CANASTOTA, NY - JUNE 15, 2022 - The International Boxing Hall of Fame announced its flags will fly at half-staff in memory of lightweight and junior welterweight champion Carlos Ortiz, who passed away on Monday (June 13) at the age of 85.
“Carlos Ortiz was one of the best to ever lace up a pair of gloves and he represented the sport so well,” said Hall of Fame Executive Director Edward Brophy. “His championship reigns entertained fans around the world and he brought tremendous pride to Puerto Rico. The Hall of Fame offers our condolences to the Ortiz family and joins the boxing world in celebrating his life and mourning his passing.”
Born in Ponce, Puerto Rico, Ortiz won the junior welterweight title with a 2nd round TKO over Kenny Lane in 1959. He moved down to the lightweight division and in 1962 scored a 15-round decision over Hall of Famer Joe Brown to win the world title. He lost and regained the belt in two 15-round bouts with Hall of Famer Ismael Laguna in 1965. Ortiz retired in 1972 with a 61-7-1 (30 KOs) record that includes wins over Hall of Famers Flash Elorde, Sugar Ramos and Duilio Loi.
In 1991, Ortiz was elected into the International Boxing Hall of Fame.
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