On Wednesday, March 30, Gilberto Mendoza, president emeritus of the World Boxing Association (WBA), would be 79 years old. One of the most important leaders in the history of the pioneer organization and boxing in general.

The WBA family remembers the legacy of a man who gave everything to the sport he loved and who left a legacy that is indelible for the discipline. 

In a sport where so many actors are involved, Mendoza always made it clear that the priority was the athlete and gave a place to the protagonists that had been rarely seen in the history of boxing. He was always concerned about helping the fighters, asserting their rights and improving their conditions. The Venezuelan leader set a precedent that is still present today.

He improved the high-level sport with a classification system that was adopted by all the organizations and that showed the way to the organization of boxing in general. 

His concern for the different regions that did not have great opportunities in boxing were evident and he gave opportunities to fighters who were not so commercially showy and supported with their talent and proved that they deserved opportunities.

For 33 years he was at the helm of the WBA, in a journey that left great teachings and traced a path that many are still following today. The WBA family remembers a great man and thanks him for everything he left behind. Thank you for so much, Mr. Mendoza.