Lester Martínez has quickly risen to become one of the most exciting names in Latin American boxing. The Guatemalan fighter has built a 19-fight undefeated record in the professional ranks while holding regional titles like the WBC and WBO Latino super middleweight belts. His performances have placed him firmly on the global boxing map.

So what’s his story? What are his origins? Where exactly does Lester Martínez come from, and how did his roots shape the fighter he is today?

What is Lester Martinez’s ethnicity and nationality?

Martinez was born on 17 October 1995 in Melchor de Mencos, Peten. His family had to relocate to San Benito soon after, where he found his interest in sports. Regardless, his allegiance lay with his homeland, Guatemala. He won gold at the Central American and Caribbean Games and quickly grabbed the spotlight. After all, up until that point, it took 68 years for a Guatemalan boxer in the Central American and Caribbean Games to win a gold. 

Talking about his stance on representing his country, Lester Martinez once said, “At my young age, I’ve achieved many triumphs, and I want to dedicate them to Petén and Guatemala, places that have welcomed me. I know I have a long way to go; I’ll keep working to put my country’s name on the map.” And for that, he hopes to compete in the Olympic Games. 

The 29-year-old continued, “I’ve taken an important step in my career; I want to go to the Olympic Games. With hard work and dedication, you can participate in these competitions, and with conviction, we can emerge victorious.” And as time goes by, Martinez continues to claim wins and shine the spotlight on the blue and white colors of the Guatemalan flag. 

And what about the man himself, Lester Martinez? What was his childhood like, and did he start training from an early? 

More about Lester Martinez’s early life and background

Lester Martinez began his journey in boxing at a very young age of 12. His goal? It was to win medals at the national and international competitions. The boxer’s first big victory came in 2009, when he won the gold at the National Junior Championship. This led him to win another gold at the 2011 Junior Continental Championship in Ecuador. 

Reflecting on his rise in the world of boxing, Martinez once said, “I came from the bottom of my game. I’m grateful for many people who have been involved in this process, as I continue to grow. The key is to take it step by step; each person must know what they want and give their all.” 

Martinez has also won a few titles to his name. He secured the WBC Latino super-middleweight belt in 2020, and then came the WBO Latino super-middleweight title. Right now, he’s all set to face off against Christian Mbilli at Zuffa Boxing’s first-ever event. The duo will fight for the interim WBC world super middleweight title on the 13th of September. Who do you think has the better chance of winning the bout this Saturday night?