Robert “Pikin” Quiroga became the International Boxing Federation Super Flyweight World Champion and successfully defended his title five times before retiring.
SAN ANTONIO — A blank wall at Rosedale Park has been transformed into a mural honoring San Antonio’s first world champion boxer, city officials announced Monday.
The 59-foot mural captures the life of Robert “Pikin” Quiroga, originally from the west side of the Alamo City. The artwork shows Quiroga as a young boy who gradually ages alongside friends and family.
During the height of his career, Quiroga became the International Boxing Federation Super Flyweight World Champion and successfully defended his title five times before he retired. He was also a graduate of Edgewood ISD’s Memorial High School and is remembered as a “loving and down-to-earth San Antonian.” Quiroga was tragically murdered in 2004 at the age of 34, prompting his younger brother Epifano “Epi” Quiroga to launch an antibullying initiative, SABULLYFREE, according to a press release from the city.
“The entire Quiroga family are pillars of the District 5 community, and integral to San Antonio’s westside,” District 5 Councilmember Teri Castillo said in the announcement. “The sport of boxing has brought our neighbors together and remains important to our community. It’s exciting to see this mural as a way to honor Mr. Quiroga and to share westside history.”
Local artist, Michael “Comp” Arguello was chosen as the artist and worked with the Quiroga family on designing the mural, using spray paint in an effort “to create lifelike and eye-catching portraits,” according to the release.
“This project is a beautiful testament of what is possible when City departments and Council districts listen to the community about the stories that are important to them,” Krystal Jones, Director of the Department of Arts & Culture said in the release. “We’re proud to have Mr. Quiroga’s story translated into a work of art that everyone can access, learn about, and enjoy.”
A pavilion in Rosedale Park near the mural also bears Robert Quiroga’s name and hosts community boxing events and matches within District 5.
“Gathering spaces like this are vital to communities,” Homer Garcia III, Director of Parks & Recreation said in the release. “They bring people and families together for special events and serve as the backdrop for lifelong core memories. We are honored to have an original mural by artist Mike Comp at Rosedale Park that celebrates Robert — a beloved member of this community.”
