Miguel Velázquez. El catedrático del ring

Born into a humble family in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Velázquez became one of the most elegant and respected figures in Spanish boxing. In 1964, he achieved a unique milestone in the history of national sports by being proclaimed military world champion, a title that no other Spaniard has achieved to this day.

That achievement was the beginning of a brilliant professional career that started in Madrid and took him to the highest levels of European and world pugilism. In 1967, he was crowned champion of Spain in the lightweight category, but it was in 1969 when his name was etched in the collective memory: his epic fight against Pedro Carrasco for the European Championship, despite not winning it, earned him national recognition thanks to his refined technique, elegant style, and extraordinary presence in the ring. The following year, he conquered the European title against Ken Buchanan, establishing himself as a prominent figure in Madrid's social life.

His crowning moment came in 1976 when he reached world glory by winning the super lightweight title against the Thai Saensak Muangsurin. However, boxing is also a sport of falls, and just six months later, he lost the belt to the same rival. That defeat marked his definitive retirement, closing an exceptional career that combined talent, discipline, and charisma.