Hi-Yong Choi: Boxing Career and Notable Fights
Hi-Yong Choi, born on September 13, 1965, in Busan, South Korea, is a former professional boxer who etched his name in the annals of Korean boxing history. Standing at 5’4½” (164 cm), Choi’s diminutive stature belied his immense talent and unwavering determination.
Hi-Yong Choi’s boxing career
Choi embarked on his professional boxing journey in 1987, and his meteoric rise was nothing short of remarkable. In just his 10th professional bout, he captured the WBA mini flyweight title with a decisive victory over Bong-Jun Kim in 1991. Choi’s reign as the champion was marked by four successful title defenses, showcasing his skill and tenacity in the ring.
However, his reign was cut short in 1992 when he lost the title to the formidable Hideyuki Ohashi. Undeterred, Choi moved up in weight and set his sights on the WBA light flyweight championship. In 1995, he achieved his goal, defeating Leo Gamez to claim the coveted title.
Choi’s reign as the WBA light flyweight champion was short-lived, as he lost the belt to Carlos Murillo in 1996. Despite this setback, Choi’s legacy as one of the most accomplished Korean boxers of his era was firmly cemented.
Throughout his illustrious career, Choi amassed an impressive record of 19 wins, 8 of which came by way of knockout, against just 2 losses. His ability to adapt to different weight classes and his unwavering determination made him a formidable opponent in the ring.
Hi-Yong Choi’s journey from the streets of Busan to the pinnacle of professional boxing reflects his unwavering spirit and dedication. His achievements have inspired generations of Korean boxers, and his name will forever be etched in the annals of Korean boxing history as a true legend of the sport.
Further career results
Choi won the WBA light-flyweight title from Leo Gamez on February 4, 1995. Carlos Murillo ended that reign on January 13, 1996. Those championship dates identify a second division and a later title period, separate from his minimumweight championship against Bong-Jun Kim and loss to Hideyuki Ohashi.
Sources
Additional sources: https://boxrec.com/wiki/index.php/Hi_Yong_Choi; https://www.cyberboxingzone.com/boxing/gamez-l.htm
