Romina “Bambita” Castan, nicknamed ‘the female Canelo’, was ready to make history as the youngest professional boxer in the world. At just 12 years old and with 50 amateur victories, she was set to make her debut this weekend on the Esneidy Rodriguez vs. Wisuta Sririttidet card in Veracruz. However, the World Boxing Council (WBC) decided to stop her participation.
Mauricio Sulaiman, president of the WBC, made the decision personally. He argued that the age difference with her opponent, Guadalupe Medina (21 years old), and the latter’s experience represented a danger to Romina’s integrity. “The fight is not logical,” he said on social media, assuring that he will not allow a 12-year-old girl to risk her health.
Romina Castan is a precocious talent
Originally from Jose Cardel, in La Antigua, Veracruz, Romina began boxing at the age of six and quickly gained notoriety for her power, discipline and charisma. Her nickname of “female Canelo” has been earned through hard work, but her youth has raised concern among authorities, doctors and experts
Sulaiman explained that he even received threats from Romina’s father, who insisted on allowing the fight. Even so, the president stood firm. “I will do everything possible to prevent it,” he said, arguing that opening the door to children’s fights can lead to tragic consequences.
The Pat Daly case
Many compared the case to that of Pat Daly, a British boxer who made his debut at the age of 10 in 1923 and reached the world top 10 before the age of 17. However, modern medicine warns against these risks. The Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) joined the criticism, saying that the human brain is not fully developed before the age of 14.
Even so, Romina and her team were confident in their preparation. “I wake up at 5 in the morning, I run, I train, I go to school… this is my life,” said the young woman. Her determination remains intact, but her debut will have to wait.
What’s next for the ‘female Canelo’?
The WBC said it will continue to support Romina in her amateur career, guiding her career responsibly. The decision has sparked a debate between those who applaud the protection of the minor and those who believe that young Mexicans are more resilient than ever.
Meanwhile, Romina Castan is preparing to start secondary school in September, without abandoning her dream: to one day become world champion and lift the green and gold WBC belt.
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