Yesterday (May 30), a collection of the boxing’s rising Puerto Rican stars awarded former champion and Hall of Famer Wilfred Benitez recognition as their honorary team captain.
Created by promoters Gary Shaw, Lou DiBella, Universal Promotions and Warrior Boxing, Team Puerto Rico is home to young pros and prospects such as Cesar “Junito” Seda Jr.Thomas Dulorme, Hector “El Flaco” Sanchez and Kenny “Batllestar” Galarza. Benitez, who suffers from diabetes and traumatic encephalopathy, still holds the distinction of being the youngest fighter ever to win a world championship at 17 years old.
Benitez received the honorary team captain position in person with his family. In addition, Team Puerto Rico made a donation of $2000 to his medical expenses.
“I will never forget this gift from Team Puerto Rico,” said Yvonne Benitez, who has cared for her brother Wilfred since his health decline in the mid 90s. “We are very grateful for the money and the position that has been awarded to my brother, as an Honorary Captain. Thanks to Team Puerto Rico’s boxers and its promoters who were here to support my dear brother.”
Lou DiBella, who in 2009 declined to promote any future Jermain Taylor out of concern for the fighter’s health, stated that promoters have an obligation to support fighters outside of the ring.
“I could not be present due to prior commitments, but I have Benitez in my heart,” he disclosed. “It is an honor that he has accepted the position of Honorary Captain. We, as promoters, have a duty that goes beyond just putting on fights. We must also support the fighters of past and present and that’s what we tried to do today.”
The young fighters who grew up hearing stories of Benitez’s famed boxing skills were appreciative and humbled by his presence.
“I grew up watching him fight and it was impressive to see him in action,” said Jose “Sniper” Pedraza (2-0, 2 KOs). “He had it all. It’s really special to me, to see him in person.”
“I’ve seen many of his fights and his skill was of another level; Benitez was truly special. I feel very good to be able to help,” added Cesar Seda, Jr.
The next appearance for Team Puerto Rico will be National Puerto Rican Day Parade weekend, when members will compete on June 10 and 11 at the Roseland Ballroom in New York City (“Boricua Invasion”). Fights from both cards will be televised on ESPN “Friday Night Fights” and Showtime’s “ShoBox: The New Generation.” Tickets can be obtained through Ticketmaster.
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