World Boxing Champion Jose Ramirez visits Lemoore Youth Soccer League

As hundreds of local youngsters spent their morning hours on the soccer field, Ramirez made himself at home visiting with players, coaches, and friends.

The unbeaten boxer – 23-0 – won his last fight, a unanimous decision on Sept. 14 at Fresno’s Save Mart Arena, defeating Antonio Orozco to retain his WBC light welterweight title.

The personable Ramirez is a Valley native and spent his formative years in Avenal where he attended the local schools. As an amateur, he won the United States National Amateur Boxing Championships and competed in the Olympics. He’s also a Junior Golden Gloves National Champion, two-time Junior Olympic Champion, and a two-time Ringside World Champion.

Jose Ramirez with Mayor Ray Madrigal (far left), wife Tammi, and Miguel Solano.

After watching a bit of soccer, the Avenal native found the time to say hello to Lemoore Mayor Ray Madrigal, even taking a photo with the mayor and his wife, Tammi. He then signed all manner of items, including shirts, hats, and programs for eager fans.

According to Miguel Solano, president of the Lemoore Youth Soccer League, well over 500 youths, boys and girls, play recreational and competitive soccer every weekend at the sports complex. The players range in age from Under 4 to 16 and 17.

Ramirez was present on Lemoore Youth Soccer League’s Kids Day where kids got to enjoy a bounce house, see the mayor, munch on free hot dogs, and of course visit with a world champion boxer.

Solano is proud of the turnout Saturday. “Our numbers increased by 100 from last year,” he said. “We have more kids participating (in soccer) this year. Kids Day is an appreciation not just in soccer, but that they’re out there in the community. It’s also kind of a thank you to the community for supporting the league.”

How did Solano get the champ to Lemoore? Well, it helps that the two been friends since their grade school days. They also attended Avenal High School. “I knew Jose for years, so I had him come over. We grew up together in Avenal. I’ve known him for 20 years or more.”

More importantly, Ramirez has relatives locally. “He actually had family playing,” said Solano. “I had him come over and take pictures and sign autographs. He’s involved in a lot of stuff like that for kids.”