Golden Boy Boxing: Juan Diaz Graduates University Of Houston
As most boxing fans know, when Juan “Baby Bull” Diaz wasn’t hitting opponents in the boxing ring, he was hitting the books at the University of Houston.
The former three-time world champion will close the college chapter of his life on Sunday, May 17, when he will receive the academic equivalent of a world championship title as he accepts a bachelor’s degree in Political Science during the University’s commencement ceremonies at Minute Maid Park in Houston, Texas.
“I’m very proud of Juan for what he’s accomplished and he remains a shining example of everything that’s right in this sport,” said Oscar de la Hoya, President of Golden Boy Promotions.
“He’s a champion in and out of the ring and a role model for every young person out there. On behalf of everyone at Golden Boy Promotions, we congratulate Juan on this outstanding accomplishment.”
“This feels like I’m becoming a world champion for the first time, it’s that big of an accomplishment to me,” said Diaz.
“After going through school all of the years, it feels like a huge burden has lifted off of my back. I’m going to take the rest of this year and next year to focus on boxing and see where it takes me, but I’m also going to take the LSAT review course and apply to law school so that I always have that as an option in the future.”
“When Juan turned pro, he made it clear he wanted to go to college and I insisted on it from the beginning,” said Willie Savannah, Diaz’s manager.
“I’ve always told him he could be whatever he wanted to be and I’m more proud of him than words can express. He has never slacked off from school and has continued to excel in boxing and school, breaking records in both. I love him like he’s my son and think it’s really important for all boxers to learn from Juan and to earn a college education so they have a plan after boxing is over.”
In addition to receiving his degree, Diaz was honored last week with an academic achievement award from the social sciences department at UHD for students who demonstrated scholastic excellence as well as a commitment to their field of study.
For more information on Juan Diaz and Golden Boy Promotions, please visit www.goldenboypromotions.com