Former two-division world champion Diego Corrales has remained an icon of the sport, 16 years after his tragic passing. The boxing legend was known for his fearless fighting style and incredible display of heart in the ring, and his legacy still lives on in the hearts of boxing fans around the world.

Corrales’ career spanned over a decade, during which he fought some of the biggest names in the sport. He won his first world title in 1999 when he defeated Robert Garcia for the IBF super featherweight belt. Corrales would go on to capture the WBO super featherweight title as well, before moving up in weight to win the WBC lightweight title in 2004.

However, it was his unforgettable fight against Jose Luis Castillo in 2005 that cemented Corrales’ place in boxing history. In what is considered by many to be the greatest fight of all time, Corrales was knocked down twice in the 10th round but managed to get back up each time and eventually stopped Castillo with a flurry of punches. However, he tragically passed away a month after his last fight against Joshua Clottey, 16 years ago today. His fight with Castillo is still talked about today as one of the most thrilling and dramatic in boxing history. Moreover, this might be the reason why fans were quick to jump on a pay tribute after a resurfaced picture of his rookie card from the 2001 Browns Boxing set went viral online.

Fans unite to remember the legacy of Diego Corrales

A user named Joel L. Getreu claimed that Corrales made the greatest comeback ever in his bout against Castillo. “The greatest comeback I ever witnessed,” he wrote.

Another user named Joe Sedlak remembered the time he was the favorite coming into a fight against Floyd Mayweather Jr. “I remember when he was the favorite against Mayweather,” they wrote.

A user named Ralph Estrada Avina paid homage to the fallen boxing legend. “RIP CHAMP,” they wrote.

Moreover, a user named Austin Biddle shared his experience of actually meeting Corrales. He stated that the legend was a humble person and greeted his fans every chance he had. “I met him a few times, he was a really nice dude. He always stood in an area that fans could meet him and take pictures,” they wrote.

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Lastly, a user named Ben Rodriguez declared his fight against Castillo as the best fight ever in boxing. “That was the greatest fight ever,” they wrote.

Corrales’ rookie card from the 2001 Browns Boxing set is now a cherished item for many collectors and fans. It serves as a reminder of the incredible career and life of one of boxing’s greatest champions. Moreover, the fans have not seemed to have forgotten him even after 16 years after his tragic death. Corrales may be gone, but he will never be forgotten. His legacy lives on in the hearts of boxing fans and in the record books of the sport he loved so much.

What did you think about fans paying their respects to Corrales? Let us know in the comments section below.

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