After handing over his last world title belt to Josh Warrington in Leeds nearly three months ago, Kiko Martinez remains one of boxing’s most honorable figures outside the ropes. The sport still recognizes him as a champion, and the accolades keep flowing, the latest naming him the best male athlete in Elche.
Neither the punches nor the championships altered a rival whose ethics mirrored the discipline he brings to every training session and every ring entrance. Martinez speaks openly in interviews and doesn’t shy away from tough questions. Now 36, he pursues both revenge and honor — reclaiming a title he believes he didn’t lose and bidding farewell to the pinnacle moments that forged him as a fighter, a husband, a father, and a citizen of Elche.
Let’s begin with the award that graced his wall, the best athlete prize in Elche. It’s a comforting reminder of his roots and his ongoing impact on the city.
It’s remarkable that a 36-year-old remains the top sports figure in Elche. The recognition fuels anticipation and excitement for what lies ahead.
How does he view the remainder of his career?
Martinez envisions two more fights. His aim is clear: regain a world title and then perform one final bout in Elche. Time will reveal the path, but he trains consistently and stays focused on becoming world champion once more.
To reclaim a world title, it’s clear he must fight on the international stage where opportunities are earned — in arenas in England, the United States, or Japan. His creed has always been to prove he can win anywhere, and it’s a creed he expects to uphold as he ages gracefully.
Does tighter promotion for boxing in Spain influence his outlook?
From a young age, he dreamed of fighting for all of Spain, then for Europe, and finally for the world. He’s shaped by hard work, sacrifice, and a readiness to endure pain in pursuit of glory. He doesn’t seek easy routes and isn’t shy about aiming for trophies beyond his home turf.
Sensational Kiko Martinez
David Marin
Almost three months have passed since the Warrington bout. Do those moments still sting, or has time softened the impact?
Like many trials in life, the memory fades slightly, yet it remains a teacher. He believes forgiveness is essential, even when it’s not easy, because holding on to bitterness only hurts the sayer, not the final victor.
Does the public see him as the people’s champion after the Warrington clash?
Martinez often hears echoes of his status as a champion. Accepting it mentally has been a challenge, but he remains determined to be a world champion again before he steps away from this sport he loves.
What about life after competition — coaching, or running his own gym?
The immediate focus is still on championship glory. In the meantime, he supports and trains other fighters, and he contemplates what retirement will bring. He doesn’t want to become the cliché coach who never leaves the arena behind. He wants to retire on his own terms while preserving the drive that defined his career.
Is there relief in sight? Will Kiko Martinez’s legacy endure through a new generation?
There are strong allies in Spanish boxing. European champion Juanfe Gómez holds Elche in high regard, and Martinez has a nephew, Sergio Martínez, who has earned a place on Spain’s national team. The future will reveal how these bonds endure, especially after battles that tested their resolve and left a lasting mark on their eyes and ribs alike.
Closing the circle with the first question in mind, what does Elche and Torrellano mean on the world stage when Martinez represents them?
Martinez speaks with pride about his origins. He is investing in his hometown and intends to stay rooted in Elche and Torrellano. He wasn’t born there, but he has lived there since infancy, and his wife and daughter are locals. He carries those colors and that flag with deep pride wherever his career leads him next.