Ruben Castillo, the former boxing champion who faced some of the sport's greatest names in the late 1970s and early 1980s, has died at the age of 68. The World Boxing Council confirmed his passing, prompting an outpouring of tributes from fans and officials.
Castillo compiled a professional record of 67 wins, 10 losses and two draws. He remained undefeated for his first 43 bouts until Alexis Arguello knocked him out in the 11th round in 1980 to retain the WBC super featherweight title. He also fought Julio Cesar Chavez, Salvador Sanchez and Juan Laporte.
Following his death, social media was flooded with tributes. One fan wrote: 'Excellent contender who was so unfortunate to be in the same era as legendary champs like Salvador Sanchez and Alexis Arguello.' Another added: 'Ruben and Chick Hearn were gold of Fights From The Fabulous Forum broadcasts.'
His nephew wrote on Facebook: 'A great man. Both him and his family were a great part of my childhood. He always gave great advice, would be there when ya needed him.' WBC president Mauricio Sulaiman said: 'It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the passing of my dear friend and champion Ruben Castillo. Now he is in the arms of God.'
Castillo turned professional at 17 and went 43-0 before his first defeat. After losing to Sanchez for the WBC featherweight title, he was stopped by Chavez in the sixth round. He retired in 1995 after a brief comeback. Following his boxing career, he worked as an announcer alongside Chick Hearn and called fights for ASPN.
