Manuel Ortiz (boxer)

Manuel Ortiz (July 2, 1916 – May 31, 1970) was a Mexican-American professional boxer. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest bantamweight champions of all time. Ortiz held the world bantamweight title twice, first from 1942 to 1947, and again from 1947 to 1950.

Born in Corona, California, Ortiz began his professional boxing career in 1938. He quickly gained recognition for his speed, agility, and powerful punching. In 1942, he defeated Pete Scalzo to win the world bantamweight title. He defended the title fifteen times before losing it to Harold Dade in 1947.

Ortiz regained the title later that year, defeating Dade in a rematch. He defended the title five more times before retiring in 1955.

During his career, Ortiz fought many of the top bantamweight fighters of his era, including Jackie Jurich, Speedy Dado, and Luis Castillo. He finished his career with a record of 97 wins, 28 losses, and 8 draws, with 53 wins by knockout.

Ortiz was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 1991. His legacy as one of the greatest bantamweight champions remains secure.