Jose “Pipino” Cuevas, a renowned boxer with formidable punching strength, made a significant mark in the boxing world. On this day in 1976, at just 18 years old, Cuevas caused a major upset by defeating the reigning WBA welterweight champion Angel Espada. Considered the underdog in the match, Cuevas stunned the audience by knocking Espada down with a powerful left hook in the second round, securing a victory and setting a record as the youngest welterweight champion ever.
Following his initial triumph, Cuevas successfully defended his title 11 times, demonstrating his exceptional punching power. Although he faced tough challenges, including a defeating loss to Thomas Hearns in 1980 and a stoppage against Roberto Duran in a pivotal fight that could have altered his career trajectory, Cuevas continued to battle until his retirement in 1989 with a record of 35-15. Recognized for his fierce fighting style and perseverance, Cuevas was posthumously inducted into The Hall of Fame in 2002, leaving behind a legacy of a thrilling and tumultuous career.
