Vic Darchinyan

Biography

Vic "Raging Bull" Darchinyan, born on January 7, 1976, in Vanadzor, Armenia, carved out a remarkable career in professional boxing that spanned nearly two decades. Before turning pro, Darchinyan amassed an impressive amateur record of 158-18 with 105 knockouts, representing Armenia in various international competitions. He secured bronze medals at the 1998 European Amateur Boxing Championships, the 1998 Goodwill Games, and the 1998 Boxing World Cup. Darchinyan's Olympic journey culminated at the 2000 Sydney Games, where he reached the third round in the 112-pound division before bowing out to Kazakhstan's Bulat Jumadilov.

Following his Olympic appearance, Darchinyan made his professional debut in Sydney, Australia, on November 3, 2000, defeating Sande Kizito via a six-round points decision. This victory began a career that would see him become a two-weight world champion. Darchinyan's aggressive, unorthodox style and formidable punching power made him a fan favourite and a force to be reckoned with in the lower weight classes.

The Armenian-born Australian citizen reached the pinnacle of his career on December 16, 2004, when he challenged IBF flyweight champion Irene Pacheco. In a dominant performance, Darchinyan stopped the previously undefeated Colombian in the 11th round, claiming his first world title at the age of 28. This victory was particularly significant, making Darchinyan the first Armenian boxer to win a world title and the first fighter trained by Australian boxing legend Jeff Fenech to capture a world championship.

Darchinyan's career reached new heights in the super-flyweight division, where he unified the WBA, WBC, and IBF titles. His most notable victory in this weight class came on November 1, 2008, when he knocked out the highly regarded Cristian Mijares in the ninth round, becoming the first man to unify the titles in the 115-pound division. Darchinyan's reign as a unified champion included successful defences against formidable opponents such as Jorge Arce and Tomás Rojas, further cementing his status as one of the best fighters in the lower weight classes.

Darchinyan faced numerous world-class fighters throughout his career, including Nonito Donaire, Abner Mares, and Anselmo Moreno. While he didn't always emerge victorious in these high-profile bouts, Darchinyan's willingness to take on all comers and his exciting fighting style ensured he remained a popular figure in the sport. His final professional bout took place on March 10, 2017, at 41, when he scored a first-round knockout victory over Pakpoom Hammarach in Melbourne, Australia.

Vic Darchinyan hung up his gloves with a professional record of 43 wins (32 by knockout), 9 losses, and 1 draw. His legacy as a two-weight world champion, unified titleholder, and one of the most exciting fighters of his era is secure. Darchinyan's journey from amateur success in Armenia to world championship glory in Australia and the United States inspires aspiring boxers worldwide, particularly those from smaller boxing nations looking to make their mark on the global stage.