Carlos Calderón (boxer)
Carlos Calderón (born July 27, 1975) is a Puerto Rican former professional boxer. He competed from 2000 to 2014, holding the WBO minimumweight title from 2003 to 2007 and the WBO junior flyweight title twice between 2007 and 2010.
Early Life and Amateur Career:
Little information is publicly available regarding Calderón's early life. He had a relatively short amateur career before turning professional.
Professional Career:
Calderón turned professional in 2000. He quickly rose through the ranks, showcasing his boxing skills and accumulating an impressive record. His aggressive style and relentless pursuit of opponents made him a popular fighter.
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WBO Minimumweight Champion: In 2003, Calderón defeated Daniel Reyes to win the WBO minimumweight title. He defended the title successfully five times against notable opponents like Alex Sánchez and Kermin Guardia.
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WBO Junior Flyweight Champion: In 2007, Calderón moved up in weight and defeated Nelson Dieppa to claim the WBO junior flyweight title.
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Title Defenses and Losses: Calderón defended his junior flyweight title several times. However, he encountered challenges from other skilled fighters in the division. He lost the title in 2007 to Iván Calderón (no relation). He then regained the title, only to lose it again in 2010 to Jesús Geles.
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Later Career: Following the loss to Geles, Calderón continued to box, but he did not regain a world title. He retired in 2014.
Achievements and Legacy:
- WBO Minimumweight Champion (2003-2007)
- WBO Junior Flyweight Champion (2007, 2007-2010)
Calderón is remembered as a tough and determined fighter who brought excitement to the lower weight divisions of boxing. His two world title reigns solidified his place in Puerto Rican boxing history.