Rafael Oronó

Jesus Rafael Orono (born August 30, 1958) is a former boxer from Venezuela. He won the inaugural WBC super-flyweight title in 1980, thus becoming the very first champion in the division.

Amateur career Born in Patono, Sucre, Orono began as an amateur and compiled a record of 49 wins and 8 losses.

Amateur highlights Central American Games champion (Medillin, Colombia) Silver Medal "Copa de los Reyes" (Romania) Boxan Champion 1977 & 1978 Bronze at the Cordova Cardin, Cuba

Professional boxing career Orono turned professional in 1979. In his 11th professional fight the following year, the then-undefeated Orono captured the inaugural WBC super-flyweight title, winning a decision over Seung-Hoon Lee. He successfully defended his title three times, before losing it to Chul-Ho Kim in 1981 by KO. He recaptured the title in a 1982 rematch with Kim, winning by TKO. Orono defended his belt three more times including against Mexican challenger Raul Valdez, before losing it to Payao Poontarat by decision in 1983. In 1985, he took on WBA super-flyweight title holder Khaosai Galaxy, but lost by TKO. Orono retired from boxing in 1988.

Professional boxing record

After boxing In 2025, Orono was honored by the Venezuelan Sports Ministry. W.B.C. president Mauricio Sulaiman awarded him a new world championship belt as part of the ceremony.