The World Boxing Association President Gilberto Mendoza celebrates a new year of life today and the WBA family sends its most affectionate greetings and good wishes.

Born in the city of Barquisimeto, Lara state in 1943, Mendoza was an athlete since he was very young. He practiced football, and was amateur boxer; he even was member of the national team.

Full of ideas to improve the sport of boxing, he made his way through from being a regional director, to different areas till he became the WBA president 1982.

He has always been conciliator, committed consolidate the union among world boxing bodies, encourages loyalty, to conquer the unexpected areas in sport, Mendoza has managed to trace his path. He was the creator of the KO drugs Campaign, its social flag within the WBA and has managed to involve other entities, and he has worked for the strengthening of regional bodies.

The WBA family and boxing in general wishes Gilberto Mendoza a very happy birthday.