Esmeralda “Joya” Moreno hangs up her gloves
The boxing family experienced a farewell, as former world champion Esmeralda “Joya” Moreno (35-12-2, 11KO) announced her retirement at the WBC Coffee Tuesday, in Sports & Chips Restaurant south of CDMX.
Mexican Esmeralda Moreno was born in Chimalhuacán on July 7, 1987, and made her pro debut in 2005. She won the WBC Youth title in the straw and light fly divisions, she also won the Silver belt, defending it with great pride to finally win the WBC light fly world title defeating Naomi Tagoshi. She became world champion for the second time a few years later.
She built an impressive record of 35 wins (11KOs), 12 losses and 2 draws between 2005 and 2019. She faced the best of the moment, including: Ibeth Zamora, Jessica Chávez, Alesia Graf, Mayela Pérez, Ana Maria Torres, Mariana Juárez, Simona Galassi, Maribel Ramírez, Naomi Togashi, Yessica Nery, Eva Voraberger, Melissa McMorrow and Yessenia Gómez.
The 36-year-old said, ” I gave my best in each of my fights, always going against the current. I come from a marginalized neighborhood with many deprivations; However, I made up for everything I lacked with heart and determination. I remember with great respect Don José, who always supported me, and for me it will always be a pride to have represented the WBC. I am grateful for all my defeats because all of this led me to winning my world titles.
“I thank my parents, my coaches, but especially, my daughter. Life is not easy, love. But I want you to remember forever that there are no limits to being a woman. I love you and you will always be my greatest inspiration.”
WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman added, “Today a cycle closes. Esmeralda always proudly represents the WBC. She was a champion, loyal and honorable throughout her career. Esmeralda always represented women’s boxing in the best way. She was always disciplined and gave us her best. We are so very proud of her.”
The former Mexican world champion, Esmeralda Moreno is on the ballots as a nominee as eligible to be inducted in the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
Article sponsored by HÖRFA