Contents
Introduction
Nicolino Locche, a name that reverberates through the corridors of history, met an untimely end that left us questioning the mysteries of fate. In this article, we delve into the circumstances surrounding his passing and the legacy he leaves behind.
The Rise of a Boxing Legend
Born on September 2, 1939, in Tunuyán, Mendoza, Argentina, Nicolino Locche stepped into the ring as a force to be reckoned with. His boxing style defied convention, earning him the moniker “El Intocable”—The Untouchable. Locche’s mastery lay not in brute force but in his uncanny defensive skills. He stood before opponents with hands lowered, slipping, bobbing, and weaving to avoid their punches. His approach was both art and science, leaving spectators in awe.
The Silent Departure
On September 7, 2005, the boxing world mourned the loss of Nicolino Locche. His heart, once steadfast in the ring, failed him. The man who danced away from blows now faced an adversary he couldn’t evade. Locche’s death echoed the irony of his nickname—untouchable in the ring, yet mortal outside it.
A Champion’s Journey
Locche held the World Junior Welterweight title from 1968 to 1972. His defensive wizardry mesmerized fans, routinely filling the Luna Park arena in Buenos Aires. But his approach to discipline was unconventional. A habitual cigarette smoker throughout his career, Locche defied dietary norms. During breaks between rounds, he’d puff furiously, defying convention yet maintaining his enigmatic aura.
The Final Round
Locche defended his title six times, facing formidable opponents like Carlos Hernandez, João Henrique, and Antonio Cervantes. But on March 10, 1972, in Panama, Alfonso Frazier claimed the championship belt. Locche’s legacy extended beyond titles; he was a champion of Mendoza, Argentina, and South America. His professional record stood at 117 wins, 4 losses, and 14 draws.
Legacy and Reflection
Nicolino Locche’s name echoes through boxing history. His cause of death—heart failure—adds another layer to his mystique. As we remember the man who danced with shadows, we honor the enigma of his life and the legend he became.