Former WBA middleweight world champion Jorge Fernando Castro, widely known as “Locomotora” Castro, has died at the age of 59 after collapsing at a bingo hall in Morón, Argentina, on Wednesday, October 14, 2026. His death marks the loss of one of the most memorable figures in Argentine boxing, a fighter celebrated for his power, toughness and remarkable comeback victories.
According to reports, Castro suffered a drop in insulin levels associated with his diabetic condition. Emergency medical personnel responded after a call for assistance, but he died at the scene despite receiving medical attention and CPR. His daughter, Quimey Castro, was reportedly with him when the medical team arrived.
The Morón Prosecutor’s Office No. 8 is investigating the circumstances surrounding his death.
Who Was Jorge Fernando Castro?
Jorge Fernando Castro was an Argentine professional boxer who became a household name in his home country through his aggressive fighting style and impressive knockout record. Born on August 18, 1967, in Caleta Olivia, Santa Cruz, Argentina, he built a long career competing against some of the strongest middleweights of his era.
Known by the nickname “Locomotora,” Castro developed a reputation as a relentless competitor who could withstand tremendous pressure and remain dangerous even when a fight appeared to be slipping away from him.
His professional record included 144 fights, 130 victories, 11 defeats and three draws, with 90 of his wins coming by knockout. Those numbers reflect the durability and punching power that made him a significant name in international boxing.
Jorge Castro Won the WBA Middleweight World Title in 1994
Castro reached the peak of his professional career on August 12, 1994, when he defeated Reggie Johnson in Buenos Aires to capture the vacant WBA middleweight world championship.
The victory established Castro as a world champion and cemented his place among Argentina’s notable boxing figures. Winning the title on home soil also gave the achievement special significance for Argentine boxing fans.
However, it was his subsequent title defense against American boxer John David Jackson that would become the defining moment of his international career.
The Legendary Fight Against John David Jackson
On December 10, 1994, Castro defended his WBA middleweight championship against John David Jackson in Monterrey, Mexico. The contest later earned recognition as The Ring magazine’s Fight of the Year.
Castro struggled during the early rounds as Jackson landed damaging punches and caused swelling around both of his eyes. The Argentine boxer appeared close to defeat as he absorbed sustained punishment from his opponent.
But Castro refused to give up.
In the ninth round, he connected with a powerful left hook to Jackson’s chin, knocking him down. He followed it with further knockdowns, and the fight ended in a dramatic knockout victory for Castro.
The comeback became one of the most celebrated moments of his career, illustrating the determination and punching power that defined his reputation. For many boxing followers, the Jackson fight remains the defining example of why Castro was such a difficult opponent to put away.
Jorge Castro’s Boxing Legacy and Career Record
Castro’s legacy extends beyond his world championship and memorable victory over Jackson. His lengthy professional career featured numerous contests across different stages of his life, making him one of the more experienced fighters of his generation.
His career highlights include:
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World championship: Won the vacant WBA middleweight title in 1994.
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Historic victory: Knocked out John David Jackson in a memorable title defense later that year.
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Professional record: 130 wins, 11 losses and three draws in 144 fights.
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Knockout power: Recorded 90 knockout victories.
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National legacy: Became a widely recognized figure in Argentine boxing.
His willingness to keep fighting under difficult circumstances helped establish his reputation among fans who admired his resilience inside the ring.
Castro’s Life Beyond Boxing
In his later years, Castro also became known for charitable work in communities around Buenos Aires. He reportedly supported soup kitchens and community centers, particularly in Lomas de Zamora and Morón.
These activities offered another dimension to his public life beyond his achievements as a professional athlete. His involvement in community initiatives helped him maintain a connection with people outside the boxing world.
His death has renewed attention on a career defined by extraordinary determination, a world championship and one of the sport’s most memorable comeback victories.
Boxing World Mourns Jorge “Locomotora” Castro
Jorge Fernando Castro’s death at 59 brings an end to the life of a former world champion whose career left a lasting mark on Argentine boxing.
From winning the WBA middleweight title in Buenos Aires to producing a stunning knockout against John David Jackson in Mexico, Castro created moments that boxing fans would remember long after his final fight.
While authorities investigate the circumstances of his death, his achievements in the ring and his later charitable work remain central to his legacy.
For Argentine boxing, “Locomotora” Castro will be remembered as a fighter whose resilience, power and determination made him one of the sport’s most distinctive personalities.
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