Former WBA super featherweight champion Alfredo Marcano passed away Saturday in Cumana, Venezuela at the age of 62 after a long bout with cancer. Marcano turned pro in 1966 and fought some of the best and toughest boxers at 125 and 130lbs in his native Venezuela, Mexico and the United States, always giving his best effort. Curiously enough, Marcano won the title at a time when his career had taken a downward spiral (4-5) and probably was viewed as a “safe” opponent for reigning WBA Champion Hiroshi Kobayashi. Their fight took place in Japan on July 29,1971 and the gritty Marcano, trailing on points, kayoed Kobayashi in the 10th round.

Alfredo then returned to Japan for his first title defense and stopped Kenji Iwata in 4 rounds. Marcano lost the title to Ben Villaflor via a 15 round decision in Honolulu on March 25,1972. The Venezuelan then returned home and racked up 8 straight wins which gave him the opportunity to meet Bobby Chacon at the Olympic Auditorium in Los Angeles on  September7,1974 for the vacant WBC Featherweight title. Alfredo put up-as always- a game effort but was kayoed by the red-hot Chacon in 9 rounds. Alfredo Marcano retired in 1975 after a kayo loss to Art Hafey with a final tally of 44-11-5, 29 KOs. Rest in Peace, Champ.