Born: 1962
Biography:
Bonnie Canino, born on 11 January 1962, is a retired American boxer and kickboxer. She is best known for her achievements as a world featherweight champion in both boxing and kickboxing. Throughout her career, Canino showcased her exceptional skills and dedication to the sport, becoming a prominent figure in women’s combat sports.
Canino’s journey in combat sports began in the early 1990s. She quickly established herself as a formidable force, winning titles in both boxing and kickboxing. In kickboxing, she held the prestigious titles of KICK World Featherweight Champion and WAKO World Featherweight Kickboxing Champion between 1993 and 2000.
In addition to her success in kickboxing, Canino also made her mark in professional boxing. Despite facing formidable opponents throughout her career, she displayed her resilience and determination inside the ring. Among her notable wins are victories over Gloria Ramirez, Nora Daigle, and Sue Chase.
Throughout her career, Canino challenged for world titles in both boxing and kickboxing. She competed twice for the Women’s IBF Featherweight title, showcasing her drive to excel at the highest level. Canino’s accomplishments also include being a two-time IBF World Featherweight title challenger.
In 2014, Canino’s extraordinary contributions to the sport were recognized when she was inducted into the Women’s International Boxing Hall of Fame in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This honor further solidified her legacy as a pioneer and trailblazer for women in combat sports.
Beyond her accomplishments in the ring, Canino also played an important role in mentoring and promoting young female fighters. After retiring from professional boxing in 1999, she worked at a car dealership and managed Ada Vélez, the first Puerto Rican woman to become a world boxing champion. Canino also managed Yvonne Reiss, the WBC Women’s Middleweight World Champion.
Continuing to make a lasting impact in the sport, Canino transitioned into coaching and opened her own karate and boxing gym. She has also been instrumental in organizing the Women’s National Golden Gloves tournament, empowering young women to pursue their dreams in combat sports.
With a professional kickboxing record of 28 wins in 35 fights, Canino’s achievements speak volumes about her skill and determination. Her contributions to both boxing and kickboxing, coupled with her dedication to promoting women’s participation in combat sports, have left an indelible mark on the world of sports.
Awards:
– Induction into the Women’s International Boxing Hall of Fame (2014)
– KICK World Featherweight Kickboxing Championship
– WAKO World Featherweight Kickboxing Championship
– IFBA World Featherweight Championship (126 lbs)
– Two successful defenses of the IFBA World Featherweight Championship