Fernando Daniel Martinez

Early Life and Amateur Career

Fernando Daniel Martinez, born on July 18, 1991, in Buenos Aires, Argentina, grew up in a family with a deep passion for boxing. His father, a former amateur boxer, introduced him to the sport at a young age. Martinez quickly developed a love for boxing, training diligently under his father’s guidance at a local gym. Martinez’s amateur career was marked by significant achievements and rapid progress. One of his earliest notable successes came in 2009 when he won the Argentine National Championships in the flyweight division. This victory earned him recognition as one of Argentina’s most promising young boxers and provided a platform for further achievements.

In 2010, Martinez represented Argentina at the South American Games held in Medellin, Colombia. Competing in the flyweight division, he won a gold medal, showcasing his talent on an international stage. This accomplishment was a pivotal moment in his amateur career, boosting his confidence and establishing him as a top contender in his weight class. Martinez continued to build his international experience by competing in the 2011 Pan American Games in Guadalajara, Mexico. He faced tough competition but managed to secure a bronze medal, further solidifying his reputation as a skilled and determined boxer. His performance in these games demonstrated his ability to compete against some of the best amateur boxers in the Americas.

One of the highlights of Martinez’s amateur career came in 2012 when he qualified for the London Olympic Games. Although he did not medal, his participation in the Olympics was a significant milestone, providing him with invaluable experience and exposure on the world’s biggest stage. Competing against elite boxers from around the globe, Martinez gained insights that would later benefit his professional career.

Professional Career

His professional journey began on August 25, 2017, with a win over Juan Ignacio Haran at Club Social y Deportivo El Porvenir in Quilmes, Argentina, where Haran retired after the fourth round. This victory set the tone for Martinez’s career, showcasing his power and determination. Martinez quickly established himself as a force in the super flyweight division. On May 18, 2018, he captured the vacant Argentine (FAB) super flyweight title by defeating Fabian Hernan Claro via a second-round knockout. This win was a significant milestone, marking the first of many titles Martinez would claim in his career.

Continuing his rise, Martinez secured the WBC Silver super flyweight title on December 16, 2019, by defeating Athenkosi Dumezweni with an eleventh-round TKO at the International Convention Centre in East London, South Africa. This victory further cemented his status as a top contender in the division and showcased his ability to win on an international stage. A major highlight of Martinez’s career came on February 26, 2022, when he won the IBF super flyweight title by defeating Jerwin Ancajas via unanimous decision at the Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. He successfully defended this title in a rematch against Ancajas on October 8, 2022, at the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, once again winning by unanimous decision. These victories underscored his dominance in the super flyweight division.

Martinez continued his undefeated streak with a notable victory on June 24, 2023, when he retained his IBF super flyweight title by defeating Jade Bornea via TKO in the eleventh round at the Minneapolis Armory in Minnesota, U.S. This win demonstrated his endurance and knockout power, further solidifying his reputation as a formidable champion.