Belinda Laracuente, famously known as “Brown Sugar,” is a celebrated professional boxer who has left a lasting legacy in women’s boxing.
Born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and raised in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, she became a trailblazer in the sport, known for her resilience and skill in the ring.
Her journey from amateur champion to a professional with an illustrious career is an inspiring story of determination and passion.
Belinda Laracuente’s Biography
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Belinda Laracuente |
| Nickname | Brown Sugar |
| Date of Birth | January 29, 1979 |
| Age | 46 |
| Place of Birth | Bridgeport, Connecticut, USA |
| Nationality | Puerto Rican |
| Weight | Super-bantamweight |
| Height | 5’5½” (166 cm) |
| Turned Pro | February 12, 1997 |
| Net Worth | Estimated at $1 million |
| Salary | Varies per fight |
| Total fights | 58 |
| Relationship Status | Unknown |
| Instagram Profile | @beasugar |
Belinda Laracuente’s life reflects her dedication to boxing and her roots in Puerto Rico.
Despite challenges, she carved out an impressive career that earned her recognition in the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame.
Early Career
Belinda’s boxing journey began at age 12 when she was inspired by her brother Laureano, a boxer himself. Training at a gym in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, she quickly excelled and became one of the best amateur boxers in the country.
With a stellar amateur record of 22-2 and multiple titles under her belt, she moved to Miami in 1998 to pursue her dream of becoming a world champion.
Professional Career
Belinda Laracuente made her professional debut on February 12, 1997, defeating Karen Nye. Known for her technical skills and endurance, she faced some of the biggest names in women’s boxing.
Her career highlights include fighting Christy Martin on the undercard of Félix Trinidad vs. David Reid in 2000—a match many believed she won despite losing by decision.
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In 2007, she claimed the GBU World Super Lightweight title after defeating Melissa Del Valle but never defended it. Throughout her career, Belinda fought across the globe against notable opponents such as Layla McCarter and Esther Phiri.
Despite a challenging record of 26-28-3 (9 KOs), her contributions to boxing were recognized when she was inducted into the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame in 2018.
Belinda Laracuente’s Net Worth Details
Belinda Laracuente’s net worth is estimated to be $1 million as of 2025. This includes earnings from her boxing career and any other ventures post-retirement.
Fight Purses
| Fight Date | Opponent | Purse ($) |
|---|---|---|
| March 3, 2000 | Christy Martin | $7,000 |
| June 15, 2007 | Melissa Del Valle | – |
| February 7, 2008 | Holly Holm | – |
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Christy Martin | Loss (MD) | March 3, 2000 |
| Layla McCarter | Loss (UD) | Multiple bouts |
| Esther Phiri | Loss (UD) | December 1, 2007 |
FAQs
1. Who is Belinda Laracuente?
Belinda Laracuente, nicknamed “Brown Sugar,” is a retired professional boxer from Bridgeport, Connecticut, who grew up in Mayagüez, Puerto Rico. She is known for her technical skills and resilience in the boxing ring.
2. When did Belinda Laracuente start her professional boxing career?
She made her professional debut on February 12, 1997, defeating Karen Nye in Pennsylvania.
3. What is Belinda Laracuente’s boxing record?
Her professional record stands at 26 wins, 28 losses, and 3 draws, with 9 wins by knockout.
4. What are some of Belinda Laracuente’s career highlights?
She fought notable opponents like Christy Martin and Layla McCarter and won the GBU World Super Lightweight title in 2007. She was inducted into the International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame in 2018.
5. What is Belinda Laracuente’s fighting style?
She is known for her defensive skills, counterpunching ability, and movement, often frustrating opponents with her elusiveness.
6. Has Belinda Laracuente won any world titles?
Yes, she won the GBU World Super Lightweight title in 2007 but never defended it.
7. What is Belinda Laracuente’s height and reach?
She stands at 5’5½” (166 cm) with a reach of 65 inches (165 cm).
8. What challenges did she face during her career?
Laracuente faced controversial decisions in fights against top opponents like Christy Martin and Esther Phiri. Despite setbacks, she remained a respected figure in women’s boxing.
9. When did Belinda Laracuente retire from boxing?
She retired on June 22, 2012, after a bout against Jelena Mrdjenovich in Edmonton, Canada.
10. What is Belinda Laracuente’s legacy in boxing?
Her contributions to women’s boxing have been widely recognized, and she remains an inspiration for aspiring female boxers worldwide.
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