Jackie Nava Ends Her Storied Career with Decision Over Yancaqueo
The career of Mexican fistic icon Jackie “La Princesa Azteca” Nava (40-4-4, 16 KOs) came to an end on October 1 as she scored a ten-round unanimous decision win over Argentina’s Gloria Elena Yancaqueo (10-12-3, 3 KOs) at the Auditorio Municipal Fausto Gutierrez in Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico.
It wasn’t the easiest of fights for Nava. She was slightly wobbled in round one and had trouble dealing with her younger, energetic opponent in the early rounds. But as the match progressed, the 42-year-old began to work her jab and land with combinations, piling up points. Nava tried for the finish in the last couple of rounds, but Yancaqueo was one tough cookie and was there until the final bell.
HER CAREER TIMELINE
“La Princesa Azteca” turned pro in 2001. She won her first world title in February 2005 with a seventh-round TKO over Martha Leticia Arevalo to capture the WBA bantamweight title. In her next fight in May 2005, Nava defeated Leona Browne to capture the inaugural WBC junior featherweight crown.
Nava has had numerous high-profile bouts and her share of setbacks. Her two fights with multiple-time WBC junior bantamweight champion Ana Maria Torres in 2011 are memorable with Mexican female fight aficionados. In fact, Nava was never able to defeat her rival, settling for a unanimous draw in April 2011 and losing a close unanimous decision loss in July of that year. Still, Nava continued to plug away. She went on to hold the WBC 122-pound women’s crown multiple times and had a lengthy reign as junior featherweight champ.
October 2021 saw her step in the ring with another female Mexican fighting legend, Marijuana Juarez. Despite the ladies being past their primes, Nava put on a show, soundly out-boxing Juarez to win by unanimous decision. But in August 2022, the Azteca Princess announced she was retiring following her fight with Yancaqueo. After a storied career, Nava has decided to hang up the gloves.
THE COMPLETE PACKAGE
What made her special was her outstanding skill and longevity. Comfortable in all areas of the ring with no real weakness, Nava was the definition of an all-around fighter. Her dedication and discipline were admirable. The longevity was amazing to witness as she continued to apply her trade at a high level, even in her elder years.
Arguably, Nava is the greatest women’s boxer that Mexico has ever produced. She deserves serious consideration for the Hall of Fame when she’s eligible. Whatever she decides to do from here is an unknown. We at 3Kings Boxing wish her the best in her future endeavors and salute her for what was an outstanding career.
By: Michael Wilson Jr.
