Nancy Yesenia Franco de Alba, also known as Nancy Franco or “Chatita,” is a boxer with an impressive track record in the sport. Hailing from Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Franco was born into a family deeply rooted in the world of boxing. Both her father and brother were amateur boxers, which inspired her to pursue a career in the ring. At a young age, Franco realized that boxing was her passion, and she has dedicated 14-1/2 years of her life to the sport. With an unwavering determination, she aims to continue her professional boxing journey until the age of forty.
Early Success and World Titles
Franco made her professional debut in November 2008, demonstrating her potential by defeating Araneli Luna in just three rounds. In a short span of time, she climbed the ranks and quickly found herself in main event bouts. In January 2011, Franco fought for the WBC Youth minimumweight (105-pound) title but unfortunately lost to Ibeth Zamora Silva. Undeterred, she had another shot at the title 17 months later against Anami Torres but was unsuccessful once again.
However, Franco’s perseverance paid off when she traveled to Japan in November 2013 and secured the IBF world minimumweight championship by defeating Kayoko Ebeta in a ten-round decision victory. Although she lost the title to Victoria Argueta the following May, she regained the belt in a rematch in February 2015, solidifying her position as a two-time world champion. Franco’s ambition led her to chase the WBC 105-pound title, but she faced defeat in a decision loss to Yuko Kuroki during a trip to Japan. Unfazed, she moved up in weight to the light flyweight class but was defeated by Yesica Bopp in a ten-round bout. This was followed by an eight-round decision loss to Seniesa Estrada, a reigning WBC and WBA champion in women’s boxing.
A Series of Challenges
Despite facing numerous setbacks, Franco refused to back down. She ventured back down in weight class and had yet another opportunity to fight for a world title, this time contending for the WBA 115-pound belt against Anabel Ortiz in July 2017. Unfortunately, she suffered another ten-round decision defeat. Franco’s recent record shows seven losses in her last nine fights, including a stoppage loss to Adelaida Ruiz while competing for a WBC “silver” title at 115 pounds.
It is worth noting that throughout her career, Franco has consistently faced elite opponents, showcasing her fearlessness when it comes to approaching challenging fights. Determined to improve upon her most recent loss to Tania Enriquez in May 2022, Franco maintains her reputation as a fighter who is willing to face anyone, anywhere, at any time.
A Fighter’s Resilience and Strength
With a current record of 19-17-2 (with 5 KOs), Franco has only experienced knockout losses three times. She has showcased her endurance in numerous fights, enduring eight rounds or longer on fifteen occasions. This resilience may prove to be an advantage as she prepares to face amateur legend Christina Cruz.
Inside the ring, Franco is relentless. She consistently presses forward, looking for opportunities to counter-punch her opponents. Possessing a sturdy chin and remarkable stamina, Franco poses a legitimate challenge to even the most formidable competitors. A victory for Franco would not only signify her personal triumph but also celebrate the legacy of her family, as she happens to be the daughter of a candy maker.
Nancy Franco’s journey in the world of boxing reflects her unwavering determination and resilience. Despite facing formidable opponents throughout her career, she continues to push forward, chasing her dreams and seeking opportunities for redemption. With each fight, Franco’s expertise and experience grow, making her a force to be reckoned with in the ring. As the daughter of a candy maker, her journey in the sweet science of boxing continues to captivate and inspire.
Leave a Reply