A Historic Day for Puerto Rican Boxing
In a moment that blended sports, pride, and history, Puerto Rican boxer Subriel “Orgullo de Maternillo” Matías was officially honored as the WBC super lightweight world champion. The emotional ceremony took place on Friday morning at La Fortaleza—the Governor’s mansion in San Juan—and was streamed live on Governor Jennifer González’s official social media platforms.
Matías earned his Green and Gold Belt after a thrilling majority decision win over Dominican contender Alberto “Avispa” Puello on July 12 at the Louis Armstrong Stadium in New York. That fight has already been called one of the best of the year.
A Ceremony Rooted in Tradition and Passion
La Fortaleza welcomed some of the most prominent figures in boxing. Among them were WBC President Mauricio Sulaimán, Central American Boxing Federation President Alberto Guerra, former world champion Juan Laporte, and WBC Puerto Rico representative Edgardo López.
Governor González opened the ceremony by emphasizing the historic nature of the moment: “This is the first time an official WBC ceremony has been held at La Fortaleza. It’s a milestone not just for Subriel, but for Puerto Rican sports as a whole.”
Sulaimán presented the Governor with a commemorative Mini Belt before turning to the ceremony’s centerpiece—the official crowning of Subriel Matías.
“All the great champions have worn this Green and Gold Belt. It is my honor to place it on your chest today,” said Sulaimán, his words echoing across the chamber.
A Champion’s Symbolic Gesture
One of the most touching moments came when Matías affixed a medal to his new belt—one given to him by Sulaimán back in 2022 with the words:
“You’re going to be a world champion one day.” With visible emotion, Matías said, “This medal inspired me. It stays on the belt forever.”
In recognition of his trainer, Nelson Adam, the WBC also presented a one-of-a-kind belt inspired by the towel trainers carry in every fight—a rare honor meant to spotlight those who shape champions behind the scenes.
As a final nod to legacy, Matías received a commemorative medal from the 2020–2022 WBC generation, signaling the hope that his next destination is the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
Puerto Rico: A Cradle of Champions
Puerto Rico has long been a dominant force in boxing. The island’s rich history is defined by legends who have captured the imagination of fans worldwide.
The story began with Sixto Escobar, the island’s first world champion in 1934. His victory sparked a wave of boxing greatness that includes:
- Carlos Ortiz: Super lightweight world champ in 1959, later ranked among the top 100 fighters of all time.
- José “Chegui” Torres: Claimed the light heavyweight crown in 1965.
- Wilfredo Gómez: Known as “Bazooka,” he delivered 17 consecutive KOs in title defenses and earned a Hall of Fame spot.
- Wilfred Benítez: Became the youngest champion in history at 17 and captured titles in three divisions.
- Héctor “Macho” Camacho and Edwin “Chapo” Rosario: Electrified fans with charisma, power, and unforgettable bouts.
Puerto Rican WBC World Champions
Here’s a look at Puerto Rico’s elite fighters who’ve worn the WBC crown:
- Alfredo Escalera – Super Featherweight
- Carlos De León – Cruiserweight (3-time champ)
- Carlos Ortiz – Lightweight
- Edwin Rosario – Lightweight
- Esteban De Jesús – Lightweight
- Félix Trinidad – Welterweight
- Héctor Camacho – Super Featherweight / Lightweight
- José Torres – Light Heavyweight
- Juan Laporte – Featherweight
- McWilliams Arroyo – Flyweight
- Miguel Cotto – Middleweight
- Subriel Matías – Super Lightweight
- Wilfredo Benítez – Welterweight / Super Welterweight
- Wilfredo Gómez – Super Bantamweight / Featherweight
A New Chapter Begins
Subriel Matías’s journey is not just about belts and victories. It’s about belief, persistence, and carrying the hopes of an island that has long been a pillar in world boxing. His triumph at La Fortaleza is more than a personal accolade—it’s a national celebration.
As Matías holds the belt close and honors the past, Puerto Rico looks to the future with a new icon ready to write his own legend in gold and green.
