September 30th, 2024 – the boxing world is abuzz with the name Salvador Limas Jr., a 13-year-old prodigy from Chihuahua who has just secured his third consecutive national title at the Olympic Boxing Festival in Mexico City. With unparalleled skill and determination, Limas has emerged as one of the brightest young prospects in Mexican Olympic boxing, continuing to rack up victories while keeping his sights set on the ultimate goal—representing Mexico in the Olympic Games.
From Humble Beginnings to National Champion
Limas’ journey to becoming a national sensation began early, with his first significant victory at the 2023 Olympic Boxing Festival in León, Guanajuato. On April 29th, 2023, at just 12 years old, Limas won the 40-kilogram children’s category, making him the only champion from Chihuahua’s capital. Competing against top boxers from all over Mexico, Limas defeated his three opponents—Máximo Baltazar from Querétaro, Jonathan Hernández from Hidalgo, and David Siqueiros from Baja California—to secure his first gold medal.
“We are proud of the medal we obtained, this is thanks to Salvador’s great discipline,” commented his father and coach, Salvador Limas Sr. The young boxer trains rigorously at the Cristian Bejarano Gym in northern Chihuahua, a gym that has become a breeding ground for future champions.
A Dominant 2024 Season
Fast forward to 2024, and Limas has firmly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. His latest victory at the Olympic Boxing Festival in Mexico City, where he competed in the 46-kilogram category, solidified his position as a three-time national champion. Judges have praised Limas for his tactical brilliance, sharp movements, and unmatched discipline, which have allowed him to outclass opponents with ease.
His training regimen, overseen by his father and Mauricio González, has been key to his success. Limas’ daily routine involves three and a half hours of intense training, combined with a strict diet and focus on both education and athleticism. His dedication has resulted in a collection of gold medals that reflect his hard work and perseverance.
Future Stars Join the Fight in Oaxtepec
Chihuahua continues to develop top-tier boxing talent, with three young athletes, including Limas, representing the state at the 2023 National Boxing Championship in Oaxtepec, Morelos. This prestigious event, taking place from October 1st to 7th, will feature top fighters from all over the country.
Salvador Emilio Limas Robles, Carlos David Holguín González, and Erick Fernando Sáenz Sanabria, all training at the Cristian Bejarano Gym, are set to compete in their respective weight classes. Limas Robles, younger brother of Salvador Limas Jr., will fight in the 42-kilogram category for the Schoolchildren division, aiming for his second gold medal this year. “We are going for the gold. We’ve trained hard, and I know I have the guard, speed, and power to win,” said the young Limas.
“We are going with these three young men with a lot of potential,” said coach Mauricio González. “We were working psychologically with them, focusing on their counterattacks, which are vital in this sport. We hope that Salvador remains national champion, and that all three of our athletes bring home gold.”
Carlos David Holguín González, competing in the 52-kilogram children’s division, and Erick Fernando Sáenz Sanabria, in the 66-kilogram division, are equally determined to bring home medals. Both fighters have undergone rigorous training and psychological preparation to ensure they’re ready for the national stage.
National Boxing Stars Gather in Oaxtepec
The Olympic Boxing Festival in Oaxtepec has become a major event on the national boxing calendar, attracting over 200 participants from across Mexico. Among the largest delegations are those from Chihuahua, Jalisco, and Oaxaca, all competing for national glory and the attention of Mexico’s top boxing scouts.
In April 2024, the San Luis Potosí delegation sent eight promising fighters, including Anthony Méndez Rocha and Hugo Bernardo Santos García, to compete in this prestigious tournament. Under the tutelage of coach Saúl Rojas, these young athletes aimed to secure top finishes and attract the attention of national selectors.
At the same time, Morelos fielded a team of 14 boxers across the Youth, Junior, and Children’s divisions. With strong competition from states like Jalisco, Oaxaca, and Chihuahua, the athletes from Morelos were determined to make their mark on the national stage.
The Road to Olympic Dreams
For Limas, the Olympic Games are not just a distant dream—they are a goal that he, his coaches, and his family are actively pursuing. His recent victories at national tournaments are stepping stones on the path to global success. Next on the horizon is the 2024 Golden Gloves competition, followed by the Conade National Games, both of which are key opportunities for Limas to showcase his talents and move closer to qualifying for international competition.
“We are preparing him for the long haul,” said Limas Sr. “Every day in the gym, every fight, every training session is focused on making him the best he can be. His goal is to reach the Olympic Games, and with his discipline and drive, we know he can get there.”
At just 13 years old, Salvador Limas Jr. has already made an indelible mark on the world of Mexican boxing. With three national championships under his belt and the full support of his family, coaches, and community, the future looks incredibly bright for this young star. As he continues to climb the ranks, all eyes are on his next steps, and many believe that it’s only a matter of time before he represents Mexico on the world’s biggest stage.