Robert Guerrero’s Boxing Career Earned San Jose Hall
Robert “The Ghost” Guerrero was named to the San Jose Sports Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024. The July 16 announcement scheduled his induction for November 13 at SAP Center, recognizing a Gilroy boxer whose career reached world championship level.
A South Bay sporting honor
Guerrero joined philanthropist John Arrillaga, football coach Mike Holmgren and volleyball champion Kerri Walsh Jennings in the four-member class. The annual event honored athletes and sports figures with lasting connections to the South Bay.
Each inductee was to receive a bronze plaque permanently displayed on SAP Center’s concourse. The ceremony also supported Special Olympics Northern California and high school sports programs.
From Gilroy to world championships
Guerrero learned boxing from his father, Ruben, and won Junior Olympics gold at fifteen. His elusive style helped produce the nickname “The Ghost” before he progressed into professional championship contention.
He captured the IBF featherweight championship against Eric Aiken in Los Angeles in September 2006. Moving to super featherweight, he defeated South Africa’s Malcolm Klassen by unanimous decision in 2009 to become champion in a second division.
His career also included a difficult period away from competition while his wife, Casey, underwent treatment for leukemia. Her successful bone marrow transplant allowed the family to move forward as Guerrero resumed boxing. The local honor recognized both his championship achievements and his place in the region’s sporting history.
Sources
- San Jose Sports Authority: 2024 class, ceremony and Guerrero biography
- Premier Boxing Champions: Guerrero’s championship career and family circumstances
