Patricio Manuel (born Patricia Manuel; July 22, 1985), nicknamed "Cacahuate",[1] is an American professional boxer. In 2018, he became the first transgender boxer to fight professionally in the United States.[2][3]
Career
Manuel made his professional debut on a Golden Boy Promotions event on December 8, 2018 in Indio, California, scoring a four-round unanimous decision victory over Hugo Aguilar, with all three judges scoring the bout 39–37.[4] Aguilar only knew of Manuel's transition two days prior to the bout. He stated "For me it's very respectable ... It doesn't change anything for me. In the ring he wants to win and I want to win too."[5]
In September 2019, Manuel became the new face of Everlast boxing equipment.[7]
In March 2023, Manuel won his second professional bout against Hien Huynh by technical decision (cut caused by a headclash).[8]
In June 2023, Manuel participated in Golden Boy Fight Night where he won by unanimous decision against Alexander Gutierrez.[1]
In April 2024, Manuel participated again in Golden Boy Fight Night and was knocked out (TKO) after 21 seconds into the first round by his opponent Joshua Reyes.
Transition
Manuel identified as a man after being a five-time national amateur champion, as well as competing in the 2012 Women's U.S. Olympic Trials. Manuel was eliminated from those trials after being forced to withdraw due to receiving a shoulder injury. He began his transition with hormone treatments in 2013, and he had top surgery in Salt Lake City in 2014.[9]
Personal life
Manuel's mother, who raised him as a single parent with the help of his grandmother and uncles, is Irish American. His father is African American.[10] He now lives with his partner and their pit bull dog, Ginkgo.[11]
