Career
Canizales turned professional in 1984 and was undefeated in twelve fights (one fight was a draw) before meeting the 1984 Olympic gold medalist Paul Gonzalez in 1986. Gonzalez defeated him over twelve rounds. He retired after that loss.
He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame on July 14, 2009.
"Boxing has taught me a lot in life -- that dedication, discipline and determination will pay off in the long run and not to be easily swayed by obstacles and bumps in the road."
He was born in Laredo, the seat of Webb County in South Texas. There he began training at the age of ten at the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.
The Orlando & Gaby Canizales Boxing Gym and Community Center on Guadalupe Street in Laredo is named in honor of the boxing brothers. The facility was expanded in 2014.