Rudy “Chucho” Hernandez recently made his pro debut. Hernandez kicked off his career on January 30 in Long Beach, California, at Thunder Studios, stopping 6’ 7” Jalen Davis by 1st round KO.
He affectionately goes by “Chucho” (slang for ‘Dog’ in Spanish). But perhaps “Lion” or “Tiger” would be a better moniker, as he comes at you with both speed and power.
If that last name rings a bell, it should, as he is the nephew of Genaro Hernandez, the late, great, celebrated world champion.
Genaro was an outstanding fighter who faced the likes of Oscar De La Hoya, Floyd Mayweather Jr., Jorge Paez, and Azumah Nelson, among others
The Hernandez family has been around boxing their whole lives, with Genaro and brothers Rudy, Joe, and Victor.
Rudy is a current trainer of many champions and contenders. Joe and Victor were also familiar faces in the corner of their champion brother, Genaro. So, it isn’t a surprise to see “Chucho” going into the family business with Uncle Victor and dad Joe behind the wheel.
If Genaro, who sadly passed from cancer in 2011, handed down any of his in-ring genes, we might see some great things from the next generation of Hernandez.
It was clear from the opening bell that this is a strong, aggressive fighter with a calm, cool demeanour for a young guy in his first pro bout.
“He can move for a heavyweight”, said Joe recently from Los Angeles. “He is strong and aggressive, and he has power”, he said.
While he is still in the very early stages of his career, Joe is excited to see him progress.
“He is still learning”, he said. “But, we hope to have him back in the ring soon, maybe in March, keep him busy”.
Reached after the fight, “Chucho” seemed pleased with his performance and was looking forward to his next assignment.
“I was more excited than nervous”, he said. “I was happy to get out there and show my skills, show what I can bring to the pro ranks”.
Asked what he thinks his greatest strength is, he was quick to recognize the mental side of the sport.
“I am small for a heavyweight and lots of guys will be bigger than me”, he said. “But, I feel my mentality and mental strength that I will be bring to the ring will truly help me. The mentality you bring is where it all starts”, he said.
If his debut KO is any indication of what is developing, South Central LA fight fans may have a new Hernandez to cheer on.
The name Hernandez is synonymous with boxing champions – the tradition continues.