Round 12: A National Boxing Class for Peace and Against Addictions
By Mauricio Sulaimán – WBC President – Son of José Sulaimán
Hooray for Mexico and boxing! Sunday, April 6th, will be remembered as an extraordinary testament to how sports, particularly boxing—beloved in Mexico—can bring a nation together. It demonstrated that with hard work, commitment, solidarity, and care for one another, anything is achievable.
Mexico unified in response to a challenge from our President Claudia Sheinbaum, who successfully rallied all 32 states for a groundbreaking event: the National Boxing Class.
The Zócalo in Mexico City was splendid, hosting 45,000 people clad in the nation’s colors—green, white, and red. This overwhelming display of unity extended to plazas across cities, boroughs, and even numerous prisons nationwide celebrating the boxing event.
Legendary figures such as Julio César Chávez, Oscar de la Hoya, and Roberto Durán took the stage alongside other champions including Humberto Chiquita González and Irma García, all present in Mexico City to support the initiative.
Every state showcased their own champions, joined by governors and mayors, showcasing the remarkable collaborative efforts of the World Boxing Council and Prodeb, led by Miguel Torruco. They had worked tirelessly for months alongside the governors and sports institutes in each state to make this dream a reality.
The event featured 30 rounds, each lasting one minute, taking place simultaneously across the country, symbolizing a resounding triumph for peace and unity against addiction. This special occasion also marked the annual April 6 celebration of Sports and Peace, where attendees displayed a White Card as part of an initiative by Peace & Sport, emphasizing the impact of sports in promoting peace and social change.
The event, titled The National Boxing Class for Peace and Against Addictions, opened with an inspiring song by Jose Cantoral, “Mexico Cuenta Conmigo” (Mexico, You Can Count on Me). Claudia Sheinbaum summarized it nicely: “Mexicans embody a courageous, liberated, and just spirit, flourishing with community and care. Our youth are advocates for peace, rejecting violence and addiction.”
