On April 21, 2025, the sports world paused to mourn the loss of Pope Francis, who passed away at the age of 88. The Holy Pontiff left behind a legacy filled with moments that spanned across cultures, including the boxing ring—a place he notably touched through his interactions with athletes. One such memorable event occurred in May 2018 when legendary boxer Julio Cesar Chavez facilitated a unique moment of connection between young boxers and the Pope himself.
A Knockout Blessing
In an extraordinary video call that linked Mexico City to the Vatican, the revered Mexican boxing champion Julio Cesar Chavez seized the opportunity to have Pope Francis bless a group of aspiring young boxers. As the cameras rolled, Chavez expressed heartfelt gratitude for the Pope’s support of the sport, stating, “Thank you Pope Francis for supporting this beautiful sport that keeps young people away from alcohol and addictions.”
With a jovial air, Chavez gracefully handed the floor to the Holy Father, requesting the much-anticipated blessing: “Pope Francis, I want you to give us the blessing, please, so that we can all get rid of the devil,” to which the Pope could not help but burst into laughter, bringing joy to everyone involved.
Pope Francis: A Champion of Sports
Pope Francis’s passion for sports was well-known throughout his papacy. He frequently engaged with athletes and sports enthusiasts around the globe, receiving jerseys from various teams, including those from soccer clubs in Mexico. He often shared insightful messages, telling athletes, “May God bless you and accompany you in this project; always look towards the horizon, without mirages, as it is.”
Throughout his nearly 12 years leading the Catholic Church, Pope Francis exemplified a love for humanity that resonated far beyond faith. As an Argentine native, he was not only a devoted fan of the San Lorenzo de Almagro football club but also a dedicated supporter of the Argentine national team. Remarkably, the Pope chose a life without television, which meant he missed the thrill of witnessing Argentina’s triumphant finish in World Cup matches—choosing instead to focus on faith and personal connection with the world.
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