Local Boxer Becomes 3X Hall of Famer

2024 has been a busy year for Jose “CheloMan” Alonzo. He was inducted into the Florida Boxing Hall of Fame in June, and he will officially receive the same honor from the USA Boxing Hall of Fame in November. Alonzo will add yet another award to the list as he is set to be inducted into the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame (IMAHOF) in November as well. Being honored in two Hall of Fames within the span of a week is “incredibly special,” Alonzo noted.

Shi Heng Chang, President of the International Martial Arts Hall of Fame, shared the good news with the boxer earlier this month and Alonzo was sent a trophy and nomination certificate to commemorate the momentous occasion. Last week, the organization’s president even informed the athlete that he would be the first professional male boxer from the United States to be inducted into their Hall of Fame.

“I am honored to be the first professional male boxer from the USA to receive this recognition,” Alonzo said. “My PR Boxing agent, Dalia Duran, has been an invaluable support, guiding me through the nominations and qualifications for the Hall of Fame. Being inducted into three prestigious Hall of Fames is truly beyond words.”

As the Sun had reported earlier this year, Chelo officially joined the Florida Boxing HOF on June 23 and was appointed as a supervisor for the National Boxing Association by President Damon Gonzalez that same day. Chelo was proud to be the first Latino athlete from Hernando County to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and he received a proclamation from the county for his accomplishment on June 25. USA Martial Arts HOF President Jim Thomas later welcomed Alonzo as the fifth boxer to be inducted into his elite organization in late July.

The decorated boxer noted his appreciation for his community, family and, in particular, his wife, Cristina Alonzo, who he lovingly refers to as his “lioness queen.” She has been by his side every step of the way and has been instrumental as a partner in life and business.

“This year has been filled with ups and downs, but I am thankful for the lessons and growth that God has placed on my path,” Chelo said. “I strive to follow Him as best I can. While I am not perfect, I am committed to doing what’s right and maintaining a clear conscience. I cherish my family, my wife, my grandchildren, and my community – everyone who has been part of my journey […]”

The IMAHOF induction ceremony will be held on the other side of the globe in India, though Alonzo will not be able to attend. This moment is “especially poignant” for the boxer as the event falls on what would have been his grandfather’s 88th birthday. Chelo joins seven other individuals, including Willie Papo Vargas and Claudette Andrews, who are set to officially join the international sports fraternity on November 17.