Team Cardona

🥊 About Pito Cardona

The Heart of Hartford. The Pride of Puerto Rican Power. Israel “Pito” Cardona isn’t just a boxer—he’s a Hartford-born legend who carved his name into boxing history with blood, sweat, and sheer willpower. Raised in the capital city of Connecticut, Pito began his journey at Charter Oak Boxing Academy (COBA)—the very gym he now runs as Gym Manager, mentoring the next generation where his own career began. He turned pro in 1993 and quickly racked up an impressive streak—24 straight wins, 18 by knockout—setting the tone for a career built on pressure, precision, and power. Pito captured the IBO Super Featherweight Title in 1995 with a win over Jeff Mayweather, and later claimed the USBA Lightweight Title, solidifying his place as one of the best to ever lace up gloves out of Hartford. In 1999, Pito took on the undefeated Paul Spadafora for the IBF Lightweight World Title, a true clash of elite talent on the world stage. He finished his career with a record of 36 wins (28 KOs) and 10 losses, totaling 46 professional fights—not 60, but every one of them counted. He fought tough opponents, left it all in the ring, and earned a reputation as one of the most relentless, focused fighters of his era. After retiring from competition, Pito never left the ring—he simply changed corners. At COBA, he trains warriors the same way he fought: with discipline, heart, and an unshakable belief in hard work. His legacy was recognized in 2013, when he was inducted into the Connecticut Boxing Hall of Fame. Team Cardona isn’t just a name—it’s a movement built on respect, resilience, and real results. And at the center of it all is a man who never stopped fighting for greatness—Pito Cardona.