Today, Mario Lopez, the iconic Latino actor and television host, received one of Hollywood’s highest honors—his very own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. At age 51, Lopez’s career spans decades, but beyond the glitz and glamor of Hollywood, he’s made a profound impact in combat sports, especially boxing, thanks to his involvement with Golden Boy Promotions and his long-standing passion for Mixed Martial Arts (MMA).
A Mexican-American Icon
Mario Lopez, born to Mexican parents in Chula Vista, California, has always been deeply connected to his Latino heritage. Raised with a strong work ethic by his mother, Elvia, Lopez’s early years were shaped by various activities, from dance to wrestling and martial arts.
“He’s the only dancing, wrestling, karate kid in Chula Vista,” Elvia proudly shared during his Walk of Fame ceremony, emphasizing how Lopez’s diverse upbringing laid the groundwork for his successful career.
Throughout his journey, Lopez has never strayed far from his roots. His rise from A.C. Slater on Saved by the Bell to a prominent television host and actor reflects his dedication to his craft and pride in his Latino heritage. As a passionate advocate for combat sports, Lopez’s involvement in the sports world has grown, not only as a fan but also as an influential figure. In 2019, he attended the “Combate Americas: Reinas“ MMA event in Los Angeles, showcasing his support for Latino athletes and Combat Sports.
Lopez’s dedication to boxing was solidified on March 6, 2015, when he joined the broadcast team for Golden Boy Promotions‘ LA Fight Club on FOX Sports 1. A longtime boxing fan, Lopez brought star power to the event, alongside play-by-play announcer Brian Custer, color commentator Paulie Malignaggi, and ringside reporter Jessica Rosales. “LA Fight Club will help fans get to know the champions of the future,” Lopez said, highlighting his excitement for the sport’s rising stars. His involvement further cemented his position as a major supporter of boxing’s future while continuing to advocate for the sport and its young talent.
- Watch Oscar Del La Hoya Vs Mario Lopez Here
Ties to Golden Boy Boxing
In recent years, Lopez has deepened his ties with Combat Sports, particularly Boxing. His involvement with Golden Boy Promotions, founded by boxing legend Oscar De La Hoya, has placed Lopez front and center in the boxing world. Golden Boy has become one of the premier boxing promotions, elevating Latino fighters like Canelo Álvarez, Ryan Garcia, and Jaime Munguía to global fame. Lopez, serving as a commentator and promoter, has used his platform to highlight the achievements of Latino athletes making waves in the ring. Despite Canelo Álvarez’s departure from Golden Boy Promotions and his ongoing tensions with Oscar De La Hoya, boxing fans cannot overlook the significant contributions made by Golden Boy and Mario Lopez to the sport.
“I’ve always been passionate about combat sports,” Lopez shared during the Walk of Fame ceremony. “From wrestling in high school to training in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu today, it’s been a journey of hard work, discipline, and representing where I come from.”
A Star on His 51st Birthday
The honor of receiving his star on October 10 was made even more special, as it coincided with Lopez’s 51st birthday. Surrounded by his three children—Gia, Dominic, and Santino—and his wife, Courtney, Lopez’s emotional speech showed the balance between his professional accomplishments and his pride in being a father.
“Today, I happen to be turning 51 years old, and I’m still blessed to be doing what I love most. But more than anything, I’m proud my kids are here to witness this,” Lopez said, beaming with pride.
Fellow actor and friend Mark Wahlberg, who owns Wahlburgers where Lopez’s star is placed, joked about their long-standing friendship. “He thinks I had something to do with this star location. If I did, I’d put my own star here!” Wahlberg laughed, adding to the celebratory tone of the day.
From Hollywood to Combat Sports Advocacy
Though many fans know Lopez for his entertainment career, fewer are aware of his advocacy for combat sports. A dedicated amateur Boxer and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu practitioner, Lopez frequently trains and promotes fitness among Latino youth. His connection to Golden Boy Promotions has allowed him to use his platform to shine a light on the next generation of Latino fighters.
Lopez’s involvement in boxing has gone beyond just hosting; he’s used his voice to narrate the stories of countless Latino fighters, supporting them in and out of the ring. His respect within the boxing community is a testament to his dedication, further proving that Mario Lopez is more than a Hollywood actor—he’s a bridge between entertainment and Latinos in sports.
The star with Mario Lopez‘s name on the Hollywood Walk of Fame is more than just a tribute to his career; it’s a recognition of his cultural and professional impact on both the entertainment and sports industries. From his role as A.C. Slater to his deep involvement in promoting Latino talent in Combat Sports, Lopez’s legacy continues to inspire new generations of Latinos across the globe.
As Elvia Lopez said, “Mijo, you’ve always been a star to us. Now the world can see it too.”
