Santos Laciar - The highly underrated Flyweight champion from Argentina

Argentinian fighter Santos Laciar was world champion in both Flyweight and Super Flyweight during the 80s. He won the WBA title when he defeated Peter Mathebula but quickly lost it to Luis Ibarra in a highly disputed contest. He would later regain the title by beating Juan Herrera and would make several successful defenses by beating fighters such as Betulio Gonzalez, Prudencio Cárdena, and Hilario Zapata. He would later move up to 115 to challenge Super Flyweight champ Gilberto Roman in a fight that would end in a controversial draw which he would later rectify that in a rematch when he stopped Roman. His time as Super Flyweight champ would be short lived however when he would lose it against Sugar Baby Rojas, who would in turn lose it to Roman afterwards. Laciar would also lose to Juan Carazo via SD. He would have one more shot for a world title when he challenged his Gilberto Roman again but by that point he was already past his best days and Roman would easily outpoint him via decision.

Laciar was both an offensive wrecking ball and a defensive maestro. Although not a big one punch knockout artist nor a fighter with quick footwork he made up for it for his extreme toughness, tenacity, relentless come forward style, crafty boxing skills, sound defense and head movement who was never stopped out of his 101 pro fights. A terrific and highly under appreciated fighter who was one of the best from Argentina and most certainly deserves his spot in the IBHOF IMO.

Highlights by the @haNZAgod

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First two fights were tremendous, especially the second fight. Very high level boxing from both guys. Third fight was more of a washout but Roman looked very good in that fight. His last great performance before his tragic death.

 

Only wish there was available footage of Laciar’s fights with Gustavo Ballas, Betulio Gonzalez, Charlie Magri, Luis Ibarra, Prudencio Cardona, and Juan Carazo. Would also like to see video of Laciar’s knockout victory over Juan Herrera.