The boxing career of Mariano Plotinsky, 35, appears to be over. The Buenos Aires native has been struggling with degenerative arthritis in his left elbow. He had surgery after his last fight, but the injury hasn't relented.
Nicknamed El Demoledor, Plotinsky has a background in various combat sports. In the boxing ring, he amassed a record of 16-4 with 8 KOs, employing a brawling style. Plotinsky first became a prize fighter at the improbably late age of 28. After dropping his debut, Plotinsky won his next seven fights. The light heavyweight beat Mariano Ruben Diaz Strunz by unanimous decision to win the Argentina title in October 2008.
After fighting his entire career in South America, Plotinsky traveled to Germany to face Thomas Ulrich for the vacant WBO Intercontinental title in March 2009. Ulrich had challenged for a world title on multiple occasions and Plotinsky entered the ring as a significant underdog. But Plotinsky captured the belt in his more renowned opponent's home country thanks to an 11th round knockout.
Plotinsky received a chance to challenge for the WBO light heavyweight championship of the world last April against the beltholder Jürgen Brähmer. In the face of an onslaught by the taller more skilled champion, Mariano never once took a backwards step, exhibiting admirable courage and heart. Because of the elbow injury, the Brähmer bout appears to have been his last.
In his retirement from boxing, Plotinsky, who is married with children, will continue to train prospects in combat sports. Best wishes to Mariano and his family.
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