Mexico Commemorates 12th Death Anniversary of Don Jose Sulaiman (Photos)
By Gabriel F. Cordero
PhilBoxing.com
Sat, 17 Jan 2026
This Friday, January 16th, marked the 12th anniversary of the passing of Don Jose Sulaiman, the lifetime president of the WBC and one of the greatest sports leaders in Mexico and worldwide.
As every year since his passing in 2014, a mass was held at the Basilica of Guadalupe in Mexico City, attended by the Sulaiman family, world champions, boxing officials, boxers, and fans in general, who, along with the media, remembered the immortal leader who made the most significant changes in the history of world boxing, both inside and outside the ring.
Photos: Alma Montiel & Rey Danseco.
Since his arrival as president of the WBC in December 1975, the world of boxing evolved, grew, and transformed, focusing on the protection, safety, health, and respect of boxers during their active careers and after retirement.
Throughout 2026, a tribute will be paid to Don José Sulaimán on the 50th anniversary of his election. An embroidered patch will be available for boxers, judges, and referees to wear, and commemorative materials will detail the most significant achievements under Sulaimán's leadership during his nearly 38 years at the helm of the WBC.
Don José Sulaimán was a special and admirable individual, possessing extraordinary social and human sensitivity. He was a true leader who elevated boxing and the WBC to global sporting icons.
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