Thursday, October 17, 2013

Middleweight champion Sergio Martinez presents title belt to countryman Pope Francis at the Vatican

Middleweight boxing champion Sergio Martinez (R) presents a title belt to Pope Francis at the Vatican (AP)WBC middleweight champion Sergio Martinez, a hero in his native Argentina for his boxing skills and humble nature, had the opportunity on Wednesday to meet Pope Francis at the Vatican.

Following his weekly address, the first Argentine pope met Martinez in St. Peter's Square. 

The two shook hands and spoke briefly, though there is no record of what either man said. 

Martinez presented the pope with a WBC world championship belt.

Martinez is known as one of boxing's good guys who works tirelessly to aid charities. 

One of his key initiatives is an anti-bullying initiative.

Martinez is injured and not expected to fight again until next year.