Former Junior Lightweight Champion of the World Appointed to Boxing Commission

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Senate President Shan Tsutsui with Bienvenido Villaflor
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Senate President Shan Tsutsui with Bienvenido Villaflor

REPORT FROM THE HAWAII SENATE MAJORITY – As a newly confirmed member of the Hawaii State Boxing Commission, Bienvenido Villaflor said his vision for the future of boxing in Hawaii entails bringing the excitement and public awareness to the sport.

Teaching young people, the future generation of Hawaii, the importance of physical fitness, proper nutrition, and good sportsmanship in boxing can be perpetuated in our schools.  I feel that I can be a positive mentor for our youngsters of Hawaii,” said Villaflor.

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The Hawaii State Senate confirmed Villaflor to the State Boxing Commission of Hawaii on Wednesday, April 18.  He was among four nominees confirmed to the commission.  They were nominated by Governor Abercrombie and were subject to Senate confirmation.

Villaflor currently serves as the Hawaii State Senate Sergeant at Arms.  His career with the Senate has spanned through six Senate Presidents.

We’re truly honored to have a boxing legend as part of our Senate family,” said Senate President Shan Tsutsui. “Ben does a wonderful job here at the State Capitol and I’m confident that he will serve the Boxing Commission well with his expertise and love for the sport.”

Boxing has always been a great passion for me because of the opportunities it has brought to my life,” said Villaflor.

Villaflor came from humble beginnings in the Philippines.  Growing up in Zamboanga de Sur as one of 12 siblings, he said boxing became a means of supporting his parents and family by putting food on the table and by providing financial support for health, medical and educational needs.  According to records, Villaflor began his career at the tender age of 13.

He held a record of twelve wins without a loss, with eight knockouts before he suffered his first loss.

By excelling in the sport, he was able to come to Hawaii, where he earned the prestigious title of Junior Lightweight Champion of the World twice. Last year, Villaflor made the top ten list of the Greatest Filipino Fighters of All Time by The Ring magazine.

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