Emotional Weigh-Ins Set the Stage for Johnny Tapia Memorial Boxing Event in Albuquerque
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Johnny Tapia Memorial Boxing Event officially kicked off Friday evening with weigh-ins held at the Tapia Fite Lounge, where fighters made weight and emotions ran high as the boxing community gathered to honor one of New Mexico’s most beloved champions.
Saturday’s event takes place at Leo’s, located at 12th Street and Candelaria in Albuquerque, with amateur boxing scheduled from noon until 6 p.m. before the professional card begins at 7 p.m. Fans can also enjoy food trucks and additional musical entertainment throughout the day as the celebration of Johnny Tapia’s life and legacy continues.
The most emotional moments of the evening came away from the scale.
Teresa Tapia, widow of the late five-time world champion Johnny Tapia, presented Johnny’s oldest son, Jonathan Tapia, with the very first world title belt Johnny captured during his legendary career. The heartfelt moment drew applause and tears from those in attendance as the championship was passed on to the next generation of the Tapia family.
Teresa also honored Josh Torres, a fighter many close to Tapia know was one of Johnny’s favorite students. Torres was gifted the final world championship belt won by Tapia, creating another unforgettable moment that highlighted the impact “Mi Vida Loca” continues to have on New Mexico boxing.
Inside the ring, all fighters successfully made weight ahead of Saturday’s card.
Official Weigh-In Results
Welterweight
Josh Torres (148 lbs.) vs. Diego Gonzalo Luque (148.2 lbs.)
Middleweight
Clinton Chavez (161.8 lbs.) vs. Eduardo Monrreal (162 lbs.)
Welterweight
Johnny Tapia Jr. (148.4 lbs.) vs. Andrew Flamm (147.2 lbs.)
Middleweight
Jonathan Tapia (159.6 lbs.) vs. Derek Perez (160.6 lbs.)
Light Heavyweight
Sean Hamilton (175 lbs.) vs. Daquanti Johnson (175 lbs.)
With the weights made and emotions already running high, Saturday’s event promises to be more than just a night of boxing. It will be a celebration of the life, accomplishments, and enduring influence of Johnny Tapia, whose legacy continues to inspire fighters, fans, and families throughout New Mexico and beyond.
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