Boxer Ruben ‘the Conquistador’ Castillo has passed away at 68, the World Boxing Council has announced.
A cause of death has not been revealed.
The native Texan and proud Chicano went 69-10-2 over a career that began in 1975 and lasted until 1997. Although he never won a world title, Castillo was a key figure in boxing in the late 1970s and early 1980s, as he battled with some of the biggest names in the sport.
He was 43-0 until he fought the legendary Alexis Arguello in 1980. The bout was competitive, but Arguello scored the 11th-round knockout to retain his WBC super featherweight title.
Castillo would lose his next bout, too, dropping a unanimous decision to Mexican legend Salvador Sanchez after leading the first six rounds.
Castillo later lost to Julio Cesar Chavez in 1985 as the iconic boxer scored a sixth-round knockout at the Forum in Los Angeles.
Ruben Castillo (L) throws a punch against Julio Cesar Chavez during the fight at the LA Forum
Boxer Ruben ‘the Conquistador’ Castillo has passed away at 68, according to the World Boxing Council. A cause of death has not been revealed
‘Excellent contender who was so unfortunate to be in the same era as legendary champs like Salvador Sanchez and Alexis Arguello,’ one fan wrote on X. ‘Definitely world championship material in a different era. R.I.P.’
Castillo ultimately served as an announcer alongside legendary play-by-play man, Chick Hearn.
‘Ruben and Chick Hearn were gold on Fights From The Fabulous Forum broadcasts,’ one fan wrote online. ‘Great stuff.’
He also had a reputation as a positive influence on many young fighters and fans.
‘A great man,’ his nephew wrote on Facebook. ‘Both him and his family were a great part of my childhood. He always gave great advice, would be there when ya needed him. Going to parties at his place, doing golf charity events. He def was the neighborhood Uncle for alot of us.
Castillo later served as an announcer on many WBC fights from the Forum in Los Angeles
‘A Family man, Boxer, Charity planner, we lost. Great one today and too soon. RIP brother hope they got a ring set up so you can box the greats!’
The native of Lubbock, Texas had six children, including twins. A daughter, Misty, preceded him in death. He is survived by his wife, Cindy.
‘It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the passing of my dear friend and champion Ruben Castillo,’ WBC president Mauricio Sulamain wrote on Instagram.
‘Now he is in the arms of God. May his wife Cindy, family and friends find comfort with the support of the so many who loved Ruben. Rest in eternal peace.’