(JUNE 19) On Tuesday, June 4th, the City of Raton honored two-time Women’s World Boxing Champion Terri “Lil Loca” Cruz. Citizens, family, and friends from Cruz’s hometown attended the event. Cruz retired in 2011 with a professional boxing record of 17-7-2. With 26 fights and 130 rounds to her resume, Cruz’s fought in Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, South Dakota, Nevada, Arizona, South Korea (on two occasions), Australia, and Germany.

Cruz’s won her first IFBA World Boxing Bantamweight Title in 2005 in a unanimous decision over Heather Percivil. Then, in 2008, Cruz won her second women’s international boxing title after defeating Jessica Mohs by technical knockout. In addition, Cruz is Colorado’s First International Women’s Boxing Champion.

Raton City Manager Richard Mestas said, “Raton is honored to welcome back one of its citizens for a long-overdue homecoming.” Mayor Neal Segotta presented Cruz with a proclamation and membership into an honor club that recognizes outstanding citizens and employees of the City of Raton for their accomplishments and community spirit.

Cruz also received her International Women’s Boxing Hall of Fame Boxing Ring, presented by her sister Brandi Cruz-Fernañdez, event organizer, and childhood friend Roger Rael. “It was a long time coming, and I am thrilled with the City of Raton and our sponsors, Trinidad National Bank, Bruno’s Pizza, the City of Raton, and private donors for taking the initiative to recognize this amazing woman and her accomplishments and contribution to the world of Women’s Boxing,” said Rael.

Special guest speaker and presenter Stephen Blea, WBC Referee and Judge who was recently inducted into the National Boxing Hall of Fame for 2004, was accompanied by a long-time sweetheart, Raelene, presented members of the City of Raton and event organizers with commemorative medallions for their partnership in recognizing Cruz. Zia Youth Center Director Linda Hadley, a key event sponsor, said, “The powerful message we are instilling in our youth today is that champions reside within each of us. We must persevere and not be intimidated by the size of our dreams or the effort our kids will need to achieve those dreams.”

The Raton community came together to celebrate Cruz's accomplishments, and she made a significant impact by donating sports equipment and books. Cruz engaged with attendees, leaving a lasting impression on the youth who aspire to follow in her footsteps. "I had a tough time growing up in Raton. I had to overcome several life-changing experiences to become a World Champion. I'm grateful for the opportunities that came my way when I started focusing on the things that matter. I want these kids to know they are in control of their destiny. If they want to succeed at anything, they must apply themselves, train, pray, train, and enjoy life because we're only here for a short while," said Cruz. To top off the special event, Cruz got the chance to celebrate her 53rd birthday with her friends and family, making it even sweeter than the icing on her birthday cake.

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