Abner Mares, a former multi-time, multi-weight boxing champion, has been out of the ring for nearly two years, but the 38-year-old from Downey, California, believes he still has something left to offer. Mares, who was born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and immigrated to the United States at the age of 7, has had a remarkable career, marked by his dedication, discipline, and the support of his family and team. Despite facing multiple eye injuries that ultimately led to the end of his professional career, Mares remains passionate about the sport and is considering a return to the ring, albeit with a more realistic approach.

A Resilient Champion's Pursuit of Greatness

From Humble Beginnings to Boxing Stardom

Abner Mares' journey to the top of the boxing world was not an easy one. Born in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, he immigrated to the United States at the age of 7, settling in Hawaiian Gardens with his mother and seven siblings. To avoid the dangers of the rough neighborhood culture and street gangs, Mares was sent back to Mexico at the age of 14, where he was encouraged to pursue boxing. This decision would ultimately shape the course of his life, as he discovered a passion for the sport that would lead him to greatness.

A Decorated Professional Career

Mares' professional career took off when he signed with Oscar De La Hoya's Golden Boy Promotions. Over the course of his career, he compiled an impressive record of 31-3, with 15 knockouts, and became a four-time, three-division world champion, fighting as a bantamweight, super bantamweight, and featherweight. His success was not just limited to the professional ranks; Mares also represented Mexico in the 2004 Summer Olympics, where he competed in the first round, albeit in a highly controversial decision.

Overcoming Adversity and Eye Injuries

Despite his impressive accomplishments, Mares' career was not without its challenges. He faced multiple eye injuries that ultimately led to the unfortunate end of his professional career. However, Mares credits his success to the unwavering support of his family, friends, coaches, and trainers, who have been instrumental in his journey.

The Importance of Teamwork and Dedication

Mares is quick to acknowledge that his success was not solely his own doing. He recognizes the vital role played by his team, including his conditioning coach, boxing coach, and his wife, in helping him achieve his goals. Mares also emphasizes the importance of his own dedication and discipline, noting that he would go to bed early, avoid partying and drinking, and maintain a strict regimen to ensure he was in peak physical and mental condition.

Considering a Comeback: A Realistic Approach

Although Mares has not ruled out a return to the ring, he remains realistic in his expectations. He acknowledges that he is 38 years old and that he is not looking to compete for a world title, but rather to simply step back into the ring and experience the sport he loves once again. Mares recognizes that he has taken care of his body and believes he has two more fights left in him, but he is not interested in facing the top-ranked fighters. Instead, he wants to go out there and do it again, on his own terms, and with the same passion and dedication that have defined his career.

A Lasting Legacy and a Continued Passion for the Sport

Mares' legacy in the sport of boxing is undeniable. His accomplishments as a four-time, three-division world champion, coupled with his unwavering dedication and the support of his team, have cemented his place in the annals of boxing history. Even though his professional career may have come to an end, Mares' passion for the sport remains undiminished. As he contemplates a potential comeback, he is driven by the desire to once again experience the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of the sport he loves.