WBC Unveils “Xicoténcatl” Tlaxcala Commemorative Belt: A Fusion of Boxing Glory and Ancient Heritage

The World Boxing Council (WBC) has created commemorative belts for May 5th and September 16th. These belts are special trophies that  are awarded to  the winners of significant fights held around these two important Mexican holidays, regardless of the contenders’ nationality.

World sports typically have specific dates for their most prestigious events, generating global anticipation. For example, football has the Super Bowl in February, baseball has its World Series in October, and the Football ( Soccer ) Champions League final in May.

Boxing holds a unique position, with two dates of peak activity: May 5th and September 16th, both commemorative dates for Mexicans.

The concept of these Special Belts originated in 2017. Since then, each year a different culture is chosen to inspire the belt’s design, representing a gift from the WBC and Mexico to the  world; Beautiful unique pieces of art honoring one of the many cultures from ancient years.

The World Boxing Council (WBC) proudly presents the “Xicoténcatl” Tlaxcala 2025 Championship Belt, a masterpiece of design and symbolism crafted by Imperio de Metal. This unique belt draws deep inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of Tlaxcala, honoring the spirit of a legendary warrior and the vibrant artistic traditions of the region.

This special belt will be awarded to the victor of the match between Mexican Saul “Canelo” Álvarez and Cuban William Scull, scheduled for May 3rd, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Saul “Canelo” Álvarez, the current World Boxing Council WBC, WBA, and WBO super middleweight champion, holds a record of 62 wins, 2 losses, 2 draws, and 39 knockouts. This fight marks his first participation in #RiyadhSeason.

William Scull, the undefeated IBF champion, has a record of 23 wins, with 9 of those being knockouts.

The design of the championship plate is rooted in the iconic mural of the Hombre Pájaro (Bird Man) from the archaeological site of Cacaxtla. This powerful figure, depicted with an avian headdress and in a ceremonial stance atop a feathered serpent, has been reinterpreted as an allegory for the combative spirit, transformation, and the connection between the earthly and the divine realms.

Just as the Hombre Pájaro embodies the duality of heaven and earth in Mesoamerican cosmology, the boxer symbolizes struggle, discipline, and the glory achieved through effort. This design pays homage to the cultural inheritance of Tlaxcala and the grandeur of boxing, seamlessly blending tradition and modernity into a visually striking piece rich in symbolism and strength.

Furthermore, this exceptional creation evokes the memory of the great Tlaxcalan warrior Xicoténcatl, an emblematic figure of indigenous resistance during the Conquest era. Son of the leader Xicoténcatl the Elder, this young warrior is remembered for his courage, dignity, and unwavering opposition to the alliance with Hernán Cortés, becoming a symbol of the defense of the sovereignty and honor of the Tlaxcalan people.

Thus, the WBC Tlaxcala Belt not only celebrates sporting glory but also stands as a piece of profound cultural significance, connecting popular art with the excellence of professional boxing. This belt serves as a powerful reminder of Tlaxcala’s rich history, the bravery of its people, and the enduring spirit of those who fought for their sovereignty.