The World Boxing Council (WBC) and Iztapalapa Municipality announced the 'Verde y Oro por el Bienestar Animal' tournament, an event blending youth boxing development with animal welfare promotion. The launch took place during the first 'Martes de Café' of 2026, spotlighting Iztapalapa's role in Mexican boxing. The tournament aims to foster discipline and opportunities for young athletes.
WBC and Iztapalapa Municipality promote boxing with animal welfare focus
In an effort to link sports with social causes, Iztapalapa Municipality and the World Boxing Council (WBC) unveiled the 'Verde y Oro por el Bienestar Animal' tournament. The announcement occurred during the WBC's traditional 'Martes de Café', led by president Mauricio Sulaimán, at the municipality's facilities in Mexico City. Mayor Aleida Alavez Ruiz emphasized the project's importance for community development.
Scheduled for January 10, 17, 23, and 31, 2026, the tournament already has 345 registered athletes, 60 from Iztapalapa. Participants from various municipalities and states across the Republic will join, reflecting growing interest in such initiatives. Sulaimán highlighted the 'Verde y Oro' program's expansion, stating it 'has taken great force, great unity, and great activity for the boys and girls dreaming of becoming someone in life through boxing'.
'With the start of the great “Verde y Oro por el Bienestar Animal” Boxing Tournament, Iztapalapa opens a space where sport and social awareness walk together', Alavez said at the event.
This initiative is part of the qualification process for the Mexico City Sports Games 2025-2026. It promotes boxing as a tool for formation, recognizing local figures like champion Lupita Bautista. Sulaimán also outlined the broader Mexican boxing landscape for 2026, including title fights in Germany and New York, and ongoing support for stars like Saúl 'Canelo' Álvarez, who remains ranked number one in his division.
The event underscores Iztapalapa's commitment to social sports, using the ring to teach discipline, respect, and responsibility beyond competition.