Enrique Sanchez
- Nickname: El Zurdo de Oro
- Date of Birth: 16th July 1972 (52 years old)
- Retired: 3rd June 2004 (Career length: 13 years 5 months)
- Status: Retired
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Nationality:
Mexico -
Birthplace:
Mexico City, Distrito Federal, Mexico
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Residence:
Hacienda Heights, California, USA - Division: Super Bantamweight
- Reach: 68.9"
- Height: 5ft 8"
- Stance: Southpaw
- BoxRec: Enrique Sanchez
- Debut: 15th December 1990
Biography
Enrique Sánchez is a celebrated figure in Mexican boxing history, affectionately known as "El Zurdo de Oro" (The Golden Southpaw). Born on July 16, 1972, in Mexico City, Sánchez began his professional boxing career on December 15, 1990, with a fourth-round stoppage victory over veteran Felipe Castillo. This impressive debut set the stage for a successful career over 13 years.
Sánchez's amateur career is less documented, but it is known that he had some success, including a notable win over the future world champion Marco Antonio Barrera in the amateur ranks. However, he truly made his mark in the professional arena. One of his most significant achievements came on March 14, 1997, when he defeated Joe Manzano to win the NABF Super Bantamweight title. This victory showcased his skill and determination, setting him up for more significant challenges.
On February 8, 1998, Sánchez achieved the pinnacle of his career by winning the vacant WBA Super Bantamweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Rafael del Valle. This title win cemented his status as a world-class fighter. However, his reign was short-lived, as he lost the title to fellow Mexican Néstor Garza later that year. Despite this setback, Sánchez faced top-tier opponents, including Marco Antonio Barrera, against whom he suffered a sixth-round technical knockout loss in 2001. His final professional bout occurred on June 3, 2004, at the Chinook Winds Casino in Oregon, where he lost to Robert Guerrero via an eighth-round technical knockout.
Throughout his career, Sánchez demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill, compiling a professional record of 30 wins, 3 losses, and 4 draws. His ability to compete at the highest level against some of the best fighters of his era is a testament to his dedication and talent. Despite never regaining a world title after his initial loss, Sánchez remains a respected figure in boxing, known for his southpaw stance and aggressive fighting style. His legacy as "El Zurdo de Oro" continues to inspire new generations of boxers from Mexico and beyond.
Sánchez's decision to retire in 2004 marked the end of an era for a fighter who had consistently pushed himself against the best in the super bantamweight division.