Luis Feliciano with his championship trophy.


MILWAUKEE - Just a sophomore, Luis Feliciano will represent the United States in an International boxing tournament in Azerbaijan.

Feliciano has won 40 out of 48 fights, all at different competitions: state, regionals and nationals. Last year Feliciano went to nationals for the sixth time, and placed second. He returns to nationals again in June.

 Boxing is a very competitive sport.

“To be in this sport you have to have heart,” Feliciano said.

“I have some cousins that started boxing, but they quit once they found out that it was not easy,” he added.

Feliciano started watching boxing on television when he was three-years-old; his first fight was when he was eight. Feliciano is Puerto Rican, and in Puerto Rico, boxing is a national sport. His dad and uncle got him involved in the sport.

Feliciano was inspired to box after watching Tito Trinidad fight.

“I loved the reaction of the people that cheered for him, and all of the support he had,” Feliciano said.

Feliciano started training at the United Community Center. “The UCC is the best boxing gym in the region, and many people go there to train and box,” Feliciano said.

Throughout his career, Feliciano had a lot of support from his coaches and family.

“[The coaches] are great guys and not only do they teach you the sport, but they also teach you about life. They are like father figures. They expect you to give it your all and to have a successful life,” he said.

His parents are big supporters of his boxing. His dad helped coach and his mom is there to take him to the gym and cheer him on.

After high school, Feliciano plans to go to college.

“I am very fortunate when it comes to boxing and college. Back then, universities did not give boxers any scholarships to fight, but now there are a few schools that offer assistance. I believe as the years go on, the number of colleges giving scholarships will start to increase,” Feliciano said.