David Jimenez

David Alejandro Jiménez Rodríguez (born April 15, 1992, in Cartago, Costa Rica), known as “Medallita,” is one of Costa Rica’s most accomplished professional boxers and a national sporting figure. A decorated amateur, Jiménez won bronze medals at the 2013 World Championships in Almaty and the 2015 Pan American Games in Toronto, achievements that put Costa Rican boxing on the international map. His technical skill, toughness, and aggressive style quickly made him a standout as he transitioned into the professional ranks.

Jiménez made his professional debut in February 2019, scoring a third-round knockout over Emmanuel Villamar, and rapidly built momentum with a string of stoppage victories. In June 2021, he claimed the WBA Gold flyweight title by stopping Edwin Cano in the third round, marking his arrival as a serious contender on the global stage. He followed up with important wins, including a majority decision over highly regarded contender Ricardo Rafael Sandoval in a WBA title eliminator.

In January 2023, Jiménez challenged long-reigning WBA flyweight champion Artem Dalakian in London, pushing the Ukrainian champion in a competitive fight before losing by unanimous decision. Though defeated, the performance solidified Jiménez’s status as a world-class fighter. He rebounded later that year by regaining the WBC Latino title with a stoppage win over Rosendo Guarneros.

On April 20, 2024, Jiménez achieved the pinnacle of his career, defeating John Ramirez by unanimous decision at Barclays Center in New York to capture the WBA super flyweight title. With that victory, he not only secured a world championship but also elevated Costa Rica’s presence in the global boxing scene, inspiring the next generation of fighters from his country.