Exclusive Interview with the Tijuana Veteran
My father has dedicated his life to boxing and he has done it with great passion and love for the sport.–Monique Rendon
Benjamin Rendon has dedicated over three decades working in the sport of boxing.
He was an amateur boxer and continues his love of pugilism today. If you have ever met the Tijuana, Mexico resident even just once, you will know why people respect and love this working boxing official. I’ve known him for several years and he is always a class act.
With his silver hair and beard and debonair mannerisms, some say he resembles Dos Equis’ “Most Interesting Man in the World” in those legendary beer commercials. And Señor Rendon has worn a lot of hats during his 78 years on this earth. But don’t let the age fool you, he’s got more energy than most people even half his age! Benjamin is very active in the sweet science and recently began a new job with a boxing commission.
I caught up with the busy boxing vet (who just returned from attending the annual World Boxing Council (WBC) Convention in Cancun.
Michele Chong: !Hola Benjamin! I heard you started a new position with a boxing commission in Mexico? Congrats to you. Tell us a little about what’s new with you and how long you’ve been involved in boxing?
Benjamin Rendon: Thank you very much, always happy to hear from you! Yes, I am the Vice President of the Tijuana Boxing Commission (Comisión de Box) and the position is usually for three years. I’ve been involved in boxing for over 32 years in boxing. I have supervised many WBC fights and also do judges’ seminars in Mexicali, Tijuana and Ensenada with Leo Ibarra (who is also a WBC judge). He has supported the seminars and is part of the commission too.
MC: And your daughter Monique was also a boxing judge as well?
BR: Yes, Monique worked as a judge too but now she is very busy with work and raising her young son with her husband.
MC: It’s no secret that TJ often gets a bad rap (especially in the media and news). But there is a ton of good boxing cards taking place in the city that fans should see. Tell me why you love working and living in Tijuana and why you love boxing there?
BR: I love the history of my city; I’m very proud of my city–and its people. I admire all the good fighters. Gaspar “El Indio” Ortega is a champion without a crown, a big part of Tijuana Boxing.
I’m retired but still active in boxing. We’re also members of a tennis club in Tijuana and I enjoy life and enjoy the friendships we have in both Mexico and the U.S. I thank God every day for all our great friends.
MC: And you recently were honored in your city? You’ve been inducted in several Hall of Fame organizations, correct?
BR: Yes, it was for the 2019 Sports Walk of Fame in Tijuana! It was a great honor. I’ve also been inducted into the California Boxing Hall of Fame, the National Boxing Hall of Fame, the Sports Hall of Fame, and the WBC Legends of Boxing Museum.
MC: You were an amateur boxer in your youth but I also heard you still work out in the gym? Besides boxing, what are your other interests?
BR: Yes! I workout and still hit the heavy bag and speed bag. I am also a big music aficionado but I really love boxing. It is a great sport, the best sport with the people, the champions, former champs. Nice people like you. And we all talk the same language: BOXING!
While I was chatting with Benjamin, he introduced me to noted ring announcer Pablo Flores. Rendon spoke highly of Flores saying he works in Latin America and is a true professional.
In turn, I asked to speak to Pablo to hear his thoughts on his gran amigo, Benjamin Rendon. Through the years in boxing, Benjamin has remained one of the most respected men in the fight game. I asked Pablo what sets Benjamin apart from others and how has he inspired him?
“He blends in anywhere! Benjamin is very well respected,” Flores says. “From acquaintances to close friends, everyone loves him.
He pushes me to the limit and I learn lessons to grow. He has so much knowledge and he encourages people to thrive. Benjamin is a very special friend to me and it is a huge privilege to have him as a friend. And for 79 years old, he’s got the energy of a 30 year old! Always active and happy.”
Benjamin then gets back on the phone to make one thing clear: “I’m NOT 79 I’m 78, I overheard!”
We all share a hearty laugh as our conversation continues.
And we talk about boxing, of course.
There are people you meet in boxing who stand out. Mr. Benjamin Rendon is one of them. A stand-up guy, a smart businessman, a generous friend. And a doting family man.
He mentions his wife Monica and their kids Benjamin Jr., Monique, Edna and Lupita and eight grandchildren that keep them on-the-go and happy!
After our phone chat, I reached out to his daughter, Monique. Besides being his daughter, the two share the bond of being boxing officials. I wanted to hear Monique’s thoughts on her father’s long and successful career in the world of boxing?
“My dad is a fair man. He is a gentleman and he brings that to the sport,” the pretty brunette replies. “As a commissioner, ring official or supervisor he is firm, honest and humble. My father has dedicated his life to boxing and he has done it with great passion and love for the sport.”
Benjamin and his family are well known in Tijuana–the city they love. He has worked hard his whole life and represents a positive role model to so many from those just beginning in the sport to golden champions of yesteryear.
And with a ton of upcoming live shows in Mexico, you will see Rendon ringside at several of them. And no doubt, you will see the Hall of Famer doing what he loves–officiating over his favorite sport.
Photos by Michele Chong/Group photo courtesy of Benjamin Rendon