Eric Morel

Eric Morel was a native of Puerto Rico who chose to compete for the United States as an amateur, including at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Morel was the 1994 National Golden Gloves Champion, but went out in an early round at the Olympics.

Morel turned professional after Atlanta, and won his first 33 pro bouts, including claiming the WBA flyweight crown in August 2000 by decision over Sornpichai Kratingdaenggym. Morel defended the title five times but lost it in December 2003 to Lorenzo Parra. Morel then won a minor title, the NABO super-flyweight crown. In 2005 he fought for the WBA super-flyweight title but lost by decision to José Martín Castillo.

In February 2010, Morel faced Gerry Penalosa for the WBO bantamweight title and won by split decision. Morel fought through 2012, losing his final two bouts. He finished with a professional record of 46 wins (23 by KO) and 4 losses. As a professional he represented Puerto Rico.