Mariana “Barby” Juárez — The Heart of Mexican Women’s Boxing
In the grand tapestry of world boxing, few figures embody longevity, grit, and cultural resonance quite like María Anastasia “Mariana” Juárez Trejo, known to fans simply as Mariana “Barby” Juárez. For more than a quarter-century, she has stood as a dominant force inside the ropes and as a symbol of perseverance and pride for a generation of Mexican athletes. Her career has stretched from the gritty gyms of Mexico City to the grand public plazas of her homeland.
Born January 29, 1980, in Santa Úrsula, Tlaxcala, Mexico, Juárez’s journey began in an era when women’s professional boxing was still fighting for respect and recognition. Undeterred by the doubters and obstacles of a male-dominated sport, she turned professional on May 22, 1998, knocking out Virginia Esparza in the second round; the first step in a career that would help redefine women’s boxing in Latin America.
A Long Road to World Glory
Juárez’s first world title came after more than a decade of persistence and evolution. On March 11, 2011, she captured the WBC female flyweight world title by defeating the previously unbeaten Italian Simona Galassi.
What followed was a remarkable reign. Between 2011 and 2012, Juárez defended the WBC flyweight championship seven times, showcasing a blend of technical precision and relentless pressure that frustrated opponents and thrilled fans alike. On October 13, 2012, her reign came to an end at the hands of American contender Ava Knight, who outpointed her in Mexico.
But Juárez’s story was far from over.
Reinvention and Dominance
Like the greatest fighters in history, Juárez understood that reinvention is the heartbeat of longevity. After several career turns and weight-class shifts, she rose once again; this time in the bantamweight division.
On April 1, 2017, in a historic open-air championship event at Mexico City’s Zócalo, Juárez claimed the WBC female bantamweight title with a unanimous decision over Zambian champion Catherine Phiri. It was a triumph of both skill and determination.
Over the next three years, Juárez defended the bantamweight title nine times, fending off a parade of challengers with sharp combinations, ring generalship, and that unmistakable Mexican fighting spirit.
Her reign ended on October 31, 2020, in Cancún, when compatriot Yulihan Luna earned a unanimous decision.
A Legend Outside the Ring
Juárez’s impact extends far beyond her record. In a sport where opportunities for women were limited and often undervalued, she blazed a trail that inspired thousands; particularly across Latin America, where traditional gender roles once discouraged women from stepping into the ring.
Her personal story adds depth to her public persona. As a single mother balancing parenthood with elite-level boxing, Juárez has often spoken about how her daughter Natasha became her driving force. “I have an extra engine called Natasha,” she once said.
She has also maintained a visible presence in Mexican media and popular culture, engaging audiences beyond boxing through television appearances and public outreach.
A Champion for the Ages
Mariana Juárez’s professional career spanned 25 years, she earned championship belts, and she had a role as a pathfinder for women in Mexican boxing, evolving into a global ambassador for the sport.
Today we celebrate the birthday of Mariana Barby Juárez.