Born: 1970 (Ocotlán, Jalisco, Mexico)
Biography:
Martha Salazar (born February 2, 1970, in Ocotlán, Jalisco, Mexico) is a Mexican retired female boxer and former WBC world Heavyweight champion. Known by her nickname The Shadow, Salazar left an indelible mark on the sport of boxing, particularly in women’s boxing history. She became the third Hispanic to achieve the illustrious title of world Heavyweight champion, following in the footsteps of male boxer John Ruiz of Puerto Rico.
Salazar’s journey in the boxing world began on March 25, 2001, when she made her professional debut with a resounding victory over Denise Callahan in Hayward, California. Building on her early success, Salazar went on to defeat Carley Pesente in two consecutive bouts, both decided unanimously in her favor, in Tacoma, Washington. She continued her winning streak, securing two more victories, including a significant six-round decision win over the highly regarded Kisha Snow on November 16, 2002.
However, Salazar experienced her first setback on March 1, 2003, when she made her Las Vegas debut and suffered a points defeat over four rounds at the hands of former NCAA basketball star Vonda Ward. Undeterred, Salazar bounced back to secure her first knockout win against Pesente in their third encounter, which took place on May 24, 2003, in Vallejo, California. Salazar displayed her power and determination by defeating Pesente in the first round.
Salazar’s outstanding performances and resilience earned her a shot at the IBA world Heavyweight title in her rematch with Vonda Ward on June 11, 2003, in Canton, Ohio. Despite her best efforts, Salazar fell short, losing to Ward by a ten-round decision. Nevertheless, Salazar’s determination did not waver, and she continued to push forward.
On March 18, 2004, Salazar faced Marsha Valley in California and suffered her second consecutive defeat, this time in a split six-round decision. However, Salazar would soon find redemption in a rematch against Valley on October 16, as they battled it out for the World Boxing Empire’s world super heavyweight title in Oakland. Defying the odds, Salazar emerged victorious, avenging her previous loss and becoming a world champion for the first time with an eight-round unanimous decision.
Undeterred by the weight class, Salazar decided to drop down in weight and challenge Pamela London for the vacant WIBF’s world Heavyweight title. On November 28, 2004, Salazar ventured abroad for the first time, traveling to Guyana for her highly anticipated clash with London. Salazar, weighing in at 240 pounds, displayed her tenacity and skill in the ring, further cementing her legacy in women’s boxing.
Throughout her career, Martha Salazar broke barriers and shattered stereotypes, proving that women have a place in the world of professional boxing. As a trailblazer, she inspired countless aspiring athletes and made an enduring impact on the sport. Her dedication, resilience, and remarkable achievements continue to be celebrated in the annals of women’s boxing history.
Awards:
– WBC World Heavyweight Champion