H.R. No. 277
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, Omar Figueroa Jr. of Weslaco has distinguished
himself through his exceptional achievements in the sport of
boxing, earning a world title and compiling an unbeaten record; and
WHEREAS, The son of Omar Figueroa Sr. and Judith Figueroa,
Omar Figueroa Jr. was introduced to the sport at age six by his
father, who has served as his son's trainer for much of his career;
and
WHEREAS, Omar Figueroa Jr. first proved his abilities in the
amateur ranks, winning a Golden Gloves state title in 2007; that
triumph helped convince him to turn professional, and he notched
his first pro victory on June 6, 2008, at the age of 18; earning the
nickname "Panterita," or "little panther," for his aggressive style
in the ring, he won each of his first eight bouts by knockout or
technical knockout, and none of the fights extended past three
rounds; by 2012, he was taking on other rising contenders in the
135-pound weight class, and key wins against Michael Perez and
Abner Cotto earned him a shot at the title; and
WHEREAS, On July 27, 2013, Mr. Figueroa stepped into the ring
with Nihito Arakawa, and after a thrilling 12-round battle,
Panterita was named the victor by unanimous decision, claiming the
lightweight world championship; he defeated two challengers in 2014
before relinquishing the title later that year after injuries
prevented him from defending it; and
WHEREAS, Despite the setback, this determined fighter scored
two wins in 2015; following an extended layoff, he returned to
action on July 15, 2017, against Robert Guerrero, another former
champion; proving that he is once again in top form, Panterita
earned a commanding victory in the welterweight class, overcoming
his opponent in just three rounds; the fight marked his 19th career
knockout and raised his overall record to 27 wins and 1 draw; and
WHEREAS, One of the most exciting boxers to emerge from the
Lone Star State in recent years, Omar Figueroa Jr. has become a
source of great pride to his fellow Texans, and he is indeed
deserving of special recognition; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 85th Texas
Legislature, 1st Called Session, hereby congratulate Omar Figueroa
Jr. on his accomplishments as a professional boxer and extend to him
sincere best wishes for continued success; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for Mr. Figueroa as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.
Martinez
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 277 was adopted by the House on August
15, 2017, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House