Son of Mexican immigrants, and championing the small agricultural population of Avenal in California, Jose Ramirez has become a voice of this community that has been striving for many years, to solve its water for crops.

Ramírez (24-0-0, 16 ko’s), who`s the WBC Super lightweight  champion, fights Maurice Hooker (26-0-3, 17 ko’s), in a unified fight to be held in Arlington, Texas, and will reach Mexico through  TV Azteca.

“It feels nice to have this support, I am in a position that many would like, I have the motivation to go ahead and give joy and confidence to people who, like me, have immigrant parents and want to do something positive. I hope to be a good example for all … I will continue with this battle for the people.  We  want to ensure water so that people can work for the next ten years, the work season lasts less. Each  season is shorter and I know that by winning I can make a difference,” Ramírez said in an interview.

José Carlos Ramírez represented the United States at the 2012 London Olympics, and was twice a national amateur champion. As a child, he saw how his father fought for the right to water in his community, while he worked a grueling 10-hour day in the fields.

He left school to fully devote himself to boxing, and created a foundation to grant scholarships to children of immigrants. So far, this foundation has granted support for more than 50 thousand dollars.

Its manager, Rick Mirigian, has a very clear concept of José Carlos Ramírez.

“Since Muhammad Ali, Ramírez is the boxer who has been most involved in social activism, either in defense of immigrant rights, or in fighting for water for his community. He puts his money, and his fists, into action, to back up and reinforce his words.”

Photo courtesy of Ed Mulholland/ Matchroom Boxing