Filipina boxer Aira Villegas' performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics was nothing short of exciting. She defeated hometown favorite Wassila Lkhadiri in the quarterfinals via split decision, but narrowly missed out on a final ticket after bowing to Türkiye’s Buse Naz Cakiroglu in the semifinals. Nevertheless, Aira secured a bronze medal, officially becoming the second Filipino to win in Paris after gymnast Carlos Yulo.
For new fans of this phenomenal athlete, here are 10 fun facts you need to know about her.
Who Is Aira Villegas? 10 Facts About the Filipina Boxer
1. She is a Leo
Born on August 1, 1995, Aira is a Leo. Leos are known for their confidence, determination, and charisma, traits that Aira clearly displays in the ring.
2. She is from Tacloban City
A native of Tacloban City in the Province of Leyte, Aira moved to Manila to pursue boxing professionally. Her roots in Tacloban have always kept her grounded and motivated.
3. She began boxing at 9 years old
Aira started boxing at the tender age of nine when her older brother, Rominick, would train her just for fun. Rominick, a multi-titled boxer in their province, inspired Aira to follow in his footsteps and dream big, eventually leading her to the Olympic podium.
4. She began her amateur boxing career at 16 years old
At 16, Aira began her amateur boxing career by joining the Association of Boxing Alliances in the Philippines (ABAP) National Open in Tagbilaran City. Filipino boxing Olympian and Asian Games gold medalist Violito Payla saw her potential and brought her to Manila, where she trained with the national team.
5. She is a southpaw
Aira fights with a left-handed stance, making her a tricky and unconventional opponent. Southpaws are known for their unique style, often giving them an edge in the ring.
6. She's known to be family-oriented
Aira’s family has always been her greatest inspiration. From her brother’s influence to her family's unwavering support, their presence has been a driving force behind her success.
7. She loves coffee
A quick scroll through her Facebook profile reveals Aira’s love for coffee. Her story highlights are filled with photos of her favorite caffeine fixes at various coffee shops–an athlete’s got to fuel up for training, after all!
8. She’s a nature lover
Besides boxing, Aira enjoys the great outdoors. Her Facebook profile is brimming with pictures of her hiking adventures, showing her love for nature and staying active beyond the gym.
9. She studied at the University of Baguio
Aira is an alumna of the University of Baguio, sharing this alma mater with fellow Olympic athletes Carlo Paalam, Nesthy Petecio, and Eumir Marcial. Her time at the university helped shape her both academically and athletically.
10. She is a two-time bronze medalist
Aside from winning bronze at the 2024 Summer Olympic Games, she also won bronze at the 2019 SEA Games which was organized in the Philippines.
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