With the 2016-2017 school year officially underway, top-rated contender Felix Diaz recently took time to travel home to his native Dominican Republic, to give back to the school he attended as a youth in Santo Domingo.
“I was raised very poor, so I know how it feels to not have a book bag or school supplies. There is nothing more important for these children than their education. I have been fortunate enough to be in the position where I have the opportunity to give back to these children. I will be doing this every single year moving forward and doing everything in my power to help the unfortunate kids in the same area I was raised and to the community that has supported me so much throughout my career,” said Diaz.
The lone boxing Olympic gold medal winner in the Dominican Republic’s history, Diaz (18-1, 8KO’s) is coming off a career-changing performance back in July, winning a thrilling 10-round war against highly regarded, undefeated contender Sammy Vasquez. The bout, which Diaz took on just a few weeks notice, was shown live on FOX, and served as the co-main event to Deontay Wilder’s heavyweight title defense versus Chris Arreola.
The fight against Vasquez came just nine months after Diaz’ first career blemish as a professional, having lost a questionable majority decision to former world champion Lamont Peterson in Peterson’s backyard. Following the win over Vasquez, Diaz signed a long-term promotional agreement with promoter Lou DiBella. DiBella Entertainment along with Diaz and his management team are now working to secure the Dominican a fight against one of the top names in either the 140 or 147lb. division.
