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Writer's pictureYali Cristina

From Skateboards to Gloves: The Inspiring Journey of a Local Pro-Boxer, Alfredo " Durfo " Quiñones

Updated: Oct 3, 2023




A tale of unexpected triumph unfolded in a city nestled amidst the rolling hills of one of San Diego County's cities, Vista, where dreams were born and nurtured. This is the story of Alfredo "Durfo" Quiñones, a young boy who swapped his skateboard for a pair of boxing gloves, embarking on a remarkable journey from being an amateur boxer to a local pro fighter.


Alfredo's transformation from skater to pugilist was not merely a chance encounter. It was a destiny forged by years of determination, resilience, and an unyielding spirit that refused to settle for anything less than greatness. At the heart of this inspiring journey was his coach, Antony Cárdenas, a proud immigrant who relocated here with Cristina, with nothing but their dreams to live happily together and the will to succeed. He had boxing skills from his youth and experience as an amateur boxer in Europe, where he grew up.


Antony, a man of humble beginnings, had worked tirelessly to establish a prosperous life for himself and his family. He and his wife, Cristina, started a small boxing business from their garage, overcoming numerous obstacles. From envious rivals and sabotage from the boxing community as the unknown underdogs from another country and another state.


As the members summed up, so did Antony's passion for boxing, a sport he had loved since childhood. Soon, he found himself coaching young fighters, nurturing their talent, and guiding them toward a brighter future.


When fate brought Alfredo into Antony's hands, neither could have predicted the extraordinary journey that awaited them. The skater boy with wild hair and an infectious smile stepped into the world of boxing, and together with his coach, they embarked on a path they had never imagined.


Their journey was not without its challenges.

Alfredo had to undergo rigorous training, transforming his lean physique into a sculpted powerhouse of determination. He endured grueling workouts, pushing his body to its limits day in and day out. Alfredo's commitment and discipline became a testament to his unwavering desire to succeed in the ring. Despite taking a full year break from the spotlight due to the pandemic we all experienced, they pushed through!


Antony, the guiding light behind Alfredo's transformation, shared his own story of perseverance. Coming to a new country with nothing but hope, he overcame countless barriers to build a thriving community. He and his wife founded Savage Boxing Gym in 2018 with the assistance of their loving community and became respected community members. Now, as a boxing coach, he inspired numerous young athletes, showing them that dreams could be achieved with hard work, dedication, and unwavering belief in oneself.


As the years passed, Alfredo's talent blossomed, and he quickly made a name for himself in the amateur boxing circuit in Southern California. His agility and lightning-fast punches left opponents in awe, and he secured victories with the tenacity of a champion. Under Antony's guidance, Alfredo honed his skills, constantly pushing the boundaries of what he thought was possible.


With each fight, the bond between Alfredo and Antony grew stronger. They formed a symbiotic relationship, fueling the other's passion and determination. The community rallied behind them, recognizing their indomitable spirit and unwavering pursuit of excellence. Alfredo became a hero for his family in Carlsbad and, inspiring young dreamers who saw in him the embodiment of what hard work and resilience could achieve.


Today, Alfredo "Durfo" as his friends call him, stands proudly as a local pro-boxer, a testament to his unyielding spirit and Antony's unwavering belief in his potential. Their story serves as a beacon of hope for all those who dare to chase their dreams, regardless of the odds stacked against them.


In a world that often questions the power of dreams, Alfredo and Antony's journey reminds us that true greatness lies within, waiting to be unearthed. They

have proven that with determination, perseverance, and the guidance of a mentor, even the most improbable dreams can be transformed into reality.


So, let their story resonate in our hearts, urging us to embrace the unexpected and chase our passions fearlessly. In these remarkable journeys, we find our truest selves and inspire those around us to reach for the stars. Join us in Alfredo's second pro-boxing fight in Lake Elsinore on November 18, 2023.







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