Antonio Margarito, affectionately known as El Tornado de Tijuana, is a former professional boxer who made waves in the boxing world with his aggressive style and formidable chin.
Born on March 18, 1978, in Torrance, California, Margarito’s career spanned over 2 decades, during which he became a 3-time welterweight world champion.
This article will teach you about Antonio Margarito’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
Antonio Margarito’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Antonio Margarito Montiel |
| Nickname | El Tornado de Tijuana |
| Born | March 18, 1978 |
| Age | 46 years old |
| Reach | 72 in (183 cm) |
| Stance | Orthodox |
| Nationality | Mexican-American |
| Height | 5 ft 11 in (180 cm) |
| Net Worth (2024) | $18 million |
| Salary | Varies per fight |
| Wife | Lorena |
| Relationship Status | Married |
| Instagram Profile | – |
Early Career
Antonio Margarito turned professional at the young age of 15 due to financial challenges.
He made his debut against Jose Trujillo on January 14, 1994, winning by unanimous decision.
His early career was marked by a series of victories that set the stage for his later success.
Professional Career
Margarito’s professional career is highlighted by his tenacity and resilience in the ring.
He won his first world title at age 23 by defeating Antonio Díaz for the WBO welterweight title. Over the years, he also held the IBF and WBA welterweight titles.
Some of his most notable fights were against renowned boxers like Miguel Cotto, Kermit Cintrón, and Manny Pacquiao.
Despite facing controversies, including a suspension for illegal hand wraps, Margarito’s career remains significant in boxing history.
Wife
Antonio Margarito has been married twice. He first married his high school sweetheart Michelle in 1999.
After their divorce, he married Lorena, with whom he currently resides in Los Angeles.
Antonio Margarito’s Net Worth Details
Antonio Margarito’s net worth is estimated to be $18 million as of 2025.
Fight Purses
| Fight | Purse |
|---|---|
| vs. Paul Williams (2007) | $1.2 million |
| vs. Miguel Cotto (2008) | – |
| vs. Shane Mosley (2009) | $2 million |
Endorsements
- Sports apparel and equipment companies.
- Nutritional supplements and energy drinks.
- Local businesses in Mexico.
Career Records
Margarito’s boxing record is impressive, with numerous victories against top-tier opponents. Here is a table showcasing some of his notable fights:
| Opponent | Result | Method |
|---|---|---|
| Miguel Cotto | Win | TKO |
| Kermit Cintrón | Win | KO |
| Manny Pacquiao | Loss | UD |
FAQs
1. Who is Antonio Margarito?
Antonio Margarito Montiel is a Mexican-American former professional boxer who competed from 1994 to 2017. He held multiple welterweight world championships, including the WBO, IBF, and WBA (Super) titles.
2. What was Antonio Margarito’s nickname?
Antonio Margarito’s nickname was “El Tornado de Tijuana” (The Tijuana Tornado).
3. What was Antonio Margarito’s most significant controversy?
In 2009, Margarito was caught with illegal hand wraps containing gypsum (calcium sulfate) before his fight with Shane Mosley. This incident led to the revocation of his boxing license for at least one year.
4. What was Antonio Margarito’s fighting style?
Margarito was known for his aggressive pressure fighting style, relentless attacking, and exceptional durability. He focused on intense pressure and body punching, often eschewing traditional defense.
5. What was Antonio Margarito’s most famous victory?
Margarito’s most famous victory was against Miguel Cotto on July 26, 2008, where he won by technical knockout in the 11th round to claim the WBA welterweight title.
6. How many world titles did Antonio Margarito win?
Antonio Margarito won multiple welterweight world championships, including the WBO title (2002-2007), the IBF title (2008), and the WBA (Super) title (2008-2009).
7. What was the outcome of Antonio Margarito’s fight against Manny Pacquiao?
Margarito lost to Manny Pacquiao by unanimous decision on November 13, 2010, in a fight for the vacant WBC light middleweight title. Margarito sustained significant eye damage during this bout.
8. When did Antonio Margarito retire from boxing?
Margarito initially retired in 2012 after losing a rematch to Miguel Cotto. However, he came out of retirement in 2016 and fought his last professional bout on September 2, 2017.
9. What was Antonio Margarito’s professional boxing record?
Antonio Margarito’s professional boxing record was 41 wins (27 by knockout), 8 losses, and 1 no contest.
10. How did the hand wrap scandal affect Antonio Margarito’s career and reputation?
The hand wrap scandal severely damaged Margarito’s reputation and career. It led to the revocation of his boxing license, cast doubt on his previous victories, and tarnished his legacy in the sport.
