Biography:
Ada Ace Vélez, born on September 15, 1969, is a Puerto Rican female professional boxer hailing from Dania Beach, Florida, who currently resides in Miami. Introduced to the world of boxing by former women’s boxing world champion Bonnie Canino, Vélez quickly rose to prominence, leaving an indelible mark on women’s boxing history.
Vélez embarked on a remarkable amateur career, marked by a string of victories and a national title. Her exceptional skill and determination caught the attention of boxing enthusiasts and paved the way for her transition to the professional stage. It was on January 19, 2001, when Vélez etched her name in the annals of boxing history, becoming the first Puerto Rican to win a women’s world boxing championship. In a dazzling display of skill and courage, Vélez secured the IBA bantamweight title by winning a unanimous decision over ten rounds against Kathy Williams.
Unfazed by her initial success, Vélez hungered for more accolades and sought to prove herself in higher weight divisions. Just ten months later, she took on undefeated Mary Elizabeth Ortega for the WIBA super bantamweight title. Once again, Vélez exhibited her prowess and emerged victorious after a grueling ten-round unanimous decision. With this triumph, she solidified her status as a force to be reckoned with in the world of women’s boxing.
Vélez’s ascent seemed unstoppable, and her first ten professional fights resulted in resounding victories. However, she faced her first setback as a professional in her maiden defense of the WIBA title. On June 21, 2002, Melissa Del Valle handed Vélez her first professional loss in Waco, Texas, which came as a learning experience for the determined boxer.
Not one to be deterred, Vélez rebounded with incredible resilience and reclaimed the IBA version of the world bantamweight title on December 21. She showcased her unwavering spirit by securing a decision victory over ten rounds against Lakeysha Williams. Continuing her reign of success, Vélez added the WIBA bantamweight title to her collection on June 28, 2003, by defeating Delia Gonzalez through a seventh-round disqualification.
Vélez’s journey took her to Denmark, where she defended her WIBA bantamweight title against Anita Christensen on January 17, 2004. In a highly controversial match, Vélez suffered a split decision loss to Christensen, despite knocking her down in the ninth round. The Danish press vehemently criticized the outcome, asserting that Vélez had been robbed of her rightful victory.
Throughout her career, Vélez’s record stands at an impressive 20 wins, 5 losses, and 3 draws, with six knockout wins. Beyond her achievements in the ring, Vélez has become a beacon of inspiration and mentorship for aspiring boxers. Passionate about sharing her knowledge and expertise, she now devotes her time to teaching kids, teens, and adults boxing at Velez Boxing and Fitness in Oakland Park, Florida. Through rigorous training regimes encompassing exercise machines, running, strength and conditioning, and the art of boxing itself, Vélez instills discipline, determination, and self-confidence in her students.
Ada Ace Vélez’s tremendous impact on women’s boxing extends beyond her awe-inspiring record. She has broken barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and paved the way for future generations of aspiring female boxers. Her unwavering dedication to her craft, coupled with her groundbreaking achievements, make Ada Ace Vélez an icon in the realm of women’s sports.
Awards:
– IBA Bantamweight Title
– WIBA Super Bantamweight Title
– WIBA Bantamweight Title