Rafael Ruelas is a former professional boxer from Mexico, best known for his knockout loss to Oscar de la Hoya. Shortly after a TKO in 10 over Jorge P�ez in 1992, Ruelas earned a shot at IBF Lightweight Title Freddie Pendleton, overcoming an early knockdown and winning by unanimous decision. Ruelas was only able to successfully defend his title prior to being challenged by the rapidly rising star de la Hoya. De la Hoya defeated Ruelas, knocking him down twice and ending the fight in the 2nd round. Ruelas never recaptured his lost glory, winning fights over limited competition, including a decision over journeyman Livingstone Bramble, to set up a fight with the hard punching Kostya Tszyu in 1998. Tszyu battered Ruelas and won via TKO 9, and Ruelas's career ended shortly afterward. 

April 26th, 1971 in Jalisco (Age 52)