New Mexico Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2024

September 13, 2024 659 Views by

The New Mexico Boxing Hall of Fame announced its 2024 class ahead of a September 7 induction ceremony in Roswell. The ceremony has since taken place, recognizing contributors to the sport across New Mexico.

Individual Inductees

Ronnie Rentz: Amateur Boxing Sensation

Ronnie Rentz stands out as one of the most decorated amateur boxers in New Mexico’s history. With an impressive amateur record of 197-15, Rentz’s accolades include:

  • 1981 National Golden Gloves Champion (112 lbs)
  • PAL Nationals Champion (1975-1979)
  • National Silver Gloves Champion (1976-1979)
  • 16 international trips representing the USA

Rentz’s amateur career saw him defeat future world champions and Hall of Famers, including Paul Banke, Kennedy McKinney, and Pernell Whitaker.

Jackie Chavez: Women’s Boxing Pioneer

Jackie Chavez, hailing from Los Lunas, made her mark in women’s boxing by capturing the IFBA Bantamweight Championship in 2005. Her successful title defense in 2007 against Jackie Brown was part of the first all-women’s card televised on Fox, helping pave the way for greater recognition of women’s boxing.

Chris Linson Jr.: NBA World Welterweight Champion

Representing Santa Fe, Chris Linson Jr. boasts an impressive amateur record of 100-20 and a professional record of 21-6-1. His career highlights include:

  • NBA World Welterweight Champion (2000)
  • Two successful title defenses
  • Memorable fight against Rudy Lovato in 1998, named Fight of the Year

Legacy Promotions: Shaping New Mexico Boxing

The Hall of Fame will also recognize Legacy Promotions for their significant impact on boxing in New Mexico. Founded in 2015 by Aaron Perez, Jordan Perez, Miguel Leo, Pepe Sanchez, Gabe Carlin, and the late Eric Martinez, Legacy Promotions has:

  • Organized 27 fight cards to date
  • Promoted former world champions Angelo Leo and Brian Mendoza
  • Collaborated with Top Rank for major events
  • Supported local talent like Josh Torres, Guero Sanchez, and Matthew Griego

Additional Honorees

The 2024 class also includes:

  • Edward Vigil
  • Chris Flores Jr.
  • Jose Hurtado

Conclusion

The 2024 New Mexico Boxing Hall of Fame induction ceremony promises to be a celebration of the state’s rich boxing heritage. From amateur standouts to world champions and influential promoters, this year’s class represents the diverse talents that have shaped New Mexico’s boxing landscape.

The September 7 ceremony has now added the 2024 class to New Mexico boxing history, honoring athletes and contributors whose work shaped the state’s boxing community.

Citations:
[1] https://killeenskorner.com/2018/09/nm-boxing-hall-of-fame-banquet-october-27-embassy-suites-hotel/
[2] https://killeenskorner.com/2018/11/new-mexico-boxing-hall-of-fame-class-of-2018/
[3] https://www.boxingnewmexico.com/post/boxingnewmexico-com-2024-new-mexico-boxing-hall-of-fame-nominees
[4] https://www.boxingnewmexico.com/post/2024-new-mexico-boxing-hall-of-fame-inductee-s
[5] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4NrdyDei8xw
[6] https://roswell-nm.gov/Calendar.aspx?calType=0&day=7&month=9&year=2024
[7] https://boxrec.com/wiki/index.php/New_Mexico_Boxing_Hall_of_Fame

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by Oscar Madison - Sep 13, 2024

by Oscar Madison - Sep 13, 2024