Jose Antonio Rivera
Then: Professional boxer & court officer at Massachusetts Trial Courts
Now: CEO of Rivera Promotions Entertainment in Worcester, and assistant chief court officer at Massachusetts Trial Courts in Dudley
Shortly after being named to WBJ’s 40 Under Forty, Rivera won his third World Boxing Association Championship. In January, the welterweight nicknamed El Gallo finally capped a professional boxing career started in 1992 with his 50th fight at the Palladium in Worcester, winning a split decision to finish his career record of 43-6-1, including 25 knockouts. He dedicated his final fight and victory to the Boys & Girls Club of Worcester. As his career was winding down in 2017, he started Rivera Promotions Entertainment in a bid to help promote and revitalize professional boxing in Greater Worcester. In his day job, too, Rivera is advancing, having been promoted to assistant chief court officer, now serving at the Dudley District Court. – Profile written by Zachary Comeau
What is your proudest accomplishment? Becoming the first Latino from Mass. to win a world boxing championship and being the first (and only, so far) two-division World Boxing Association champion in Mass.
What did 40 Under Forty mean to you? It was an honor to be recognized for my hard work and accomplishments.
What advice do you have for this year’s winners? Believe in yourself! Work hard! Never give up!
The 40 Under Forty alumni Class of 2006
