By Rey Colon

An emotional Wilfredo "El Radar" Benitez, the youngest world champion in history (17 years) and the first three division Latin American world champion in history (140, 147, 154 pounds), could hardly believe the unveiling of a the statue in his honor at the Sports Museum in Guaynabo.

Benitez, who turns 54 on September 12 and whose health is impaired, became champion of the WBA at junior welterweight on March 6, 1976 - by winning a 15-round split decision over Antonio "Kid Pambelé 'Cervantes in Hiram Bithorn Stadium. One judge, Roberto Ramirez, favored him 147-142.

He finished his career with a record of 53-8-1 with 31 knockouts. He began in 1973 and stopped fighting in 1990.