Inspiration at All Levels

Por

Érika Montoya

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Publicado: 26/11/2024 · 1:08 p.m. MX | Actualizado: 26/11/2024 · 1:08 p.m. MX

Mexican trainer Jorge Capetillo proves that hard work, determination, and perseverance pay off. From his gym in Nevada, he is fulfilling the dream of representing the Mexican flag at the highest level.

What began as a wild idea has led him to become one of the most renowned trainers in the United States. His roster includes boxers and mixed martial artists who draw the spotlight. He continues to work to gain ground and elevate his fighters to the next level.

Capetillo takes pride in representing the Mexican style within the Latino community and is dedicated to nurturing the stars of tomorrow while upholding high standards.

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“I’m fortunate to live in the boxing mecca, Las Vegas. After New York’s golden years, Las Vegas took its place, and I think it’s a great land for the development of boxing and contact sports. That’s why we stayed here… and boxing continues to grow, thanks to names that now lead the sport, like (Saul) Canelo Alvarez,” said Capetillo, who hails from Guadalajara.

Jorge’s journey crossed paths with boxing when he was very young. His uncle, Javier Capetillo—a high-level trainer for over 50 years—introduced him to the boxer’s life and taught him enough to fall in love with the work in the gym and the adrenaline that fills every moment in the corner of the ring.

“He was a father figure, not only to me but also to his fighters, and that’s how he planted that seed in me. Little by little, I started learning from him, eventually making my way. He was a great inspiration to me, and now we’re carrying on his legacy,” he recalled.

However, he acknowledged that none of what exists today would have been possible without the sacrifices made by him and his family. They left their country of origin and settled in a young Las Vegas, where he worked as a construction helper, mover, and more while they gathered the funds to build their dream from the ground up.

“We started paving our way, like any other endeavor, with perseverance, effort, and never giving up. We endured highs and lows, but with the certainty that everything in life comes in time. That’s how it was for us. The sacrifice must be significant to achieve the goal, and now seeing a gym like this brings great satisfaction,” he added.

Today, Jorge leads Capetillo Boxing Gym in Las Vegas, shaping the boxing scene. Among the fighters who have trained there are former heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, the first Mexican heavyweight champion, Andy Ruiz Jr., Venezuelan Jorge Linares, Cuban Yordenis Ugas, and martial artists like Brandon Moreno, a Mexican UFC pioneer, along with Americans Anthony Pettis and Jorge Masvidal. He also trains new Mexican talents like Lazy Boy (Ronaldo Rodríguez) and Daniel Zellhueber.

“I’m happy to see how it has grown and how everyone who comes here continues to inspire new generations. I feel honored and blessed because we’ve poured our hearts, love, souls, and passion into this project. We’re a big family,” he explained.

While professional boxing and mixed martial arts provide a great showcase, Capetillo made his project more comprehensive. He opened his doors to children and young people looking for inspiration and motivation in sports, not necessarily aiming for a world championship.

“We’ve seen that the community has come together, and we have several kids. Being able to teach and help them find discipline and goals, even if not everyone is born to be a fighter and not all fighters are born to be champions, is important to understand. With perseverance and discipline, dreams come true,” he concluded.

Gym members are expected to follow clear rules. The gym implements an anti-bullying initiative, along with an inclusion program that promotes respect and honor—core principles of contact sports.

One of his long-term projects includes his son, Dylan, who began practicing the sport years ago. He has participated in over 60 amateur bouts and promises to carry on the Capetillo family legacy.

FIGURES

11 world champions trained by Javier Capetillo Sr.

14 years old is Dylan Capetillo.

UFC 283 was a special event where Brandon Moreno defeated Deiveson Figueiredo, the “God of War.”

2019 was the year Jorge Capetillo saved Tyson Fury from a loss due to a cut that required 47 stitches.

BULLETS

Javier Capetillo, Jorge’s inspiration, passed away in 2023, leaving a legacy of over 50 years.

Capetillo’s gym is located at 3430 E Tropicana Ave, Suite 61, Las Vegas.

Four years ago, during the pandemic, his gym was attacked, but with the support of his fighters, he managed to pull through.

His focus is not only on building a robust elite group of fighters but also on fostering community and supporting younger athletes.

Érika Montoya