que tanta aceptación tiene en nuestro recinto”.

Por su parte el Vicepresidente de OMB, Dr. Luis Batista Salas,
manifestó: “No deja de sorprenderme lo bien que se ha desarrollado el

proceso de reconciliación en El Salvador, luego de un largo conflicto
armado. Y esto lleva aparejado una nueva visión en la formación de la
doctrina militar, en la actualidad se necesitan buenos militares
dispuestos a proteger a la patria y sobre todo a servir a la
población. Y el desarrollo del deporte es parte esa la formación
integral en la milicia”.

“Esta es la primera vez que la Organización Mundial de Boxeo hace
entrega de una donación en el mundo a un organismo de formación
militar, y me llena de mucho orgullo que esto haya ocurrido en El
Salvador. Esto es con el propósito de fomentar la disciplina de la
práctica del boxeo, pero a la vez de dar una nuevo rostro a los
cuerpos militares y mostrar un lado humano y deportivo que no muchos
conocen de la milicia”. Agregó el Lic. Oscar Canjura, miembro del
Comité Directivo de OMB.

OMB y Alcaldia Santa Tecla 03

En reunión con el Alcalde de Santa Tecla Lic. Oscar Ortiz y los miembros de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo OMB, Luis Batista Salas,Vicepresidente, Lic Adolfo Flores Tesorero y Lic. Oscar Canjura miembro del Comite Ejecutivo y Representante en El Salvado de OMB, se ha llevado a cabo la entrega Equipo Deportivo de Boxeo al edil tecleño, para la fundación del Gimnasio Municipal de Boxeo en Santa Tecla, con el que se pretende beneficiar a la niñez y juventud tecleña.

Esta entrega se hizo un gran componente e interés social, ya que OMB desarrolla este tipo de actividades dentro de su Proyecto “KIDS DRUG FREE” en apoyo a la niñez y juventud libre de drogas, proyecto que se realiza en diferentes localidades en El Salvador, así como en otras partes de mundo en las cuales OMB se encarga de hacer donativos en favor de la niñez mundial entre los que se encuentran guantes de boxeo, protectores, sacos, entre otros, así como también juguetes y útiles escolares.

“Es para mi un orgullo haber recibido un donativo de Luis Batista, Vicepresidente de la Organización Mundial de Boxeo y de Adolfo Flores. Santa Tecla es una ciudad deportiva, contamos con los escenarios idóneos para que los niños, niñas y jóvenes se desarrollen integralmente. Ahora esperamos que el boxeo se sume a este gran esfuerzo por la masificación del deporte.” Comento el Alcalde Ortiz al momento de recibir simbólicamente el material deportivo.

Por su parte el Lic. Oscar Canjura miembro Directivo de OMB manifestó “Promover el deporte es contribuir a la lucha en contra de la violencia, en OMB sabemos que un niño dentro de un gimnasio es un niño menos en las drogas o en la pandilla, por eso contribuimos de esta manera en su formación física e integral”.

Esta entrega de materiales va acompañado de un seguimiento integral para la formación de estos atletas, así como un apoyo total e incondicional en cada una de sus presentaciones y el compromiso de OMB a la promoción mundial de estas nuevas promesas deportivas.

La Organización Mundial de Boxeo tiene representación en diferentes países alrededor del mundo, al mismo tiempo es una de las organizaciones que aglutiana a una gran cantidad de campeones mundiales en diferentes categorías del boxeo tal es el caso de Wladimir Klitschko, Juan Manuel Marquez, Manny Pacquiao, entre otros . OMB que fue creada a finales de los años ochentas, es actualmente una de las organizaciones mas fuertes y con mayor reconocimiento en todo el mundo.