The World Boxing Association (WBA) unveiled this Sunday its Centennial Belt, a unique work of art that evokes our past and honors the memory of great champions such as Jack Dempsey, Pinky Silverberg, Joe Louis, Rocky Marciano and so many other men who made pugilism history. 

This unique work, titled Centennial Belt, was created by Colombian artist Juan Pablo Restrepo, who used bronze and leather to recreate the first belts in history. 

The Cinturón Centenario is made up of three plates joined by chains that evoke the strength of our gladiators. On the left plate, we see a crown and bay leaves symbolizing victory, in the center, two ancient boxers fighting, crowned by two lions that reflect the noble art of boxing and the fierceness of the athletes. On the right, a boxing glove that reflects the evolution of this discipline that began to be practiced with unprotected hands. 

On the Centennial Belt we can read Super Champ Association WBA in ancient Greek style typography to honor the WBA’s history, but also the history of boxing itself, inspired by the ancient Olympic Games, a sporting event in which this discipline was already practiced. 

The WBA will award the Centennial Belt to honor the careers of active or retired boxers and great people of our sport. WBA, simply the pioneers.