Home >> Newsroom >> 2009

Print

January 19, 2009

Statement of Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez on José “Chegui” Torres

“It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of my dear friend, José “Chegui” Torres. He rose to fame as a champion in the boxing ring, but his contributions expanded far for the people of Puerto Rico and New York’s Puerto Rican communities. My heart goes out to his four children and his loving wife, Ramona Ortiz.

“Throughout the years, José was a community activist and a fighter for minorities and poor people. He could talk to people from all backgrounds, and was always well-liked and respected in the community. José represents the pride of Puerto Rico.

“José rose to the top of the boxing world, always displaying his love for Puerto Rico by wearing the island colors in the ring. When his fighting days ended, his pride in Puerto Rico did not. He chaired the New York State Boxing Commission, served as supervisor for the World Boxing Organization, and wrote with great passion about the sport he loved so much. José was dedicated to his sport, but his love for Puerto Rico was unmatched.

“José has been by my side throughout much of my career, supporting and encouraging me as I worked to become a Congresswoman. With everyone he knew, José was able to see their potential and push them to achieve their goals. His great passion for life and his dedication to Puerto Rico serve as an example for us and for future generations.”

###