Senate Resolution No. 1114

BY: Senator GRIFFO

HONORING Rafael Marquez Mendez upon the occasion
of being inducted into the International Boxing Hall
of Fame on June 10-11, 2023

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to acknowledge
outstanding athletes who distinguished themselves through their
exceptional performance, attaining unprecedented success and the highest
level of personal achievement; Rafael Marquez Mendez is one such athlete
and his life of athletic achievements inspired others and contributed to
the respect and admiration of the sport of boxing; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to honor
Rafael Marquez Mendez upon the occasion of being inducted into the
International Boxing Hall of Fame at Hall of Fame Weekend on June 10-11,
2023 in Canastota, New York; and

WHEREAS, Born on March 25, 1975, Rafael Marquez Mendez is a former
Mexican professional boxer who competed from 1995 to 2013; and

WHEREAS, Having held many prestigious titles, Rafael Marquez Mendez
is a two-time world champion in two weight classes, having held the IBF
Bantamweight title from 2003 to 2007, the WBC, Ring magazine, and Lineal
Super Bantamweight titles in 2007; and

WHEREAS, In addition, Rafael Marquez Mendez held the IBO
Bantamweight title from 2005 to 2007, and challenged once for WBO
featherweight title in 2011; he was known for his formidable knockout
power and relentless pressure fighting style; and

WHEREAS, With him throughout, has been his older brother, Juan
Manuel Marquez, who is also a professional boxer and multiple-time world
champion and has felt privileged to be a part of his life and rejoice in
his achievements; and

WHEREAS, Rafael Marquez Mendez clearly made a contribution to the
spirit of excellence which is a tradition of the International Boxing
Hall of Fame; and

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body that when
individuals of such outstanding athletic accomplishments are brought to
our attention, they should be recognized by all the citizens of this
great Empire State; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
honor Rafael Marquez Mendez upon the occasion of being inducted into the
International Boxing Hall of Fame on June 10-11, 2023; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to Rafael Marquez Mendez.