Julio César Chávez Sr., former professional Mexican boxer and world champion, will be Mr. Amigo in this year’s Charro Days festivities.
The Boxing Hall of Famer was born July 12, 1962 in Culiacán, Sinaloa, Mexico, and became a world lightweight champion and popular sports figure/national hero in Mexico.
Mr. Amigo President Artemio Álvarez III unveiled the 2019-2020 Mr. Amigo poster earlier today at the Texas Southmost College International Technology, Education and Commerce Center.
“When I looked at him, I looked at his professional life,” Álvarez III said. “What he’s done in the world and also, I looked at what he did, what he went through and what he’s doing right now. I think balancing that he’s been a pro in professional boxing and also in his personal life, that brings two great items in one package. I think he’s touched many lives with what he does in his personal time and, of course, if you like boxing, even if you might not, you’ve heard of him. He’s a champion. He’s a world champion and we are happy and excited to have him here.”
Álvarez III said negotiations to host Chávez began in October and that the former boxer will be in Brownsville from Feb. 27 to 29.
“I’m very glad that … our Mr. Amigo Association was able to bring such a great champ here to Brownsville,” Álvarez III said. “He’s gonna be a wonderful person to meet, to greet, to say hi.”
Brownsville Mayor Trey Mendez, who attended the announcement earlier today, said Chávez is a great choice.
“He’s somebody that for several, you know, probably a couple decades epitomized what it was to work hard, fight hard and really was a champion for Mexico and the United States at the same time,” Mendez said. “He’s a great, great choice and he’s loved by so many people here on the border and I know that a lot of people are really looking forward to meeting him.”
Chairwoman for the TSC board of trustees Adela Garza said when she was growing up, the community would get together to watch Chávez box.
“I can’t think of a better person right now when we need to be united, when we need to be one community,” Garza said. “I know that for a lot of people it’s gonna bring up very pleasant memories because it did for me, and I know that for him, it’s gonna be really exciting because he was the people’s champion.”
Chávez is scheduled to make an appearance during the Charros Days festivities, which will take place in late February.
