The boxing community is deeply saddened by the loss of Alejandra ‘La Locomotora’ Oliveras, a revered figure in the sport from Argentina. After battling a stroke for two weeks, the former world champion passed away on Monday, July 28, at the age of 47.
Oliveras, hailing from El Carmen, Jujuy, was a pioneering force in women’s boxing. She made history by securing six world titles in five different weight classes, earning international recognition beyond Latin America.
Raised in a small village near Rio IV, Cordoba, Oliveras faced adversity early in life but used her hardships as motivation. She entered the boxing arena in 2005 and achieved a significant milestone in 2006 by becoming the first Argentine woman to win a world title overseas, defeating Jackie Navas in Mexico.
Throughout her career, Oliveras excelled in various weight divisions, claiming titles in super bantamweight, featherweight, lightweight, super lightweight, and super featherweight. Her exceptional accomplishments led to two Guinness World Records and induction into the Latin American Boxing Hall of Fame in 2024.
Despite enduring challenges, including early motherhood and domestic abuse, Oliveras exhibited remarkable resilience. Inspired by boxing icon Mike Tyson, she caught the attention of esteemed coach Carlos Tello, who honed her natural talent.
Oliveras gained national fame through memorable clashes with Marcela ‘La Tigresa’ Acuña and Lely Luz Flórez, captivating audiences at Luna Park in Buenos Aires. Her crowning moment arrived in 2006 when she clinched the WBC super bantamweight world title by defeating Navas via TKO in the ninth round.
While she faced setbacks, including losing her title to Acuña in a highly anticipated bout, Oliveras rebounded by establishing her legacy in the lightweight division. She defended her title against numerous challengers, solidifying her reputation as a formidable champion.
After retiring in 2019 with an impressive record, Oliveras shifted her focus to community service, founding Team Locomotora to offer free boxing training. She also advocated for social causes, including gender equality and combatting prejudice and violence.
The news of Oliveras’s passing has reverberated across the global boxing community, with the WBA expressing profound sadness at the loss of a champion they had honored multiple times. Remembered for her strength, both in and out of the ring, Oliveras leaves behind a lasting legacy and is survived by her two sons, Alejandro and Alexis.
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