Nancy Yesenia Franco de Alba, known as Nancy Franco in the ring and nicknamed “Chatita,” has had an eventful boxing career, including winning a world title. Hailing from a boxing family in Guadalajara, Jalisco, Mexico, Franco was introduced to the sport at a young age, with both her father and brother competing as amateurs. With limited options outside of boxing, she embraced the sport and has now been a professional boxer for over 14 years. Determined to continue her journey until the age of forty, Franco is ready to revive her career when she faces amateur legend Christina Cruz at Sony Hall on August 10.
Early Success and Setbacks
Franco made her professional debut in November 2008, with a third-round victory over Araneli Luna. Within a short span of time, she moved up to the main event level, featuring in a ten-round bout in only her fifth professional fight. Opportunities came knocking early, as she competed for the WBC Youth minimumweight title in January 2011. Despite her efforts, she suffered a sixth-round stoppage loss to Ibeth Zamora Silva. Another chance for the same title presented itself 17 months later, but Franco fell short again, this time against Anami Torres.
However, Franco reached the pinnacle of her career in November 2013. She traveled to Japan and emerged victorious, capturing the IBF world minimumweight crown after a ten-round decision over Kayoko Ebeta. Unfortunately, her reign was short-lived as she lost the title to Victoria Argueta the following May. Nevertheless, Franco showed resilience and regained the belt in a rematch, winning a split decision in February 2015 and becoming a two-time world champion.
Continued Pursuit of Success
Undeterred by setbacks, Franco aimed to unify the championship and set her sights on the WBC 105-pound title. Although she faced defeat once more against Yuko Kuroki in Japan, Franco displayed her determination by moving up to the light flyweight division. There, she competed against renowned boxer Yesica Bopp and, shortly after, faced Seniesa Estrada at the L.A. Forum. Estrada, a WBC and WBA champion, proved a formidable opponent, and Franco lost via an eight-round decision.
Franco’s journey took another turn when she moved back down in weight for an opportunity to fight for the WBA 115-pound belt against Anabel Ortiz in July 2017. Despite her efforts, she faced another ten-round decision loss. Now, with seven defeats in her last nine bouts, including a stoppage loss to Adelaida Ruiz, Franco faces the challenge of reigniting her career. However, it is important to note that throughout her career, Franco has consistently faced world-class opponents, showcasing her willingness to take on the best in the sport.
Franco’s boxing style is characterized by her continuous forward movement and ability to counter punch effectively. Known for her sturdy chin and impressive stamina, she poses a legitimate challenge to even the most elite competitors. With a record of 19-17-2 (with 5 KOs), Franco has only been stopped inside the distance in three of her losses. Having gone eight rounds or longer on 15 occasions, her experience and endurance might prove to be pivotal factors in her upcoming bout against Cruz.
As Franco steps into the ring to face Christina Cruz, she is well aware of the importance of this pivotal moment in her career. Unlike many fighters who make empty claims about facing anyone, anywhere, at any time, Franco has consistently proved her bravery and determination by taking on world-class opponents throughout her career. A win against Cruz would be a monumental achievement, serving as a sweet victory for Franco, who coincidentally comes from a family of candy makers. With the revival of her career within reach, Franco is prepared to showcase her skills, tenacity, and resilience on her journey to reclaiming boxing glory.
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