Former WBA World bantamweight champion, Romeo “El Lacandón” Anaya, from Cahuare, Chiapas, Mexico, passed away on December 24. He was 69 years old.

Anaya turned pro in 1967 with a KO over Costenito Pena and never stopped fighting. He had six fights in 1968, eight fights in 1969, 10 fights in 1970, and six fights in 1971, culminating with a knockout victory over Alfredo Meneses to win the Mexican bantamweight title.

“El Lacandón” fought five times in 1972, and on January 20, 1973, he KO’d reigning and defending champion Enrique Pinder, fighting out of Panama City, Panama, to win the WBA World bantamweight title.

Anaya had two successful defenses in 1973, to Rogelio Lara and Enrique Pinder a second time, but held the WBA title for less than a year. He lost the crown in November in Johannesburg, South Africa, to Arnold Taylor by 14th round KO. After that loss, his record became spotty.

After 13 years of active duty Anaya retired in 1980, after having gone 9-16 in his last 25 fights.

His final record was 46-19-1 with 38 KOs.

RIP, champion.

This article was penned by the author who is not related to the WBA and the statements, expressions or opinions referenced herein are that of the author alone and not the WBA.